Creating articles of incorporation is as easy as filing out a simple form.
Articles of incorporation are the statements of purpose a business makes in a registration document filed with a state to request recognition as a corporation and authority to do business under state laws. Each state has its own business statutes that govern the formation of corporations and detail the minimum information that must be provided in the articles of incorporation for the document to be accepted by the state. All states provide a do-it-yourself form that can be obtained as a download from a state website or by calling the office of the state agency that handles business registrations. However, using the state form is merely the easiest way to create articles of incorporation. Customized articles can be expanded to address special business circumstances and filed using any format that complies with the corporation law and contains the required minimum provisions.
Instructions
1. Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration's Business website and navigate to the "Start a Business" section. Proceed to the "Business Incorporation" section (see References). There you will find a chart of "State Business Entity Registration" links to the agencies that handle business incorporations in all 50 states. Select the state where you plan to do business.
2. Navigate through the state's website to the section that details the procedure for new entity registrations. All state websites provide easily accessible information for obtaining the state format for articles of incorporation and filing it. This section is usually entitled "forms and fees." Many states have implemented an electronic filing system for articles that allows a business owner to fill out the form online and e-file it with the state. However, even if your state of incorporation does not allow electronic filing, a form is available that can be downloaded, printed and filed by mail, fax or in person.
3. Fill out the articles of incorporation form provided by the state. The information that must be included in the document will differ by state. However, the minimum required is usually the corporation name and address, corporate purpose, name and address of a registered agent and the number and type of stock issued. The form will include a sheet of instructions explaining each required clause.
