Business Programs

News and Notices

Customer Alert – Misleading Business Solicitations: Certain private companies have been soliciting business through mass mailings to corporations and limited liability companies, implying the entities must go through a private, third party vendor – and pay an exorbitant fee – in order to file a Statement of Information or termination document with the California Secretary of State.

Change to Certified Copies: To improve services and reduce expenses, the Business Programs Division (except Uniform Commercial Code Section) has changed the process for providing certified copies of filed documents. (pdf ~42KB)

Increased Processing Times: The time to process filing and information requests at the Secretary of State's office has increased due to budgetary cutbacks. (pdf ~52KB)

Business Entities – Forms, samples and fees, name availability information, information requests (certificates, copies and status reports)

Notary Public – Notary public commissions, education, handbook, disciplinary guidelines, seal manufacturers

Uniform Commercial Code – Forms and fees, information requests, liens, Revised Article 9

Authentications: Apostille or Certification – Authentication of public official signatures on documents to be used outside the United States

Special Filings – Immigration consultant and various other bonds, joint powers, successor-in-interest, statement of facts - roster of public agencies, athlete agents

Trademarks and Service Marks – Registration of trademarks and service marks, container brands, laundry marks and the names of farms, ranches, estates or villas

Victims of Corporate Fraud Compensation Fund – Restitution to victims of corporate fraud