Jake Lawson here. Connecticut does something odd—they only mail you formation documents if you file online, not by mail. Don’t worry, I’ll show you how to get the copies you actually need without wasting money on the wrong type.
Connecticut’s Quirky Document Policy
Filed online? You’ll get an emailed copy of your approved Certificate of Organization.
Filed by mail? You get nothing automatically. You have to request copies separately.
Why Connecticut does this: Nobody knows. It’s one of those state government mysteries that makes no logical sense.
The reality: Most banks, lenders, and business partners want official state documents regardless of how you filed. So you’ll likely need to order copies anyway.
When You Actually Need Certificate Copies
Required for:
- Opening business bank accounts (every bank wants this)
- Applying for business loans or credit lines
- Signing commercial leases (landlords love official paperwork)
- Foreign LLC registration in other states
- Investor due diligence (they want to see state filing proof)
- Legal proceedings where LLC status needs verification
Not Usually Required for:
- Basic business operations (day-to-day stuff)
- Tax filing (IRS uses your EIN, not state documents)
- Simple vendor relationships
- Basic insurance applications
Jake’s rule: When in doubt, ask specifically what they need before ordering copies. You might save yourself $40-55.
Connecticut’s Two-Tier Pricing System
Plain Copy ($40)
- What it is: Basic photocopy of your filed Certificate
- Includes: File number and basic state information
- Missing: Official state seal or authentication
- Good for: Internal records, informal verification
Certified Copy ($55)
- What it is: Official state document with seal and authentication
- Includes: Everything a plain copy has PLUS official state certification
- Authentication: Embossed seal, official signatures
- Good for: Banks, courts, legal matters, anything requiring “official” documents
My recommendation: When in doubt, spend the extra $15 for a certified copy. Here’s why…
Why I Almost Always Recommend Certified Copies
Real client experience: One of my Connecticut clients ordered a plain copy to open a business account at Webster Bank. The bank rejected it and required a certified copy. Total cost: $95 plus two weeks of delays.
The acceptance reality:
- Certified copies: Accepted everywhere, always
- Plain copies: Sometimes accepted, sometimes rejected
When to save money with plain copies:
- You specifically confirmed the requester accepts plain copies
- Internal company records only
- Backup documentation when you already have certified copies
When to spend extra for certified copies:
- Banking relationships (they’re picky about documentation)
- Legal matters (courts want official documents)
- Out-of-state business (other states prefer certified documents)
- Uncertain requirements (better safe than sorry)
How to Order Connecticut Certificate Copies
Method 1: Mail Ordering (Most Common)
For Plain Copies ($40):
- Download the plain copy request form from Connecticut Secretary of State website
- Complete all required fields (LLC name, file number if known, contact info)
- Prepare payment: Check or money order for $40 payable to “Secretary of the State”
Mail everything to:
Business Services DivisionConnecticut Secretary of the StatePO BOX 150470Hartford, CT 06115-0470
For Certified Copies ($55):
- Download the certified copy request form (different form than plain copies)
- Complete all required fields
- Prepare payment: Check or money order for $55 payable to “Secretary of the State”
- Mail to same address as above
Jake’s mailing tips:
- Send via certified mail with tracking
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want faster return
- Keep copies of everything you send
Method 2: Fax Ordering (For Credit Card Payments)
When to use fax ordering:
- You don’t want to wait for mail processing
- You prefer credit card payments over checks
- You need slightly faster turnaround
Process:
- Download the fax filing service request form
- Complete form with credit card information
- Fax to: 860-509-6069
- Important: Documents are still mailed back—Connecticut won’t fax copies to you
Fax ordering limitations:
- Credit card processing fees may apply
- Still takes same processing time (3-5 days)
- Documents returned by mail only
Timeline and Processing Expectations
Standard Processing:
- Mail/Fax processing: 3-5 business days
- Total turnaround: 7-10 days including mail time
- Rush options: Not available from Connecticut
Planning Ahead:
For bank account opening: Order copies 2 weeks before your planned banking visit
For lease signing: Request copies when you start looking for space
For investor meetings: Have certified copies ready before due diligence begins
My experience: Connecticut is actually pretty reliable with their timeline. It’s rare to see delays beyond 5 business days for processing.
Money-Saving Strategies
Order Multiple Copies at Once
If you need copies for multiple purposes, order 2-3 certified copies in one request. Most Connecticut businesses eventually need multiple copies anyway.
Digital Backups
Scan your certified copies immediately when they arrive. High-quality digital copies work for many informal purposes and save you from ordering additional copies later.
State vs. Formation Service Copies
Some formation services charge $100+ for what Connecticut provides for $55. Always check if you can order directly from the state first.
Timing Your Orders
Don’t order copies until you actually need them. Certificate requirements can change, and you don’t want outdated documents sitting around.
Common Connecticut Certificate Mistakes
Mistake #1: Ordering Wrong Copy Type
Problem: Ordering plain copy when certified is required
Solution: Always ask the requester which type they need
Cost: Extra $40-55 plus delays
Mistake #2: Incomplete Request Forms
Problem: Missing LLC name, file number, or contact information
Solution: Double-check all fields before mailing
Cost: Processing delays and potential rejections
Mistake #3: Wrong Payment Method
Problem: Personal checks when they require money orders
Solution: Check payment requirements on current forms
Cost: Returned requests and restart processing
Mistake #4: Not Keeping Originals Safe
Problem: Losing certified copies and having to reorder
Solution: Store originals securely, use copies for routine purposes
Cost: $55 per replacement copy
What to Do If You Have Problems
If Your Order Is Delayed:
- Wait 10 business days before contacting Connecticut
- Call 860-509-6002 during business hours (8 AM – 4:30 PM, M-F)
- Have your request information ready (date sent, payment amount, LLC name)
If Your Copy Is Rejected:
- Ask specifically why it was rejected
- Determine if you need certified vs. plain
- Check if they need additional authentication
If You Can’t Find Your LLC:
- Double-check spelling of your LLC name
- Try searching without “LLC” designator
- Contact Connecticut if still not found
Alternative Documentation Options
When Certificates Aren’t Required:
Sometimes requesters accept alternative documentation:
- Articles of Organization (your original filing)
- Good standing certificates (shows current status)
- Operating agreements (for internal verification)
For Ongoing Compliance:
Consider whether you need:
- Good standing certificates for certain transactions
- Annual report confirmations for compliance verification
- Amendment certificates if you’ve changed LLC details
Planning for Future Needs
Keep a Certificate Inventory:
- 2-3 certified copies for important matters
- Digital scans for routine documentation
- 1 plain copy for internal records
Update When LLC Changes:
If you amend your LLC (name change, address change, etc.), you’ll need new certificates reflecting current information.
Multi-State Considerations:
If you plan to do business in other states, those states may require Connecticut certificates for foreign LLC registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Do I need a certificate copy if I filed online?”
Maybe. You got an emailed copy, but banks and lenders often want certified copies from the state.
“Can I use a photocopy of my certified copy?”
Depends on the requester. Some accept copies, others require originals. Always ask first.
“How long are certificate copies valid?”
Indefinitely, unless you amend your LLC. The certificate shows your formation information, which doesn’t expire.
“Can I order copies of amendments?”
Yes. Any document filed with Connecticut can be copied using the same process and fees.
The Bottom Line: Plan Ahead and Choose Wisely
Connecticut’s certificate copy process is straightforward—if you know what you need.
My systematic approach:
- Determine exact requirements before ordering
- Choose certified copies when uncertain
- Order multiple copies if you’ll need them for different purposes
- Keep originals secure and use copies for routine needs
Budget planning: $55 for one certified copy, $110-165 if you need multiple copies for different purposes.
Time planning: Allow 2 weeks from order to having copies in hand.
Need help with other Connecticut LLC requirements? Check out my complete Connecticut formation guide and compliance checklist. I’ve guided over 1,200 entrepreneurs through U.S. business formation—including navigating Connecticut’s unique quirks.
Jake Lawson
LLC Formation Strategist
Independent. Unbiased. No upsells. Ever.
P.S. Connecticut actually has one of the more efficient Secretary of State offices. Once you know their process, getting copies is pretty painless compared to some other states I could mention.