Articles of Incorporation is a legal document that establishes a corporation as a legal entity in the eyes of the law. Here are the things you need and how to file Articles of Incorporation:
1. Determine the Requirements for Filing
The requirements for filing Articles of Incorporation can vary depending on your location and the type of corporation you are forming. Before you start the process, research the requirements for your state or province. Generally, you will need to provide the following:
- Name of your corporation
- Purpose of your corporation
- Registered office address and the name of your registered agent
- Names and addresses of the directors and officers of the corporation
- Number of authorized shares of stock
2. Choose a Name for Your Corporation
The name you choose for your corporation must be unique and not already in use by another business in your state or province. You can check the availability of a business name by searching the business name registry in your state or province.
3. Prepare the Articles of Incorporation
The Articles of Incorporation is a formal legal document that outlines the details of your corporation. It is typically prepared by an attorney or a business incorporation service. The Articles of Incorporation should include the following:
- The name of your corporation
- The purpose of your corporation
- The registered office address and the name of your registered agent
- The number of authorized shares of stock
- The names and addresses of the directors and officers of the corporation
4. File the Articles of Incorporation
Once you have prepared the Articles of Incorporation, you will need to file them with the appropriate state or provincial agency. In some cases, you may need to file the Articles of Incorporation with both the state and provincial agencies. You will need to pay a filing fee when you submit the Articles of Incorporation.
5. Obtain Your Certificate of Incorporation
After you file the Articles of Incorporation, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation from the state or provincial agency. This certificate officially establishes your corporation as a legal entity. You can use this certificate to open a bank account, apply for business licenses and permits, and conduct business activities.
In summary, to file Articles of Incorporation, you need to determine the requirements for filing in your state or province, choose a name for your corporation, prepare the Articles of Incorporation, file them with the appropriate agency, and obtain your Certificate of Incorporation. It is recommended that you consult with an attorney or a business incorporation service to ensure that your Articles of Incorporation comply with the legal requirements in your state or province.