West Virginia Articles of Incorporation: Definition, Purpose
Quick Facts — Articles of Incorporation Lawyers
- Avg cost to draft an Articles of Incorporation (Corporations): $590.00
- Lawyers available: 113 business lawyers
- Clients helped: 89 recent articles of incorporation projects
- Avg lawyer rating: 4.95 (7 reviews)
What are West Virginia Articles of Incorporation?
In West Virginia, articles of incorporation is a legal document that is required to establish a new corporation. This formation document must be filed and approved by the West Virginia Secretary of State before a corporation can begin operations.
The purpose of articles of incorporation are to establish your business as a legally operating corporation. Once your company is incorporated, you can request and EIN, open business bank accounts, and apply for the permits and licenses necessary to run a successful business.
How Do I Find Articles of Incorporation in West Virginia?
You can find an articles of incorporation form for West Virginia corporations by following these steps:
- Visit the West Virginia Secretary of State website.
- Click the ”Business” tab at the top of the page.
- Scroll down to “Forms and Fees” and click “Search Business and Licensing Forms”.
- In the search box, type “Articles of Incorporation”.
The search results will provide several forms, but for profit corporations you will need Form CD-1.
Does West Virginia Require Articles of Incorporation?
Yes. In West Virginia, you cannot form a corporation without filing articles of incorporation.
How Do I Fill Out Articles of Incorporation in West Virginia?
West Virginia articles of incorporation can be filled out using the state provided PDF, or by registering your company online on the WV One Stop Business Portal. Your articles of incorporation must include the following information:
- The corporation name
- The address of the principal office
- Registered agent name and address
- Email address for correspondence
- Authorized shares
- The purpose of the corporation
- The name and address of each incorporator
- The signature of each incorporator.
If you are unsure how to properly draft articles of incorporation, it is recommended that you hire a lawyer to assist you in drafting and filing these essential formation documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Real Articles of Incorporation (Corporations) Projects
New Jersey New Business set up (New Jersey) Drafting
- New Jersey
- 10 lawyer bids
- $250 - $5,000
Washington File Articles of Incorporation Prepare & File
- Washington
- 5 lawyer bids
- $300 - $999
See all Articles of Incorporation (Corporations) projects in West Virginia
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Need to file articles of incorporation?
Meet some of our West Virginia Articles of Incorporation Lawyers
Morgan S.
Corporate Attorney that represents startups, businesses, investors, VC/PE doing business throughout the country. Representing in a range of matters from formation to regulatory compliance to financings to exit. Have a practice that represents both domestic and foreign startups, businesses, and entrepreneurs. Along with VC, Private Equity, and investors.
"Morgan delivered far beyond the price point. He didn't just review our investor package — he caught gaps two other reviewers missed (including a top-tier venture firm we benchmarked him against), rebuilt the custom documents to professional standard, and added missing closing mechanics we didn't even know we needed: the 83(b) election, escrow instructions, stock assignment. He pushed back on his own client when the documents said otherwise — that's the lawyer you want. §144 analysis citing the 2025 Delaware reform, triple anti-broker-dealer protections, a related-party ARR cap he invented on his own — depth you'd expect at five times the fee, closed out with a proper written memo on firm letterhead. The timeline ran a bit longer than planned in places, but the result was more than worth it: every item closed, every question answered, the whole package consistent and ready to sign. Very happy overall — would hire again, and our next project is already queued."
January 18, 2023
Dayton M.
Business Law - Criminal Defense - Immigration
April 4, 2025
Christopher M.
Experienced in-house counsel with a strong track record in commercial contracting, data privacy, and regulatory compliance across global organizations. Skilled at aligning legal strategy with business objectives, negotiating complex agreements, and mitigating enterprise risk. Passionate about enabling innovation through practical, business-focused legal solutions.
Find the best lawyer for your project
Browse Lawyers NowLawyer Reviews for West Virginia Articles of Incorporation Projects
New Business Start Up
"Jane's expertise was essential for helping me navigate the nuances of filing for trademarks and more."
SCA Doc Job
"Allen was extremely helpful, provided excellent guidance, even beyond the exact scope of work which a professional and experienced legal advisor would. And provided a detailed and consumable work product on time and communicated clearly how to proceed. Thank you."
Reply From Allen L.
Thank you for the kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. I enjoyed working on the SCA documents with you, and I am glad the work product gave you a clear path forward — going beyond the stated scope is just how I approach things when I see something that matters. Please reach out any time you need legal support. Allen
View MoreNew Business set up (New Jersey)
"Jason was easy to work with, took the time to answer the questions we had and delivered the scope of work as agreed."
Articles of Incorporation
"Jimmy was excellent to work with. Very informative, gave me several options, communicated every day and completed the project ahead of schedule. I would highly recommend him if you are starting a new business and need help."
Meet some of our other Articles of Incorporation Lawyers
Angela S.
Business law attorney with over 20 years of experience in contracts, entity formation and risk management
"I hired Angela for a Demand Letter project in an attempt to recover a security deposit. She's very knowledgeable about Real Estate law & was empathetic about my situation. Having to hire an attorney for any case, whether simple or complex, can be daunting. That being said, Angela is very personable & addressed all my questions & concerns which put my mind at ease. I'd highly recommend Angela for any legal needs if you require a reliable attorney"
Grace A.
Business Lawyer with over 9 years of legal experience. Can assist with all types of business and commercial agreements, including formation documents, employment/hiring, financing/fundraising & business sales and purchases.
February 5, 2025
David G.
I specialize in commercial and technology agreements, and general corporate and real estate matters. My passion for transactional and corporate work grew out of helping small and medium sized businesses with agreements of all types and real estate matters. Though I primarily represent large private and publicly traded Fortune 500 companies, I very much enjoy representing new and emerging businesses. From the private family office or new start-up to the rapidly growing and mature company, I have a proven track record of exceeding expectations in helping clients achieve their vision.
February 8, 2025
Cameron D.
I’m a Texas-based business attorney focused on helping companies—from early-stage startups to established enterprises—navigate their legal needs with clarity and confidence. My practice centers on contracts, corporate governance, and international business matters. Whether you're forming a new company, reviewing a commercial agreement, or expanding into new markets, I bring practical, business-minded legal guidance tailored to your goals. Clients appreciate that I don’t just “paper” deals—I help them understand what they’re signing and protect their long-term interests. I believe in clear communication, fair flat fees, and efficient turnarounds, especially when time is money. In addition to domestic clients, I work with a range of foreign individuals and companies doing business in the U.S., and regularly assist with cross-border transactions, regulatory issues, and contract negotiation. If you’re looking for an attorney who values relationships, communicates clearly, and knows how to get deals done—I’d be glad to connect.
Corporate
Articles of Incorporation
New York
Does an LLC need articles of incorporation?
I am considering forming an NY LLC and am doing a bit of research.
Ramsey T.
LLCs are not technically "companies" or "corporations" and therefore they are not formed by filing Articles of Incorporation. Corporations are formed when you file Articles of Incorporation. LLS are formed by an "Organizer" who files a Form of Organization or Articles of Organization with a state. LLCs actually are "hybrids" with characteristic of companies in some ways and of partnerships in other ways.
Corporate Governance
Articles of Incorporation
New York
Can you provide me with information on the role and responsibilities of a registered agent in a business entity?
I recently started a small business and I have been advised to appoint a registered agent for my company. However, I am not fully aware of the role and responsibilities of a registered agent and how they can benefit my business. I would like to understand the legal requirements and obligations associated with this position, as well as how a registered agent can assist in ensuring compliance with state regulations and receiving important legal documents on behalf of my company.
Damien B.
If a company registers to do business in a state where it does not have a physical presence, it must designate a registered agent in that state to accept legal documents. This ensures compliance with state laws and provides a reliable way to receive official communications. A company can appoint itself as its registered agent to receive legal documents if it has a physical address in that state. In that situation, there would be no need to have a separate registered agent. Some business owners who work from home opt for a registered agent service, which can help protect privacy by keeping the individual's home address off public records. Feel free to reach out if you want a consultation or other legal services.
Business
Articles of Incorporation
Florida
new business startup
we are located in florida but were told delaware is a good satte to incorporaet the business
Bruce B.
Yes. Many businesses choose to incorporate in Delaware because Delaware has favorable laws to business entities as well as a detailed history of how cases will by decided by their courts. For this reason Delaware is a good option to consider for incorporation. You can then register with the State of Florida as a foreign corporation doing business in Florida.
Corporate
Articles of Incorporation
Florida
When do I need articles of incorporation?
I want to start an LLC in Florida and have read about articles of incorporation. I want to understand what they are used for.
Jane C.
You need articles of incorporation when you start a business, open a business bank account, and apply for a tax identification number. Disclaimer - This information is provided for general informational purposes only. No information contained in this post should be construed as legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
Non-Profit Corporation
Articles of Incorporation
New York
Can the Articles of Incorporation be amended to change the purpose of a nonprofit organization?
I am a board member of a nonprofit organization that was established with a specific purpose outlined in our Articles of Incorporation. However, due to changing circumstances and the evolving needs of our community, we are considering amending the Articles of Incorporation to expand our organization's purpose. We want to know if it is legally possible to make such changes to the Articles of Incorporation and if there are any specific requirements or procedures we need to follow in order to do so.
Damien B.
Hello! My name is Damien Bosco, Esq. My law office is located in Long Island City across from Manhattan. A not-for-profit corporation may amend its Certificate of Incorporation from time to time by filing a Certificate of Amendment under Section 803 of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law. The document may contain any information originally included in a Certificate of Incorporation (name change, revision to the purpose clause, etc.). Because you plan to alter the corporation's purpose, you must review Section 804 to ensure you obtain the necessary consent. If you need a consultation or help with this, feel free to reach out. Best regards.
Quick, user friendly and one of the better ways I've come across to get ahold of lawyers willing to take new clients.
View Trustpilot ReviewNeed to file articles of incorporation?
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