Connecticut Foreign Corporation
If you own a corporation based in another state and want to expand into Connecticut, you must file an Application for Certificate of Authority with the Connecticut Secretary of State. The state also requires obtaining a Certificate of Existence and appointing a local registered agent.
For just $149 plus state fees, you can hire us to register your Connecticut foreign corporation. We’ll file your Application for Certificate of Authority and provide a year of local registered agent service. You’ll also get lifetime business support from our team of experts, real-time annual report reminders, and immediate access to our library of Connecticut business resources.
Our Connecticut Foreign Corporation Service
When you hire us to register your foreign corporation, we’ll take care of the paperwork. And because we’re locals, our team understands all the ins and outs of maintaining and growing Connecticut businesses. But if you’d rather file yourself, you can still hire us for registered agent service (just $49 a year). Either way, we’ll be here to support your business every step of the way.
Do I need to register as a Foreign Corporation in Connecticut?
Probably. Connecticut doesn’t formally define what it means to transact business within the state. However, you will likely need to register your foreign corporation if your company:
- Hires Connecticut workers.
- Provides services or sells products to Connecticut residents.
- Owns property in Connecticut, such as a storefront or warehouse.
How do I register my Connecticut Foreign Corporation?
The easiest way to register your Connecticut Foreign corporation is to hire us. For just $149 plus state fees, we’ll file on your behalf. You’ll get local registered agent service, a secure online account, access to our library of Connecticut business forms, and lifetime support from our experts. But if you’d rather file yourself, follow the steps outlined below. Remember, you can still hire us for Connecticut registered agent service ($49 annually).
1. Get a Certificate of Existence.
Before registering as a foreign corporation in Connecticut, you must get a Certificate of Existence (or Certificate of Good Standing) from your home state. To get a certificate, you can contact the state department where you filed your initial incorporation documents. The fee will vary between states. For example, New York charges $75 and Massachusetts charges $65.
2. Complete a business name search.
You won’t be able to register your current business name if another Connecticut business is using the name. To see if your business name is available, you can do a business name search. If your name is unavailable, you will need to create a DBA (or alternate) name for your corporation.
3. Appoint a Connecticut Registered Agent.
Connecticut requires all corporations (foreign and domestic) to have and maintain a registered agent. Your registered agent must be a Connecticut resident (over 18) or a company authorized to provide registered agent service (like us).
You can act as your own registered agent, but you will risk your privacy. Unfortunately, the state requires listing your registered agent’s full name and physical address on your application, which is public record. When you hire us, we’ll list our Connecticut address instead of your personal information.
4. File an Application for Certificate of Authority.
Here’s a complete list of the information you must include on the Application for Certificate of Authority.
- Name and address of the person filing—this is where the state will send your confirmation.
- Legal name of your corporation.
- DBA (or alternate) name, if applicable.
- Corporation type—select “for-profit” or “non-profit.”
- State where you initially incorporated.
- Date you initially incorporated.
- Duration—if your corporation will close on a specific date, you must indicate that here. Otherwise, you’ll select “Perpetual.”
- Date you’ll begin transacting business in Connecticut.
- Principal business address (must be physical).
- Mailing address (street or P.O. Box)
- Business email address—you can select “none” if you don’t have an email address.
- NAICS code. To find your code, check the NAIC website.
- Officer and Director information—you must include the names and physical addresses of all current officers and directors.
- Name and street address of your Connecticut registered agent.
- Name and signature of the person filing your application.
- Certificate of Existence (attached).
You must file the Application for Certificate of Authority with the Secretary of State. The filing fee is $385. You can submit your application online, by mail, or in person.
Online:
Connecticut Online Business Registration
Mailing:
Connecticut Secretary of State
Business Services Division
P.O. Box 150470
Hartford, CT 06115-0470
In-person:
165 Capital Avenue, Suite 100
Harford, CT 06106
Why should I hire a Connecticut Registered Agent Service?
We’re local, so when we receive essential state or legal documents, we can upload them into your secure online account in real-time. For just $149 plus state fees, you get local expertise, lifetime client support, access to our library of Connecticut business resources, and annual report reminders. You’ll never be surprised by hidden fees or sudden price increases. We promise you won’t find a better deal.
Connecticut Foreign Corporation FAQs
How long does it take to register my foreign corporation?
The state typically processes online filings in 3-4 business days. Paper filings will take 3-4 weeks. If you need expedited service, you can pay an additional $50 for 24-hour processing.
How are corporations taxed in Connecticut?
Corporations that maintain their default tax status are taxed as C-Corps. So, your corporation will need to file taxes at the state and federal levels. In addition, C-Corps must also file a Corporation Business Tax Return (Form CT-1120), which is based on your corporation’s net income or capital base—whichever is greater.
Do I need to file an annual report?
Yes. All foreign corporations must file an annual report on their anniversary date. If you registered your corporation on April 25, 2022, your annual report would be due by April 25 each year. The filing fee is $435.