HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) -- Attorney General Michelle Henry announced that her office has submitted a filing for a lawsuit against a Florida-based company for attempting to scam Pennsylvania newly registered businesses.
The company, accused of impersonating the Pennsylvania Department of State, was allegedly contacting business owners as "PA Corporate Certificates, LLC" to solicit purchases of a Subsistence Certificate, which is a real document that costs $40 but is not necessary for all businesses.
The LLC allegedly inflated the price to $102.50 and received payment from more than 1,000 business owners. They are also accused of sending letters that appeared to be from the Department of State and misrepresenting the purpose or benefit of the Subsistence Certificate.
“This out-of-state company preyed on new business owners by allegedly impersonating a government agency,” Attorney General Henry said. “Entrepreneurs and new businesses revitalize local economies and enhance communities, so the Office of Attorney General takes very seriously any and all attempts to exploit business owners.”
Anyone who received a letter from PA Corporate Certificates should file a complaint with the Office of Attorney General online or by phone at 1-800-441-2255.