Legal Documents Needed to Incorporate your Business

Incorporating your business requires preparation and planning but with our helpful step-by-step instructions, you can be well on your way to incorporating your business while saving a bundle.

1. Request for Reservation of Corporate Name. This form verifies and reserves the proposed corporate name. It's a good idea to verify the name is available with the state filing office or your Articles of Incorporation may be rejected.

2. Articles of Incorporation. Depending upon your state, this may also be known as a Certificate of Formation or Certificate of Organization or Charter. Whatever name it goes by, this is the legal document that brings the business to life. Once accepted, the corporation becomes its own legal entity.

3. Corporate Bylaws. The Bylaws specify the rights and responsibilities of the shareholders, officers and directors as well as many other items related to how the corporation will conduct business. For example, the fiscal year of the corporation, how contracts will be approved and other related issues.

4. Minutes of First Meeting. This is the first important business the newly formed corporation will conduct. It generally consists of electing officers, adopting bylaws, authorizing the issuance of initial stock shares and other routine but all important duties.

5. Stock Certificate(s). Stock issuance, recording and actual stock certificates.

To find more forms and documents appropriate for your business, take Rocket Lawyer's free Business Legal Check Up.

Laws on this topic may vary from state to state. This content is not meant to provide you with complete information and it is not intended to be legal or tax advice. It is recommended that you consult with your own attorney, accountant or other advisor regarding your specific situation.