Understanding Articles of Incorporation
Definition:
Articles of incorporation are formal documents submitted to a state authority to legally establish a corporation or company. These filings officially recognize your business as a legal entity and typically outline key information such as your company’s name, business address, mission, and structure (e.g., C-corp, S-corp, nonprofit).
Why Articles of Incorporation Matter
Filing these documents is a critical first step in forming a corporation and gaining legal recognition in your operating state. The articles also serve to distinguish your business as a separate legal entity, whether you’re creating a for-profit company or a nonprofit organization.
What’s Typically Included
While the required details vary by state, you’ll generally need to provide:
- The legal name of your business
- Principal business address
- Type of corporation (e.g., nonprofit, professional corporation)
- Name and contact details of your registered agent (the person or entity responsible for receiving legal notices)
- Names and addresses of your board of directors, if applicable
Most states allow you to file this documentation online, by mail, or in person.
Filing and Costs
You’ll need to send your completed articles of incorporation to your state’s Secretary of State office. The filing fees differ depending on location. For instance:
- Georgia: $110
- New York: up to $125
These fees are typically nonrefundable.
Example sentence using the term
“We made our business official by filing the articles of incorporation, marking the start of our corporate journey.”
Related Terms
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
- Audit trail
Helpful Articles from Beyond
- How to Apply for an SBA Loan
- Step-by-Step Guide to Payroll Tax Calculation
- Choosing the Right Legal Entity for Your Business
Beyond is here to help small business owners navigate the legal and compliance steps needed to build a solid foundation, from incorporation to payroll and beyond.