A Statement of Information is a mandatory filing that keeps a U.S. state’s records about your company up to date, including details like business addresses, owners, and officers. It must be submitted at formation and periodically thereafter, with requirements varying by state.
What is the Statement of Information?
A Statement of Information (sometimes called an Annual Report, Biennial Report, or Periodic Report, depending on the state) is a compliance document that U.S. companies must file to keep their registration active and in good standing. It provides the state with current information about the business, including:
- Legal name of the company
- Principal business address
- Mailing address
- Names and addresses of officers, directors, managers, or members
- Registered Agent’s name and address
- A brief description of business activities
In many states, this statement is first required shortly after the company is formed—often within 90 days of registration—and must then be renewed annually or biennially. For example, California requires an initial Statement of Information within 90 days of formation and then every year thereafter. Other states, like Florida, require an annual report to be filed by a specific deadline each year to maintain active status.
Failing to file the Statement of Information on time can lead to late fees, penalties, and eventually administrative dissolution—meaning the state will revoke the company’s authority to operate.
For non-U.S. residents who own U.S. companies, this filing is particularly important because missing it can cause the company to fall out of good standing, making it difficult to open bank accounts, enter contracts, or sell the business. Many foreign owners use a Registered Agent or compliance service to track these deadlines and file on their behalf.
While the form itself is straightforward, it’s an essential part of ongoing compliance. Even if no changes have been made to the business since the last filing, most states still require submission to confirm the information on record is accurate.
In summary, the Statement of Information is the state’s way of making sure it always has updated details about your company. Submitting it on time protects your company’s good standing and avoids unnecessary fees or disruptions to your business operations.
