What types of business entities file documents with the Secretary of State?
Corporations*
Limited Liability Companies (LLC’s)*
Limited Partnerships (LP’s)*
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP’s)*
General Partnerships+
*All of the above business entities file formation documents.
+Filings by general partnerships are not for the purpose of forming or maintaining a general partnership in Tennessee. Document filing is for the purpose of providing public notice of basic information about a general partnership, such as the agency authority of its partners, and such filings are optional and voluntary.
How do I change my business address?
You can file form SS-4800 to change the mailing address by mail or in person. A change in Registered Agent or principal address requires filing Articles of Amendment and paying the statutory $20 filing fee. Forms can be found on our the Forms & Fees page for mail and in person filings.
Where can I get a Student Edition of the Tennessee Blue Book?
An Administrative dissolution occurs for the following reasons:
Failure to file an annual report
Being without a registered agent
A foreign entity fails to maintain its assumed name due to a name conflict
Returned payment by a financial institution
How can I receive a Tennessee Blue Book if I live in a different state?
Tennessee Blue Books are subject to availability to out-of-state residents and may not be readily available upon initial release.
Please note if you live out-of-state and fill out a request form online, your request may be delayed to ensure availability to Tennessee citizens. Since the Tennessee Blue Book is released in the spring, we recommend waiting until the end of the year to inquire about availability.
What is a Certificate of Existence?
A certificate of existence is a document issued by our office that certifies that an entity is active and in good standing.
Is Training available for Application Assistants?
Training is available via WebEx. Please contact Safe at Home directly for scheduling.
What is an Assumed Name?
An assumed name is a name other than the true entity name under which it conducts business. Tennessee does not recognize 'DBAs' (doing business as) or fictitious names. The assumed name is good for 5 years and can be renewed.
What is an Incorporator?
The incorporator is the person that files the charter of the corporation. The incorporator must be of legal age to enter into contracts. Once the charter has been filed, the incorporator’s function is complete.