Peabody, MA · Essex County
Business Certificate
This certificate records the names, residence, business location, and business title of people conducting business under a name other than their real name, for filing with the city or town clerk.
- licensed online notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
The form text describes a certificate for people conducting business under a title other than their real name, individually or as a partnership. It states that the certificate is filed with the clerk of each city or town where the business has an office, and that it must be renewed every four years while the business continues. The form also addresses filing a sworn statement when a person withdraws from the business or changes residence or business location.
Who needs it
People conducting business in Peabody under a name other than their real name, individually or as a partnership, file the certificate with the city clerk.
Why it needs a notary
The form says all signatures must be notarized when signed outside the City Clerk’s Office; each person named as conducting the business signs under oath before the notary.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Certificate
Get Peabody’s Business Certificate form from the city’s form source.
- 2
Complete the Form
Enter the requested business and contact information, and review the filing instructions on the form.
- 3
Book an Online Notary
If signing outside the City Clerk’s Office, arrange a commissioned online notary for the required notarization.
- 4
Sign on Video
Sign under oath during the online notary session, following the notary’s instructions.
- 5
Submit to the City
Submit the completed certificate to the Peabody City Clerk and confirm any filing details with the office.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Peabody. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- Who files Peabody’s Business Certificate?
- The form says a person conducting business under a title other than their real name, individually or as a partnership, files with the clerk of each city or town where the business has an office.
- Do I need to notarize the certificate?
- The form states that all signatures must be notarized if signed outside the City Clerk’s Office. Each person named as conducting the business signs under oath.
- How do I sign the certificate remotely?
- Massachusetts permanently authorized remote online notarization for its own notaries effective January 1, 2024. Book a commissioned online notary, sign during the online session, and confirm filing details with the city clerk.
- When must I file an update?
- The form text calls for a sworn statement if a person discontinues, retires, or withdraws from the business, or changes residence or the business location. Confirm with the city or town clerk if unsure.
Business Certificate in other Essex County cities
Each city publishes its own version of this form. Pick the city where you’re filing.