If you’re starting a business and want legal protection, credibility, and room to grow, filing your Articles of Incorporation is a must.

This guide walks you through exactly what to include, how to file, and how to avoid costly mistakes—so you can build your business on a solid legal foundation and focus on what matters most: growing your dream.

🔹 What Are Articles of Incorporation?

Articles of Incorporation (sometimes called a Certificate of Incorporation or Corporate Charter) is a legal document filed with your state’s Secretary of State to formally create a corporation. Once filed and approved, your business becomes a separate legal entity, offering liability protection and other benefits.

⚠️ Note: This is for businesses forming as corporations (like C-corps or S-corps), not LLCs. LLCs file Articles of Organization instead.

🧾 What Should Be Included in the Articles of Incorporation?

Each state has slightly different requirements, but here’s what’s generally included:

1. Business Name

Must be unique and include a corporate identifier like “Inc.”, “Corp.”, or “Incorporated.”
✅ Tip: Search your state’s business name database to check name availability.

2. Principal Business Address

This is your main place of business (can be different from mailing address).

3. Registered Agent

A person or company designated to receive legal documents.
Must have a physical address in the state of incorporation.

4. Business Purpose

Can be broad (“to engage in any lawful activity”) or specific (e.g., “to provide graphic design services”).

5. Incorporator Information

Name and address of the person filing the Articles (this could be you or your lawyer).

6. Stock Information

Number of shares authorized to issue.
Types of stock (common vs. preferred) if applicable.
Par value (optional in some states).

7. Duration of Corporation

Most modern corporations are set up to exist perpetually, unless a limited duration is chosen.

8. Directors

Some states require names and addresses of initial board members.

📬 How to File the Articles of Incorporation

Step-by-Step:

Choose Your Business Name
- Check state name availability.
- Secure matching domain name and social handles if possible.
Select a Registered Agent
- Can be an individual or a service (e.g., Northwest Registered Agent, LegalZoom).
Prepare Articles of Incorporation
- You can usually find templates or forms on your Secretary of State’s website.
File with the State
- Submit online or via mail.
- Filing fees vary by state (typically $50–$300).
Receive Confirmation
- Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation.

🛡️ Avoiding Common Mistakes

Mistake	How to Avoid It
Choosing a taken business name	Always do a name availability search first.
No registered agent	Hire a reliable registered agent or service with a track record.
Missing stock info	Clearly define how many shares you want to authorize and the types.
Not keeping records	Maintain a corporate records book and meeting minutes.
Failing to comply after filing	Stay on top of annual reports, franchise taxes, and state renewals.
Mixing personal and business funds	Open a business bank account immediately and never co-mingle funds.

📌 Final Tips

After incorporating, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS (free).
Draft corporate bylaws to govern internal operations.
Hold an initial board meeting and issue stock certificates.
Stay compliant with state requirements (e.g., filing annual reports or statements of information).

A Complete Guide to Articles of Incorporation