What is a Continuation Statement and Why Is It Important?

Definition & Meaning

A continuation statement is a legal document that serves as an amendment to a financing statement. It identifies the original financing statement by its file number and indicates that it is intended to extend the effectiveness of that initial statement. This document is essential for maintaining the priority of a secured party's interest in collateral over time.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, if a business initially filed a financing statement to secure a loan against its inventory, it must file a continuation statement before the expiration of the original statement to keep its security interest valid. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Filing Period for Continuation
California Five years from the original filing date.
New York Five years from the original filing date.
Texas Five years from the original filing date.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Financing Statement A document that provides notice of a secured party's interest in collateral. A financing statement is the initial filing, while a continuation statement is an amendment to extend its validity.
Amendment A change made to a legal document. A continuation statement is a specific type of amendment focused on extending the effectiveness of a financing statement.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need to file a continuation statement, ensure you do so before the expiration of the original financing statement. You can use legal templates from US Legal Forms to assist you in this process. If your situation is complex, consider seeking professional legal advice to ensure compliance with all requirements.

Quick facts

  • Typical filing period: Five years from the original filing date.
  • Jurisdiction: Governed by state law under the UCC.
  • Filing fee: Varies by state, typically between $10 and $50.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Its purpose is to extend the effectiveness of an original financing statement, ensuring that the secured party's interest remains valid.