You may be required to file organizing documents with the South Carolina Secretary of State as a first step to starting your business. 

Who is required to file organizing documents with the Secretary of State? 

  • Business corporations
  • Nonprofit corporations
  • Limited liability companies (LLC)
  • Limited partnerships (LP)
  • Limited liability partnerships (LLP) 

Once you complete the online application, you should receive a copy of your Certificate of Existence (Certificate of Good Standing) within 24 hours. Out-of-state businesses will receive a Certificate of Authority. 

If you operate under one of the business structures listed above, this step is required prior to conducting business or obtaining a retail license in South Carolina. Sole proprietors and general partnerships do not need to file organizing documents with the Secretary of State.

Learn more about this process from the SC Secretary of State Office. 

This is NOT your local business license. You should apply for your local business license with the county and/or municipality where your business is located.

Registrations

File your organizing documents online with the Secretary of State's office ➡️

Call the Secretary of State's Business Filing's division (803-734-2158) if you have questions or concerns.

FAQs 

If your business is a sole proprietorship or general partnership, you are not required to file organizing documents with the South Carolina Secretary of State.

You can register your business online with the South Carolina Secretary of State.  You should receive your certificate within 24 hours if you complete the online application. 

If you print and mail in your application or submit it in person, it may take up to five business days to process. 

Filing organizing documents with the Secretary of State does not mean your business name is trademarked, or protected from use by others. Learn more about trademark information from the South Carolina Secretary of State.