Methodology authored by Zach Wade, Wade Intel — operator-led lender tech methodology firm. Definitions validated against production borrower-validation runs with working bridge lenders. · Last reviewed 2026-07-10

What is Secretary of State Filing?

The official registration of a business entity (LLC, Corporation, LP, etc.) with a state’s Secretary of State office. The filing creates the entity’s legal existence and establishes a public record including formation date, entity type, registered agent, and status.

Why it matters to bridge lenders

SOS filings are the foundation of entity validation. A recently formed entity (under 6 months) with no track record applying for a large bridge loan is suspicious. An entity formed in a different state than where the property is located may require foreign entity registration. PulseClose automates SOS lookups across all 50 states.

Related: Registered Agent, Good Standing, Beneficial Ownership