Articles of Incorporation

What Are Articles of Incorporation? Articles of incorporation (also called a certificate of incorporation or corporate charter) are the foundational document that creates a corporation as a legal entity. Filed with the secretary of state (or equivalent state agency), this document establishes the corporation's existence and provides essential information about its structure and governance. ## Required Information Most states require the articles to include: - The corporation's legal name (must be distinguishable from existing entities) - The purpose of the corporation (can be stated as any lawful purpose) - The registered agent's name and address - The number and type of authorized shares - The incorporator's name and signature - The principal office address ## Beyond Filing Filing articles of incorporation is just the first step in forming a corporation. After incorporation, the company must adopt bylaws, hold an organizational meeting of directors, issue stock certificates, obtain an EIN from the IRS, and comply with ongoing state requirements such as annual reports and franchise taxes. The articles can be amended through shareholder approval and filing amended articles with the state.