Connecticut LLC in Bad Standing — How to Restore

If your Connecticut LLC's status shows as "not in good standing," "delinquent," or "inactive," it means you have outstanding compliance obligations. Here is how to identify the issue and restore your LLC to good standing.

For formation basics, see our formation guide. For all guides, see our learning-center overview.

What "Bad Standing" Means

Bad standing (also called "not in good standing" or "delinquent") means your LLC has unfiled reports, unpaid fees, or other compliance failures. This is different from dissolution:

• Bad standing: LLC still exists but is flagged. Can be cured by catching up.
• Administrative dissolution: LLC has been terminated by the state. Requires formal reinstatement.

Common Causes

1. Missed Annual Report — most common cause. due between January 1 and March 31 each year. Fee: $80.
2. No registered agent on file — agent resigned and no replacement was filed
3. Tax delinquency — outstanding tax obligations flagged by revenue department
4. Returned mail — state cannot reach you at the address on file

How to Identify the Problem

1. Search your LLC on portal.ct.gov/sots
2. Check the status and any notes about delinquency
3. Look for outstanding filings or fees
4. Contact Connecticut Secretary of State if the online record is unclear

How to Restore Good Standing

Step 1: File All Overdue Reports

• Log into portal.ct.gov/sots
• File each missing Annual Report period
• Pay fees for each ($80 per filing period)

Step 2: Update Registered agent

If your agent resigned or is no longer at the address on file:

• File a change of registered agent with the Connecticut Secretary of State
• Ensure the new agent has a valid physical Connecticut address

Step 3: Clear Tax Obligations

If flagged for tax issues:

• Contact the Connecticut revenue department
• File delinquent tax returns
• Pay outstanding amounts plus penalties

Step 4: Verify Restoration

After completing all filings:

• Check your status again on portal.ct.gov/sots
• Allow 3-7 business days for status to update
• Request a Certificate of Good Standing if needed for banking or contracts

Why Good Standing Matters

• Banking: Banks may freeze accounts or refuse new services for LLCs not in good standing
• Contracts: Counterparties may check your status before entering agreements
• Liability protection: While generally maintained, delinquent status weakens your position if challenged
• Foreign registration: Other states check home-state status for foreign LLC applications

Prevention

1. Use a professional registered agent service — we monitor deadlines and send reminders
2. Keep your address current with the state at all times
3. File Annual Report as soon as the window opens (don't wait until the deadline)
4. Set up notifications through portal.ct.gov/sots if available

FAQ

Can I still operate my business while in bad standing?

Generally yes, but your legal position is weakened. Banks, partners, and courts may view non-compliance negatively. Fix it as quickly as possible.

How long does it take to restore good standing?

Once you file all delinquent reports and pay fees, status typically updates within 3-7 business days.

Will bad standing lead to dissolution?

Yes, if not corrected. Continued non-compliance will eventually trigger administrative dissolution proceedings.

For more guides, see our learning-center overview.