Foreign qualification with the Secretary of State in Vermont is the process by which a business that was originally formed in another state obtains permission to operate in Vermont. This allows the business to legally conduct operations in Vermont and ensures compliance with state laws and regulations.
Follow the guide below to help you register with the Secretary of State in Vermont or use Mosey to do it.
Use Mosey to register with the Secretary of State in Vermont.
Avoid the hassle of doing it yourself and use Mosey to automate foreign qualification, annual reports, and registered agent service.
Vermont Foreign Registration for LLC, LLP, Corporation
Foreign entities "doing business" in Vermont must register with the State's Secretary of State by applying for a certificate of authority. "Doing business" is defined by the Vermont Secretary of State as "each act, power, or privilege exercised or enjoyed by a foreign entity in this State," (11A V.S.A. § 15.01).
Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing
Vermont requires that the Certificate of Good Standing (or equivalent) from your home state be within 30 days for corporations and nonprofits or 90 days for limited liability companies from filing. Note: Limited liability partnerships are not required to provide a certificate.
Establish a Registered Agent
You must continually maintain a registered agent in Vermont to accept service of process at your registered office in Vermont. The registered agent must also sign a written consent to the appointment.
Apply for a Certificate of Authority Online
Create an account at the Secretary of State's Online Business Service Center and file for a certificate of authority.
What else do I need to know?
Once you are registered with the Secretary of State, you may have additional requirements to maintain your "good standing" in the state. Failing to do so can result in fines, back taxes, and forfeiting certain priveleges within the state.
Maintaining a Registered Agent
Most states require that you have a registered agent that can receive important mail from the Secretary of State should they need to contact you. There are many commercial options available or you can use Mosey to be your registered agent and keep your information private in Vermont.
Annual Reports and Taxes
In addition to maintaining a registered agent, most states require you to file a report annually. Registration can also trigger state taxes such as a franchise tax or income tax. You can use Mosey to identify these additional requirements to maintain good standing in Vermont.
