Key Takeaways

  • Indiana requires foreign entities to register before doing business; banks and vendors may also require proof of registration even when state law wouldn’t otherwise trigger it.
  • File the Foreign Registration Statement (State Form 56369) online via INBiz or by mail; online filing is available directly through the state portal.
  • Typical filings include a recent Certificate of Good Standing (often within 60 days) from the home state and the appointment of an Indiana registered agent.
  • Current fees reflected in competitor materials: $105 online or $125 by mail for most entities; some sources note $125 for LLCs/corps and $75 for nonprofits—verify at filing because fees can change.  
  • After approval, Indiana requires a biennial business entity report every two years in your registration anniversary month; $50 ($20 for nonprofits). 

An Indiana certificate of authority is required by businesses incorporated in another state who wish to do business in the state of Indiana. By filing an Indiana certificate of authority, you will be registered in the state of Indiana as a foreign entity and will not need to form a new one in the state. Operating in the state without a certificate of authority can lead to penalties and fines.

When Would You Need an Indiana Certificate of Authority?

There are many reasons you will want to apply for a certificate of authority. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • When you are operating a location or an office in a foreign state.
  • When you are hiring an employee who resides within that state.
  • Before starting a job or a contract in that state.
  • To be able to open a bank account.
  • To be able to work with certain vendors.
  • To satisfy any licensing requirements.

What usually triggers registration (general guidance)

States use “transacting business” tests; physical presence (e.g., an office, warehouse, or in-state sales reps) commonly triggers foreign qualification. Treat these as red flags to review Indiana’s rules for your facts.

Third-party requirements you might encounter

Banks, vendors, and other counterparties often insist on a certificate of authority Indiana filing before opening accounts or contracting—even if your activities don’t otherwise constitute “doing business” under state law. Plan ahead in bid/contract scenarios and banking setups.

How Long Does It Take and How Much Does It Cost to Process an Indiana Certificate of Authority?

The processing times and state fees will largely depend on the type of entity that you are filing for. Some approximate turnaround times and fees are broken down below.

  • Limited Liability Company: 2 business days; approximate cost of $105.
  • Corporations: 2 business days; approximate cost of $105.
  • Nonprofit Corporations: 2 business days; approximate cost of $41.

Current state filing fees & channels

  • Filing method: Online via INBiz or by mail.
  • Agency fee (most entities): $105 online or $125 by mail.
  • Alternative competitor figure: Some sources cite $125 for LLCs/corporations and $75 for nonprofits. 

Fees change periodically; confirm amounts in the INBiz system at the time of filing.

How Do You Get an Indiana Certificate of Authority?

To obtain your certificate, you will need to submit an Application for Certificate of Authority. This will need to be included with any required certificates from your home state. Once you have filled out your application, you will need to appoint a registered agent authorized to do business in Indiana. Make sure the instructions are followed carefully as errors can result in rejections.

Name availability and DBAs

Before filing, check whether your legal name is available in Indiana. If it’s already taken, you’ll likely need to register an assumed name/DBA to proceed with qualification.

Use State Form 56369 (Foreign Registration Statement)

Indiana uses a single form across entity types—Foreign Registration Statement (State Form 56369)—which you can file online through INBiz or by mail. The online path is typically the most convenient and helps avoid common errors.

What Documentation Do You Need From Your Home State?

One of the home state documents you will need to submit with your application includes a certificate of existence of your business entity that has been dated within the past 60 days.

Certificate of Good Standing Timing

Indiana filings commonly require a Certificate of Good Standing (a/k/a Certificate of Existence) from your home state that’s dated within 60 days of your application. Order this early so it doesn’t expire before you submit.

What Is a Registered Agent?

A registered agent is a person who will receive service of process and other government notices on behalf of your business. On your application for an Indiana Certificate of Authority, you will need to include the registered agent's name and physical address where they will be available to receive important documents during regular business hours.

What Is the Contact Information for the State of Indiana?

  • Physical Address: Indiana Secretary of State - Business Services Division, 302 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN
  • Phone: Corporations Information Line: 317-232-6576
  • Fax: 317-233-3387

How Do You File for a Profit or Non-Profit Corporation Online?

You can file for your certificate yourself or have an attorney do it online by following the steps listed below.

  • Create an account with the Secretary of State to access the portal. You can review the online tutorial for instructions and, once completed, sign in.
  • On the left-hand side of the screen, select the Online Services tab.
  • Choose Secretary of State Business Service Division and then Out-of-State Business.
  • Click on the Business Formation link.
  • Select the type of entity you are filing for.
  • Enter your business name and check availability.
  • Enter all of the requested business details that are listed on the screen. This will include basic contact information as well as some additional, more detailed questions.
  • Provide the information for your registered agent, including their name and physical address.
  • List the name and address of each incorporator, including name, address, and contact information.
  • If you are a non-profit, you will need to enter the information of each principal.
  • Add any other information you would like to include in your application.
  • Review all the information on the screen and check for accuracy.
  • Check all red highlighted boxes and then enter your name in the virtual signature.
  • Click Add Payment to Cart.
  • Your filing fee will be listed on the page. For-profit corporations will be $105, and non-profits will have to pay $40.
  • Indicate the method of payment you choose from the drop down, and enter your payment details.
  • Click to the final page where you will submit your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How much does it cost to file a certificate of authority in Indiana?
    Most sources show $105 online or $125 by mail for LLCs/corporations; some note $125 for LLCs/corps and $75 for nonprofits. Verify in INBiz at filing time.  
  2. What form do I file?
    Use State Form 56369 (Foreign Registration Statement); you can submit it online through INBiz.
  3. What home-state documents are required?
    A Certificate of Good Standing from your home state, typically dated within 60 days of filing.
  4. Do I need a registered agent in Indiana?
    Yes. The agent must have a physical Indiana street address (no P.O. Boxes) and be available during business hours to accept legal papers.
  5. What ongoing reports are required after approval?
    A biennial report is due every two years in your registration anniversary month; the fee is $50 (or $20 for nonprofits).

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