In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, data security and privacy are crucial for businesses and customers alike. As companies undergo digital transformation, ensuring the security of sensitive information is not just a priority but must be a mandate. At Capitol Services, we uphold this commitment: “You’re safe with us.”
Photo (L–R Back Row): Ed Benson, Jason Brantley, Tafara Nyanhongo, Alan Wilson. Photo (L–R Back Photo (L–R Front Row): Michael Stanley, Tiffany Lemieux, Jan Yeager, Omari Guy.
IT Investments in Personnel, Infrastructure, and Client-Facing Tools
A strong security posture begins with skilled professionals and a robust infrastructure. Our IT team stays current with the latest security practices through continuous education and certifications. We invest in cutting-edge security software, including next-gen firewalls, AI-powered intrusion detection, and encryption tools—all monitored 24/7. Additionally, we’ve implemented protected cloud-based servers, secure data centers, and disaster recovery systems to ensure scalability and continuity.
We prioritize transparency and customer trust by continuously improving our technology. Our secure customer portals use end-to-end encryption and intuitive dashboards, enabling clients to manage data safely and efficiently. We’re also innovating with self-service software products that feature strong security. Customer service is a priority, and real people are available to assist clients with any aspect of our software or services.
Ongoing Commitment to Security and Service Quality
At Capitol Services, digital transformation is an ongoing journey. We consistently evaluate and adopt new technologies to enhance security and service quality. Regular audits, phishing campaigns, and ongoing employee education uphold top-tier security standards within a security-first culture.
We maintain a structured technology investment roadmap to stay ahead of emerging security threats and continuously improve our services. Our product roadmap ensures that clients benefit from new, secure tools and seamless digital experiences.
As cyberattacks and data breaches rise, our message remains clear: “You’re safe with us.” Through strategic IT investments, we affirm our dedication to protecting your data and creating a secure digital future.
Each step we take safeguards your data while fostering innovative solutions for success. We are committed to developing technologies that enhance your experience while ensuring the highest level of security.
By prioritizing both protection and innovation, we are creating a secure foundation so you can confidently embrace the future with Capitol Services by your side.
THE ROLLERCOASTER RIDE OF THE CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY ACT (CTA): WHAT’S NEXT?
Staying on top of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) has been nothing short of a thrilling ride. From its initial passage to the latest twists and turns, we’ve been right there with our clients—tracking the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s (FinCEN) rulemaking, analyzing the outcomes, and providing the support needed to navigate compliance. With tools like our EIN services and a secure Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) filing system, we’ve been able to simplify the compliance process, making it easier for clients to stay ahead.
We’ve been keeping a sharp eye on legislative shifts and court challenges, including a nationwide preliminary injunction that threw a wrench into mandatory filings in December 2024—just when the deadline was fast approaching. Despite the back-and-forth lifting of the injunctions, we managed to guide clients through the chaos, even helping those who opted to submit voluntary filings. Then, in February, as the final injunction was lifted, FinCEN set a new BOI filing deadline of March 21, 2025, while also signaling plans to ease compliance for lower-risk businesses. Things were starting to feel like they were getting back on track.
But then, in a move that took many by surprise, the U.S. Treasury Department issued a press release announcing it would not be enforcing penalties for late BOI filings pending the rollout of new reporting rules. This was a clear sign that more changes were on the horizon. And sure enough, on March 21, 2025, FinCEN released an interim final rule (IFR) that dramatically shrinks the reporting requirements to foreign entities operating in the U.S. and their non-U.S. beneficial owners. The IFR, effective immediately, significantly narrows the scope of the CTA. FinCEN will be accepting comments for the next two months and then plans to finalize the rules by the end of the year.
So, where does this leave us? U.S. entities are no longer required to file BOI reports and U.S. persons do not have to share their information, even if they are a beneficial owner of a foreign reporting company. As the situation continues to unfold, we remain committed to helping clients navigate this unpredictable landscape—whether it’s with corporate filings, EIN requests, or simply staying ahead of the next big change. Stay tuned—things are sure to get even more interesting!
PENNSYLVANIA’S ANNUAL REPORTING REQUIREMENT IS HERE!
Pennsylvania’s new reporting requirement went into effect January 1, 2025, replacing the longstanding decennial reporting requirement. Most domestic and foreign entities are now required to file an Annual Report with the Department of State (DOS). We have added the applicable entities to our Annual Report Management Service and will be filing these Pennsylvania Annual Reports on behalf of our ARMS clients.
Annual Reports are filed online, and the annual fee is $7 ($0 for nonprofit). Reporting dates differ based on entity type:
Corporations (profit and nonprofit): January 1 – June 30
Limited liability companies: January 1 – September 30
LPs, LLPs, business trusts, professional associations: January 1 – December 31
Reporting information will be made public and includes formation jurisdiction, registered office address, director or manager information, principal office address, and your DOS-issued entity number. No financial information is required.
The first annual report for newly registered entities is not due until the following year. The DOS plans to send notice reminders two months before the deadline to the address of the registered office.
On March 7, 2025, Kristi Solt attended the Houston Metropolitan Paralegal Association seminar. Congratulations to Matacha Saul from CB&I, who won our HMPA raffle prize!
Capitol Services is proud to support the Houston Metropolitan Paralegal Association through sponsorship.
Photo (L–R): Matacha Saul (CB&I) and Kristi Solt
TERRI KEITH
2024 · Atlanta · Territory Sales Manager
What do you love most about the internet?
The ability to connect effortlessly with others worldwide, immediate access to information, and the convenience of shopping.
What do you think airlines should offer on a flight that they currently do not?
Free checked bags, unlimited internet access, and blankets on domestic flights.
What is the scariest thing you have ever done?
I fell out of a kayak in the Mediterranean while vacationing in the Amalfi Coast.
What is the funniest movie you have ever seen?
The first ‘Hangover’ movie.
ZACH FERRETTI
2024 · Austin · Corporate Sales Manager
What topic do you always give your two cents on?
Hockey or the amount of cheese on a pizza. Sometimes less is more (sorry Chicago friends).
If you were entering a baking contest, what would you make?
I think banana bread is the only thing I’ve baked without totally messing it up, so I’ll go with that.
What is something you hate that you wish you loved?
PowerPoint.
Name something that both scares and intrigues you.
Artificial intelligence. I watch a lot of sci-fi movies.
Originally from Gweru, Zimbabwe, Tafara Nyanhongo has joined our IT team. In his free time, Tafara enjoys cycling and hiking and fondly remembers his honeymoon trip to Disney in Florida with his wife. The couple has two children and a dog named Jayce. When asked for a ‘fun fact’ about himself, Tafara said he’s never had a pepper or hot wing sauce that was too hot to handle.
The IT department in Austin also welcomed Alan Wilson to the team. Alan grew up in a small farming town where Philo T. Farnsworth (the inventor of television) attended high school. Not a fan of cold winters, Alan headed for warmer climates and found himself in Austin. A big movie buff, Alan created a home theater in his attic to share with his three boys (aged 15, 19, and 20) and two dogs – Ralph the Great Dane and Booger the Australian Cattle dog.
Tallahassee
Jennifer Bialowas has joined our UCC team. She is originally from Georgia and moved to Tallahassee over ten years ago. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys gardening, cooking, and watching hockey. Traveling to new cities, taking cruise ship vacations, or visiting a beach are some of Jennifer’s favorite ways to pass the time. A fan of musical productions, our new UCC team member plays the bassoon and shares her home with two cats.
LIFE OUTSIDE
A Passion For Piano
Tiffany Lemieux is a dedicated pianist with a deep love for music that spans genres and generations.
She practices her craft for at least an hour daily, constantly honing her skills and exploring new melodies. Tiffany’s favorite pianist is Jon Batiste.
During the day, Tiffany applies her extensive Dev-Ops skills to support IT initiatives at Capitol Services.
Tiffany’s musical journey began with Mrs. Sallier, her first piano teacher, and continued with Patricia Seals, a renowned music director, who guided her until the disruption of Hurricane Katrina. After relocating to Texas, Tiffany found a new mentor in Melissa Parry, further deepening her love for the piano.
“I’ve been playing since I was five and still play to this day. Right now, I’m working on Vienna (Billy Joel) and Nocturne Opus 9, No.2 (Chopin).”
Though Tiffany comes from a musical family, she is the only one who plays the piano. Her brothers were talented clarinet players in high school, showcasing that music runs deep within her family’s veins.
If money were no object, Tiffany would treat herself to a beautiful grand piano. While she’s written music of her own, Tiffany has kept her compositions close to her heart, choosing to share them with the world when the time feels right.
EMPLOYEE ANNIVERSARIES
We’d like to give a big shout-out to the following employees who are celebrating 5 or more years with the Capitol Services group of companies this quarter. Thank you!
Vickie Polanco
3/26/1990
Austin
Greg Wente
2/16/1998
Austin
Melanie Woolf
1/12/1998
Austin
Krista Abair
2/1/1999
Austin
Michael Yanez
1/12/2004
Austin
Jody Roberts
2/1/2004
Austin
Tara Morales
3/24/2008
Austin
Brittni French
3/16/2015
Dover
Tom Woodrome
2/17/2015
Austin
David Tadlock
1/19/2016
Tallahassee
Amanda Dods
3/27/2017
Austin
Richard Gallegos
2/16/2017
Austin
Leah Rodriguez
2/27/2017
Dover
Anna Cox
1/2/2018
Austin
Cindy Wamsley
3/26/2018
Tallahassee
Richard Brough
2/19/2019
Austin
Leslie Sellers
3/16/2020
Tallahassee
BEACH DAY LOGO!
While LOGO was soaking up the sun in Cancun, our team was working behind the scenes to keep all your filings, retrievals, and searches on time and on track.
Do you have swag? Please take a picture and send it to us. We’ll feature you in an upcoming newsletter!
Don’t have a Capitol Services shirt or a cool trucker hat? We can fix that.
“I love dealing with your company and your staff. Everyone I deal with is extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and attentive any time I need something. So, I appreciate that.”
— Danielle A., Smithtown, NY
Always There When You Need Us
“Shawna was able to look at what I needed on a rush basis and was able to provide a confidence level that I’d be able to make a deadline, which was COB today! Shawna went ABOVE and BEYOND again, and we were able to turn a bad situation into a verified closing.”
— Pam A., Houston, TX
Bob Gorse
Shawna Smith
A trusted nationwide provider of registered agent, corporate, and lien services since 1978. Albany | Austin | Baton Rouge | Carson City | Dover | Sacramento | Tallahassee