A formal legal document filed with the Secretary of State to officially create your corporation.

• Establishes your company as a legal entity.
• Defines the company’s name, business purpose, and location.
• Specifies the number and type of shares to be issued.
• Names the initial directors and registered agent.

A form to register your company’s official name or 'Doing Business As' name with the state.

• Ensures your business name is unique within your state.
• Provides legal protection for your business name.
• Allows you to open bank accounts and enter contracts under this name.

A document that sets out the rules for running your company internally.

• Specifies roles, responsibilities, and powers of directors and officers.
• Defines ownership structure and voting rights.
• Outlines procedures for decision-making and handling disputes.
• Mandatory for LLCs in many states and highly recommended for corporations.

An IRS form (Form SS-4) to obtain a unique tax identification number for your business.

• Required for federal tax reporting.
• Needed to open a U.S. business bank account.
• Necessary if hiring employees or paying contractors.

A contract among the company’s shareholders defining their rights, obligations, and share management.

• Prevents disputes between shareholders.
• Specifies how shares can be issued, sold, or transferred.
• Outlines dividend policies and decision-making authority.

A formal record signed by the first directors after incorporation.

• Appoints officers and key management positions.
• Approves bylaws or operating agreement.
• Authorizes issuance of shares to shareholders.

A form submitted to obtain permission to operate your business legally within a city, county, or state.

• Complies with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Necessary to open a bank account in the business name.
• May be required to collect taxes or apply for permits.

A document confirming the agent’s consent to act as the official recipient of legal notices for your business.

• Ensures your business receives official communications.
• Maintains legal compliance with the state.

Documentation from a U.S. address provider or virtual office service confirming your business address.

• Required for state registration and mailing purposes.
• Needed to open U.S. bank accounts.
• Provides a professional business address for correspondence and legal notices.

A form or service to obtain a U.S. phone number for your business, often via VoIP providers.

• Essential for customer communication in the U.S.
• Required when applying for some business services and accounts.
• Helps establish a professional presence in the U.S.

Forms and documents required by U.S. banks to open a business checking account.

• Typically includes Articles of Incorporation, EIN, and ID of authorized signers.
• May require Operating Agreement or Bylaws.
• Proof of U.S. business address and registered agent information.
• Necessary to manage business finances and process payments.