Reinstate a Business in Washington | A Step-by-Step Guide

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Reinstate Washington Business

Running a business or forming an LLC in Washington can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. When operating a business, unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to the suspension or dissolution of the entity. If your business has been suspended or dissolved in Washington, you do not need to worry. This guide will provide a step-by-step process to Reinstate your Business in Washington and get back on track.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you easily reinstate your Washington business. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Reinstate a Business in Washington

Understanding Dissolution and Suspension

Before diving into the reinstatement process, it’s essential to understand the difference between dissolution and suspension.

Dissolution

Dissolution is the legal termination of a business entity. This can happen voluntarily by the owners or involuntarily by Washington due to non-compliance with state laws and regulations. When a business is dissolved, it must cease all operations and settle outstanding debts and liabilities.

Suspension

The state can suspend a business entity for various reasons, such as failing to file Annual Reports or paying taxes. When a business is suspended, it loses its right to conduct business within Washington, and the owners may be personally liable for any debts or liabilities incurred during the suspension period. Hiring a Registered Agent for your documents to be compliant is very important. You could check out the Best Washington Registered Agent Services in Washington.

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How to Reinstate a Business in Washington

In Washington, reinstating your business needs a lot of preparation, more specifically if it is located in Olympia. To be aware and prepared, we have gathered information on the steps to reinstate your Washington business. If it is manageable to Dissolve a Business in Washington, it is also bearable to reinstate your Washington business. Keep in mind that you should follow the mentioned steps below. 

Step 1: Determine the Reason for Suspension or Dissolution

The first step in reinstating your Washington business is determining why it is suspended or dissolved. This information can be found in the notice issued by Washington or by contacting the Washington Secretary of State. Common reasons for suspension or dissolution include:

  • Failure to file Annual Reports
  • Failure to pay taxes or fees
  • Failure to maintain a Registered Agent
  • Non-compliance with state laws and regulations

Step 2: Resolve Outstanding Issues

Once you have identified the reason for your business’s suspension or dissolution, you must resolve the outstanding issues. This may include:

  • Filing any missing Washington Annual Reports and paying associated fees. In Washington, the LLC Annual Reports costs $60 while the Corporation Annual Report costs $73.
  • Paying any outstanding taxes or fees
  • Appointing or updating your Registered Agent information. 
  • Resolving any non-compliance issues with state laws and regulations

Ensure that you keep records of all payments and documents submitted to the Washington Secretary of State, as you may need to provide proof of compliance during the reinstatement process. We recommend hiring the Best Registered Agent Services if you plan to reinstate your business. This will ensure that your documents are up to date.

It is suggested that you speak with a legal professional before you begin reinstating your Washington business. They’ll understand what’s best for you and your company. To safeguard your personal assets from business debts, you can always start an LLC in Washington.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Step 3: Obtain a Certificate of Existence

Certificate of Existence is a document issued by Washington that verifies that your business is in compliance with all state requirements and is authorized to conduct business within the state. Although obtaining a Certificate of Existence is not always required for reinstatement, it can be beneficial in demonstrating your business’s compliance and may expedite the reinstatement process.

To obtain a Certificate of Existence in Washington, you will need to:

Get and Submit the Form

The form is available on the Washington Secretary of State website. You can download the form and mail it or submit it online. 

Online Application Process:
  • Visit the State Website: In Washington, they offer an online portal for business services, which includes the option to request a Certificate of Status.
  • Register an Account: You may need to create an account or log in to your existing account to access the application process.
  • Provide Required Information and Documentation: The online application typically requires basic information about your business, such as the entity name, identification number, and business type. You may also need to upload supporting documents. 
Paper Application Process:
  • Download and Complete the Appropriate Forms: Visit the Washington Secretary of State to download the required application forms for the Certificate of Existence. Complete the forms, ensuring all information is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Provide Required Documentation: In Washington, you may need to include copies of your registration documents, Certificate of Formation, Annual Reports, or other supporting materials.
  • Mail or Deliver the Application: Once you have completed the forms and gathered the necessary documents, mail or deliver the application package to the Secretary of State, Corporations Division. P.O. Box 40234, along with the required fees.
Pay Any Associated Fees

The fees for obtaining a Certificate of Existence cost $20, vary depending on the type of business entity. Some states also offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Check the Washington Secretary of State website for the most up-to-date fee schedule. The Certificate of Existence’s processing time varies from state to state. Also, it depends on the expedited filing as well. It can take a few days to a few months to obtain the Certificate of Existence in Washington.

Provide Proof of Compliance

To prove compliance with state requirements, you must file Annual Reports and pay the necessary taxes.

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Step 4: Submit Reinstatement Application

Once you have resolved all outstanding issues and obtained a Certificate of Existence, you can submit your reinstatement application to the Washington’s Secretary of State. The reinstatement application process may vary depending on the state and the type of business entity (corporation, LLC, etc.).

In general, the reinstatement application process will require:

  • Completing a reinstatement application form is typically found on the Washington Secretary of State’s website.
  • Providing proof of compliance with state requirements, such as filing Annual Reports, paying taxes, and maintaining a Registered Agent.
  • Pay the reinstatement fee in Washington. The cost of the reinstatement fee amounts to $140. However, the cost will vary depending on the length of time your Washington business has been suspended or dissolved.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

After submitting your reinstatement application and all required documentation, you must await approval from the Washington’s Secretary of State. The processing time for reinstatement applications can vary depending on the Washington and the complexity of your case. Being patient and prepared to provide any additional information or documentation requested by Washington during this time is essential.

Step 6: Notify Creditors and Stakeholders

Once your business has been reinstated, you must notify creditors and stakeholders of your business’s renewed status. This may include:

  • Sending a formal letter to creditors and stakeholders informing them of the reinstatement.
  • Updating your Washington business’s website and social media accounts to reflect the reinstated status.
  • Informing any relevant licensing or regulatory agencies of the reinstatement.

Step 7: Resume Business Operations

After your Washington business has been reinstated and all relevant parties have been notified, you can resume your business operations. Be sure to maintain compliance with state laws and regulations moving forward to avoid future suspensions or dissolutions.

Reinstating or Creating a New Business?

Whether to reinstate a business or start a new one from scratch depends on several factors specific to your situation. Here are some points to consider when making your decision:

  • Costs: The costs of reinstating and starting a new business can vary significantly. Reinstating a business may involve paying outstanding taxes, fees, and penalties while starting a new business requires registration fees and potential legal costs. Compare both options’ costs to determine which is more financially viable.
  • Business History and Reputation: If your previous business has a strong reputation and established customer base, reinstating it may be more beneficial than starting from scratch. On the other hand, if your Washington business has a negative history or unresolved legal issues, start fresh with a new business.
  • Time and Effort: Reinstating a business can be a time-consuming process, as you need to resolve outstanding issues, submit a reinstatement application, and wait for approval. Starting a new Washington business may be faster, as you can register the business and begin operations relatively quickly. Consider which option is more time-efficient based on your situation.
  • Legal and Regulatory Compliance: If your previous Washington business was suspended or dissolved due to non-compliance with state laws and regulations, you should carefully evaluate whether you can maintain compliance if the business is reinstated. If you are confident in your ability to comply with requirements, reinstating the business might be a good option. However, starting a new Washington business might be a better choice if you still determine your ability to maintain compliance.

Ultimately, deciding to reinstate a business or start a new one from scratch depends on your circumstances and goals. Consider the abovementioned factors, consult with professionals such as Washington Business Attorneys and accountants, and evaluate which option best suits your needs and long-term business objectives.

FAQs

How do I reinstate a Washington business?
To reinstate a Washington business, you need to file a reinstatement application with the Washington Secretary of State.
What is a reinstatement application?
A reinstatement application is a document you complete and file with the Washington Secretary of State to reinstate a business that has been dissolved or terminated.
How much does it cost to reinstate my Washington business?
The cost to reinstate a Washington business varies depending on the specific circumstances of your business, such as the reason for the dissolution.
Why was my Washington business dissolved or terminated?
Reasons for dissolution or termination of Washington businesses can vary, but common reasons can include failure to file annual reports or nonpayment of taxes.
Can I reinstate my Washington business online?
Yes, you can file a reinstatement application online through the Washington Secretary of State’s Corporations Division website.
What documents do I need to reinstate my Washington business?
You will need a completed reinstatement application and proof of any outstanding taxes or fees owed to the state.
How long does it take to reinstate a Washington business?
The time it takes to reinstate a Washington business can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to process the reinstatement application.
Can I reinstate a Washington business if it has been dissolved for years?
Yes, you can still apply to reinstate a Washington business, even if it has been dissolved for an extended period.
How do I check the status of my Washington business?
You can check the status of your Washington business by viewing the information on file with the Washington Secretary of State’s Corporations Division website.
Can I still use the same name for my Washington business if it has been dissolved?
The availability of your business name will depend on whether another business has registered for the same name during the time of your business’s dissolution.
How do I update my Washington business records after reinstatement?
Once your Washington business has been reinstated, you can log in to your online account with the Washington Secretary of State’s Corporations Division website and make any necessary updates.
Can I dissolve my Washington business again after reinstating it?
Yes, you can dissolve your Washington business again if you choose to do so after the reinstatement.
How do I reinstate a Washington business that was terminated by the state for noncompliance?
To reinstate a Washington business that was terminated by the state for noncompliance, you will need to bring your business’s account up to date and pay any outstanding fees or taxes.
Will I need to file new paperwork for my Washington business after reinstating it?
Depending on the reason for your business’s dissolution, you may need to file new paperwork after reinstating, such as annual reports or tax filings.
Is there a time limit for reinstating my Washington business?
There is no set time limit for reinstating a Washington business, but the longer your business is dissolved, the more difficult it may be to reinstate.
Can I still access the bank accounts of my Washington business if it has been dissolved?
If your Washington business has been dissolved or terminated, you will likely need to open a new bank account after reinstatement.
Can I still use my EIN after my Washington business has been dissolved?
Yes, you can continue to use your EIN after reinstating your Washington business.
How do I obtain a certificate of reinstatement for my Washington business?
After your Washington business has been reinstated, you can request a certificate of reinstatement by contacting the Washington Secretary of State’s Corporations Division.
Do I need to appoint new officers for my reinstated Washington business?
If the same officers will continue to operate your Washington business after reinstatement, there’s no need to appoint new officers.
Can I reinstate my Washington business if I never dissolved it?
If your Washington business never dissolved, there is no need for reinstatement.
How do I renew my Washington business after reinstatement?
After reinstatement, you can renew your Washington business by filing annual reports and paying any necessary fees or taxes.
Will my Washington business have liabilities from before reinstatement?
Any liabilities your Washington business had before reinstatement will still exist unless paid off.
Do I need to provide proof of insurance for my reinstated Washington business?
Depending on your Washington business’s industry, you may need to provide proof of insurance after reinstatement.
How can I protect my personal assets after reinstating my Washington business?
You can protect your personal assets by forming a limited liability company or corporation for your Washington business.
Can I reinstate my Washington business if it was a nonprofit organization?
Yes, you can reinstate your Washington nonprofit organization by filing a reinstatement application with the Washington Secretary of State’s Corporations Division.
How can I avoid needing to reinstate my Washington business in the future?
You can avoid needing to reinstate your Washington business in the future by filing annual reports and paying taxes and fees on time.
What happens if my Washington business’s reinstatement application is denied?
If your Washington business’s reinstatement application is denied, you will receive notification of the reasons for the denial and steps you may take to appeal.
Are there any ramifications of having a dissolved business in Washington?
Possible ramifications for having a dissolved business in Washington, regardless of how long they’ve been inactive, include potential late fees, legal complications regarding business practices, and tax audits if applicable.
How do I reinstate my expired Washington business?
To reinstate an expired business, you need to file an Application for Reinstatement with the Washington Secretary of State.
What is the cost to reinstate a Washington business?
The cost to reinstate a Washington business entity varies depending on the type of entity, but typically ranges from $25 to $500.
Can I reinstate my Washington business after it has been administratively dissolved?
Yes, you can still file for reinstatement after your business has been administratively dissolved, but you will need to file additional paperwork and pay certain fees.
What happens if I don’t reinstate my Washington business?
If you don’t reinstate your Washington business, it will continue to stay inactive and inactive businesses may lose certain legal protections.
Can I reinstate my Washington business if it was dissolved voluntarily?
Washington businesses that were dissolved voluntarily can typically be reinstated without much difficulty, as long as all the necessary paperwork and fees are provided.
Do I need to provide my Washington business registration number when reinstating my business?
Yes, you will likely need to provide your Washington business registration number when reinstating your business.
How can I find my Washington business registration number?
You can find your Washington business registration number on previous paperwork or by searching the Secretary of State’s database of Washington businesses.
Do I need to pay any fines or penalties when reinstating my Washington business?
Depending on your situation, you may need to pay any accumulated fines or penalties in addition to the reinstatement fees when reinstating your Washington business.
What is the process for reinstating my Washington business?
The process for reinstating a Washington business involves filling out an Application for Reinstatement, submitting it with the appropriate fees and required documents to the Washington Secretary of State’s office, and waiting for their review and approval.
Are there any prerequisites for reinstating my Washington business?
Before you can reinstate your Washington business, you will need to make sure all the necessary filings and taxes are up to date.
Can I use a professional service to reinstate my Washington business?
Yes, there are many professional services that can help you file your application for reinstatement with the Washington Secretary of State’s office.
Can I ‘withdraw’ my Washington business before reinstating it?
If you no longer plan to do business, you can formally dissolve your Washington business instead of reinstating it.
Can I change my Washington business name when reinstating it?
The process of changing your business name is separate from the reinstatement process, although it’s possible to file for both at the same time.
Do I need to file any taxes when reinstating my Washington business?
You may need to pay certain taxes or file certain paperwork when reinstating your Washington business, depending on how much time has passed since your company was dissolved.
Can I reinstate my Washington business name once someone else has registered it?
No, you cannot reinstate a previously dissolved Washington business if the same name has since been used and registered by someone else.
Does reinstating my Washington business guarantee acceptance?
No, filing an Application for Reinstatement with the Washington Secretary of State does not guarantee that your business will be reinstated.
How can I remove a revoked status from my Washington business?
You will need to follow the steps required to reinstate your Washington business in order to remove its revoked status.
Can I reinstate my Washington business if it is currently being sued?
In most cases, you can still reinstate your Washington business if it is currently being sued.
Can I file for an extension while reinstating my Washington business status?
No, there are no extensions available during the reinstatement process for a Washington business.
Will I receive any notifications as a reminder to reinstate my Washington business?
The Washington Secretary of State may send your business a notice reminding you to file for reinstatement before your deadline.
Can out-of-state businesses reinstate their Washington business?
Yes, out-of-state businesses can still file for reinstatement with the Washington Secretary of State’s office.
Is a reinstated Washington business able to avoid registration fees it previously had?
No, a reinstated Washington business is still required to incur and pay all registration fees just like any other business.
Are there any restrictions on business activities during the Washington business reinstatement process?
Depending on your individual case and situation, you may still be able to conduct business activities while reinstating your Washington business.
Do I need to change all of my Washington business property registrations when I reinstate my business?
Generally, you don’t need to change any of your business’ property registration paperwork when reinstating it.
Can I operate as a non-profit in Washington if it was reinstated previously?
Yes, reinstating your Washington non-profit allows you to operate as a non-profit once again.
Can I still use my existing bank account after I reinstate my Washington business?
In most cases, you can continue using your Washington business’ existing bank accounts with small changes once your business is reinstated.

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Conclusion

Reinstating a business in Washington can be complex and time-consuming. However, following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully reinstate your business and resume operations. Remember to stay diligent in maintaining compliance with state laws and regulations to avoid future issues and ensure the continued success of your business.

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