What are the Articles of Incorporation?

The articles of incorporation are the documents used to establish the corporate entity. The incorporator files the articles with the Secretary of States Office. The state issues a certificate of incorporation recognizing the corporations existence. The filing fee is generally between $100 and $500, depending upon the state of filing.

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What is Included in the Articles of Incorporation?

The articles of incorporation include certain fundamental information about the corporation. Generally, the minimum information includes:

• The Incorporators (individuals organizing the filing and signing articles of incorporation);
• Corporate Name (must include a state-recognized indication of corporate status, such as Inc., Ltd., etc.;
• Principal Business Location (the location where business records will be maintained);
• Corporate Purpose (No longer required in many states, as there is an assumption of any lawful purpose);
• Registered Agent (capable of receiving official mail or service of process for the corporation);
• Type of Equity (this includes the number of shares, types of equity, and par value of the shares).

Any specific limitations on shareholder or director rights that you want to be subject to shareholder vote if it is to be changed later.

Related Topics

• What are the main characteristics of a Corporation
• Articles of Incorporation 
  • What to include in the Articles of Incorporation
• Corporate Bylaws
• Exiting the Corporation
• Dissenter's Rights
• What are the requirements to be an S Corporation?