NYS Department of State

The Office of the Secretary of State was established in 1778, making it one of the oldest agencies in the administration of New York State government. Known as the "Keeper of Records" for more than two centuries, the Department of State continues to perform its historic responsibilities, as well as oversee a wide range of additional functions and evolving programs. The Department's customers include the financial community, corporations, and attorneys. It also licenses a variety of professions and occupations, including the real estate and cosmetology industries, private investigators, and notaries. The Office of Business and Licensing Services interacts extensively with the state's business community. The Division of Corporations, State Records, and the Uniform Commercial Code; the Division of Cemeteries; the Division of Licensing Services; and the Division of Administrative Rules are all housed in this Office. Through the Office of Local Government Services, our customers can obtain information and assistance about programs and policies affecting their communities. From implementing the state's building code to developing waterfront redevelopment plans or training firefighters and local government officials, much of the work of the Department is done in partnership with local governments. The Office of Local Government consists of the Division of Coastal Resources and Waterfront Revitalization, the Office for Fire Prevention and Control, the Division of Code Enforcement and Administration, the Division of Community Services, and the Office of Regional Affairs. The Department of State also provides administrative support for several other offices, including the State Commission on Public Integrity, the State Athletic Commission, and the Committee on Open Government. Information about these organizations can also be found on the Department's homepage.