Startup Terms Glossary
What is a Certificate of Incorporation?
Certificates of incorporation, sometimes called articles of incorporation , are startup business filings registered within the state. They serve as official records of the startup’s formation.
The following elements are usually included in a certificate of incorporation:
- Element 1. Business name and principal address
- Element 2. Number of stock shares issued
- Element 3. Startup officer names
- Element 4. Purpose of the startup
- Element 5. Duration of the startup’s formation
You do not have to file your operating agreement when submitting your certificate of incorporation form. Your operating agreement is an internal company document that your startup doesn’t have to share with your local secretary of state’s office.
Certificate of Incorporation Examples
Examples of when startups need a certificate of incorporation include:
- Example 1. Legally operate in the state of business
- Example 2. Open and use a business bank account
- Example 3. Apply for professional permits and licenses
- Example 4. Hire and pay part-time and full-time employees
- Example 5. File and pay business and employer-related taxes
Check out this article about certificates of incorporation.
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