How can I get proof my company exists? There are 2 main reasons to prove that a business exists and also several ways to provide that proof.
The first is to prove it legally exists, and the 2nd is to prove it is active and generating revenue.
Consider 7 ways below to prove your business exists legally and also that it is operating with sales. Then use it to get funding or contracts and establish vendor relationships.
To prove your business exists for financing such as business cash flow loans, apply below now! Verify it. Don’t get your request killed before closing.
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How can I show proof my business exists?:
1. Corporations.
Corporations provide their Articles of Incorporation. There are different types of corporations, so the names of the documents will be different depending on the type.
They are registered at the Secretary of State for each state. Since annual updates are filed, articles for the first year and the current year can be provided as both proof of existance, and time in operation.
2. Sole Proprietors
Sole proprietors will need to provide a copy of a business license. Owners must get a business license either with the city, county, or State. Check on local requirements.
Some localities require more than a local license. For example, a City and State both may require registration. Check locally first to learn how you must register in your area.
3. Partnerships.
Partnerships usually need to show a partnership agreement. They also are filed with the Secretary of State. They usually list how much each partner owns.
4. Through Tax Returns
Tax returns prove your company has been paying taxes under a company name.
As a result, most lenders and other organizations will accept company tax returns as proof it legally exists.
5. Pictures of Location
Businesses with a physical location can provide pictures of their location. Retail stores and similar companies can take pictures of the inside of the business during operating hours.
Lenders wanting proof your company exists may accept pictures. They may also require a physical site inspection of the premises for loans higher than a certain dollar amount.
Online Evidence
A website, facebook page, instagram, and other online presence may be used and accepted in part as proof a business exists. Businesses that are not real usually have limited or no online presence.
An extensive online presence often proves significant and active operations.
Customer Contracts
Customer contracts can prove you are operating. As an example, these can be work or vendor contracts.
6. Lease Agreement
Current location lease agreements are another way to prove your company is valid and open.
Call the landlord. They can confirm the lease agreement and the landlord can also be a witness that your company is active and rent is current.
7. Payroll Documentation
Companies with employees have payroll records they file with the city or state, or both. These are official records that prove the company is active and operating, so they can be provided to prove active operations. Some companies also have difficulty paying employees consistently and need money for payroll.
The 7 ways stated here answer the question: how can I prove my business exits? Pick the most appropriate ways listed above and satisfy anyone requesting confirmation of your business.
FAQ: How can I show proof my business exists?
How can I prove it?
Provide Articles of Incorporation for Corporations and a Business License for Sole Proprietorships. Partnerships should provide a partnership agreement.
Can I get a business loan operating under my own name?
No. The loan contracts are invalid since the business is not registered. As a result, lenders will not approve a request.
Do I have to get a business license?
You must get some type of license or articles of incorporation or your company does not legally exist. It does not matter if the State does not require a license and you have been operating the company without a license.
Conclusion
Companies must show proof of existance for business loans, vendor contracts and many other activities. Sometimes they must also prove their time in business, which is not as easy.
Submit the original documentation you provided to the State when you opened as well as for the current year. This proves it exists legally and how long since the start. Both are important.
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