On May 8, 2025, the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) took decisive action to protect business owners and entrepreneurs across the state. These days, business filing fraud and unauthorized filings are a real headache, especially with everything moving online. So, to nip these problems in the bud for local companies, the ACC just greenlit a bunch of new policies.

A Closer Look at the New Arizona Anti-Fraud Policies

The ACC’s latest measures combine enhanced security with a continued commitment to streamlined business processes. Here’s what business owners need to know:

1. Two Forms of ID Now Required for Business Filings

To ensure that only authorized individuals can file on behalf of a business, the ACC will require filers to present two forms of identification—either two primary forms (such as a driver’s license and passport) or one primary and one secondary form (like a driver’s license and a W-2 form). This applies to all in-person filings starting June 16, 2025, with online, fax, and mail filings to follow once the ACC’s new online system launches later this year.

Primary ID options include:

• State-issued driver’s license or photo ID
• Real ID
• Passport or Passport Card
• Permanent Resident Card
• Employment Authorization Document with photo
• U.S. Military ID
• Tribal ID

Secondary ID options include:

• W-2 Form
• Birth certificate
• Voter Registration Card
• Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Health Insurance Card
• Paystub

Special procedures will apply for service company and law firm representatives (“runners”).

2. LLC Signing Authority Form

LLCs can now complete a Signing Authority Form to specify exactly who is authorized to sign documents on behalf of the business. Only current members or managers who are officially registered can fill out this form, and they need to do it in person with proper ID. This step helps protect businesses from unauthorized filings while ensuring that existing members or managers retain their usual authority

3. Annual Attestation of Existence for LLCs

To keep business records current and weed out inactive entities, the ACC will send electronic notices each January to LLCs that haven’t filed any documents in two years. Businesses must confirm their continued existence by responding electronically. Failure to respond within 60 days will trigger a process that could lead to administrative dissolution, changing the LLC’s status to “pending inactive” and eventually dissolving the business if no action is taken. 

4. Flexibility in Annual Reports and Certificates of Disclosure

Corps can now use their own Annual Report and Certificate of Disclosure forms, as long as they play by the rules and attach the ACC’s Guidance Worksheet. This gives businesses the flexibility to tailor their filings to their specific needs while remaining compliant. But watch out! If you skip the worksheet, your filing will get tossed. Alternatively, the ACC has official forms you can use.

Why These Changes Matter

The new policies are designed to enhance security and prevent fraud while maintaining a straightforward process for business owners. The ACC’s approach is deliberate and balanced, with the goal to:

• Reduce the risk of business identity theft and fraudulent filings
• Protect the integrity of Arizona’s business environment
• Maintain a streamlined, user-friendly filing process for entrepreneurs and business owners

What’s Next for Arizona Businesses?

• In-person requirements for ID and Signing Authority Forms take effect June 16, 2025.
• Online, fax, and mail requirements will roll out with the new ACC online filing system later this year.
• The Attestation of Existence process for LLCs and the new Annual Report flexibility will also coincide with the launch of the online system.

The Arizona Corporation Commission is really stepping up its game when it comes to customer experience and security. With these new policies, business owners can look forward to a much safer and more reliable way of handling their business filings.

IncParadise: Your Partner in Navigating Arizona’s New Filing Policies

These new policies, while crucial for security, can add layers of complexity for business owners. This is where a trusted service provider like IncParadise becomes invaluable. IncParadise offers comprehensive business filing and compliance services in Arizona, helping businesses navigate these new requirements seamlessly. Contact IncParadise today for expert help with your Arizona business filings. We’re ready to assist you!