As a Maine-based business, I recently received a form in the mail titled "2024 - ANNUAL REPORT INSTRUCTION FORM." Considering that other businesses may have run into this, here is some information:
Shenna Bellows, Maine’s Secretary of State, has already issued a critical warning to corporations and non-profits operating within the state. The alert pertains to misleading solicitations that have been circulating, offering to file annual reports on behalf of businesses—for a hefty fee of $210.
The Deceptive Scheme
These solicitations, which appear official but lack authorization from the Maine Department of the Secretary of State, have raised concerns among small business owners and non-profit directors. The organization behind these deceptive communications goes by the name C.F.S. and cunningly mimics the appearance of the Division of Corporations’ annual report form.
What You Need to Know
Here are the key points to keep in mind:
Unauthorized Solicitations: The solicitations from C.F.S. are not legitimate. Businesses and non-profits should exercise caution and avoid falling victim to this scheme.
Actual Annual Report Form: The official 2024 annual report form will be available online starting in January 2024. Businesses must complete and submit this form by the filing deadline of June 1, 2024.
Filing Fees: The filing fees for annual reports vary based on the type of entity:
Domestic business entities: $85
Non-profit corporations: $35
Foreign business entities: $150
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