State Corporation Requirements

Whether you are just starting a business or incorporating a business already in existence, it is helpful to know and understand the formation and ongoing requirements each state places on corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).

For each state, BizFilings has state guides that provide key information on state-specific requirements. Our four types of guides and the information they include are:

Corporation formation requirements

This guide includes information on costs, naming requirements, director requirements, whether certain information must be included in the Articles of Incorporation, whether other state or county filings are required at the time of incorporation and how the state treats professional services businesses.

Ongoing corporation requirements

This guide includes information on corporate record keeping requirements, state taxes and fees, business license requirements and whether the state recognizes the federal S corporation election.

LC formation requirements

This guide includes information on costs, naming requirements, member/manager requirements, whether certain information must be included in the Articles of Organization, whether other state or county filings are required at the time of LLC formation and whether the state allows professional limited liability companies (PLLCs) for professional services businesses.

LLC ongoing requirements

This guide includes information on state taxes and fees and business license requirements.

Click on a state in the table below, and then pick the guide of interest to you from the box that appears.

Alabama

Director information
The following are Alabama’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Alabama does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 19 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Alabama is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Alabama’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Alabama. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Other filings required at time of incorporation
Some states require additional filings or steps at the time of incorporation, such as a county level filing, publishing notice of the incorporation in a local newspaper or an initial report filing. Alabama requires the following:

Initial report. Alabama requires corporations to file the Initial Business Privilege Tax Return and Annual Report with the Department of Revenue within two and one-half months of incorporation.
County Filing. Businesses may be required to undertake a filing at the county level prior to incorporation.

Professional services businesses
Alabama allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Alaska

Corporate name

The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. Names cannot contain words pertaining to a city. The name may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a business purpose other than the one permitted by the Articles of Incorporation. The name cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to that of another company incorporated or registered to transact business in the state.

Director information

The following are Alaska’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Alaska does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Alaska does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Alaska is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Alaska’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Alaska. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Other filings required at time of incorporation

Some states require additional filings or steps at the time of incorporation, such as a county level filing, publishing notice of the incorporation in a location newspaper or an initial report filing. Alaska requires the following:

Initial report. Alaska requires corporations to file an initial report with the state within six months of incorporation.

Professional services businesses

Alaska allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Arizona

Corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Association,” “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. It must not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for an unlawful purpose. The name shall be distinguishable from the name of domestic, nonprofit or foreign corporations authorized to transact business; the reserved or registered name of a corporation; the fictitious name of a foreign corporation; the name of a limited liability company or foreign limited liability company; the partnership name of a limited liability partnership, registered limited liability partnership or registered foreign limited liability partnership. With the words “Bank,” “Banc,” and “Bancorp,” the company must be a bank and approval of the name is needed from the Department of Banking.

Director information

The following are Arizona’s requirements for directors of corporations.

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Arizona does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Arizona does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Arizona is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Arizona’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent.Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Arizona. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Other filings required at time of incorporation

Some states require additional filings or steps at the time of incorporation, such as a county level filing, publishing notice of the incorporation in a local newspaper or an initial report filing. Arizona requires the following:

Publication requirement. Arizona requires corporations to publish notice of the incorporation within 60 days of incorporation in a publication (i.e. newspaper) in the known place of business for three consecutive publications.

Professional services businesses.

Arizona allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Arkansas

Corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. It may not contain language stating or implying the corporation is organized for other business purposes, and must be distinguishable from names in use by certain other enumerated entities.

Director information

The following are Arkansas’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have not less than three directors, unless there are only one or two shareholders of record. In that case, the number of directors may be less than three but not less than the number of shareholders of record.
Residence requirements. Arkansas does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Arkansas does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Arkansas is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Arkansas requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Arkansas. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Arkansas allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

California

California corporate name
Name endings are not required to be used in the corporate name unless the corporation is being filed as a professional corporation or close corporation, or if it is using a person’s name. In such cases, the name must end with “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. The name must not be likely to mislead the public. It must not be the same as, or resemble so closely as to lead to deception, the name of a domestic or qualified foreign corporation, a name under reservation or the registered or assumed name of a foreign corporation. The name needs Superintendent of Bank’s approval if it contained the words “Bank,” “Banc,” “Trust” or “Trustee.”

Director information

The following are California’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations are required to have not less than three directors unless (1) shares have not been issued, then the number can be one or two, (2) the corporation has one shareholder, then the number can be one or two, or (3) the corporation has two shareholders, then the number can be two.
Residence requirements. California does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. California does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in California is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. California’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in California. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Other filings required at time of incorporation

Initial report. California requires corporations to file a Statement of Information within 90 days of incorporation.

Professional services businesses

California allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Colorado

The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. The name must not imply the corporation is organized for any purpose not stated in its charter or Articles of Incorporation.

Director information
The following are Colorado’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Colorado does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Colorado is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Colorado’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Colorado. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Colorado allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Connecticut

Corporate name
The name of the corporation must be in English letters or numbers. It must contain one of the following words: “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or “Societa per Azioni” or it must contain the abbreviation “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Co.,” “Ltd.” or “S.p.A.” It may not imply it is organized for any purpose not permitted in its Certificate of Incorporation. The name must be distinguishable from the name of a domestic corporation; a reserved or registered corporate name; the fictitious name of a foreign corporation; the name of a nonprofit corporation; the name of any domestic or foreign non-stock corporation; or other business entities filed with the state.

Director information
The following are Connecticut’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Connecticut requires directors to have a physical address (no post office boxes).
Age requirements. Connecticut does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Certificate of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Certificate of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Connecticut is called the Certificate of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Connecticut’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Connecticut. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Other filings required at time of incorporation

Initial report. Connecticut requires corporations to file an initial report with the state within 30 days of the date of the corporation’s organizational meeting.

Delaware

Delaware corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Association,” “Company,” Corporation,” “Club,” “Foundation,” “Fund,” “Incorporated,” “Institute,” “Society,” “Union,” “Syndicate,” “Limited” or the abbreviation “Co.,” “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Ltd.” or words or abbreviations of like import in other languages. The name must be distinguishable from those of other corporations organized, reserved or registered as a foreign corporation under the laws of Delaware. Use of words “Bank,” “Banc,” “Banque” and “Trust” need approval from the Department of Banking.

Director information
The following are Delaware’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Delaware does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Delaware does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Certificate of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Certificate of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Delaware is called the Certificate of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Delaware’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Delaware. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Delaware allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

District of Columbia

Corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. The name shall not be the same as or deceptively similar to name of a domestic corporation, authorized foreign corporation or reserved name already existing in DC. The word “Bank” cannot be used unless the company is a bank.

Director information
The following are DC’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. DC requires directors to have a physical address (no post office boxes).
Age requirements. Directors must be age 18 or older.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in DC is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. DC’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in DC. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

DC allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Florida

Florida corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” Incorporated” or an abbreviation thereof. It may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for purposes other than that permitted by Florida law or the Articles of Incorporation. The name must be such as will distinguish it from another corporation formed in the state. Words such as “Bank,” “Bancorp,” “Mortgage” and “Loan” require approval from the Department of Financial Regulation.

Director information
The following are Florida’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Florida does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Florida is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Florida’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Florida. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Florida allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians to form a professional association (PA).

Georgia

Georgia corporate name
The corporation’s name must include the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. It must not exceed 80 characters, including spaces and punctuation. It may not contain language stating or implying the corporation is organized for a purpose other than that permitted by Georgia law or the Articles of Incorporation. It must be distinguishable from the other corporation names in the state. Use of words such as “Bank,” “Credit Union,” “Insurance” and “Trust” require approval by other state departments and/or commissioners.

Director information
The following are Georgia’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Georgia does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a Georgia corporation is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Georgia’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Georgia. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Other filings required at time of incorporation

Initial report. Georgia requires corporations to file an initial report (Initial Annual Registration) within 90 days of incorporating.
Publication requirement. Georgia requires corporations to publish notice of the incorporation in the county of the corporation’s registered agent. The publication must be forwarded for publication no later than one business day after the incorporation date with the Secretary of State.

Professional services businesses

Georgia allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians to form a professional corporation (PC).

Hawaii

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. It must not be the same as or substantially identical to the name of any other corporation, partnership, foreign corporation or foreign partnership existing or authorized to transact business within the state. Purely geographical locations and the word “Partners” cannot be used in corporate names. The word “Bank” and variations require approval from the Commissioner of Financial Institutions.

Director information
The following are Hawaii’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one director if they only have one shareholder, two directors if they have two shareholders, and three directors if they have three or more shareholders.
Residence requirements. Hawaii does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Hawaii is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Hawaii’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Hawaii. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Hawaii allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Idaho

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof, provided that if “Company” or “Co.” is used, it may not be immediately preceded by the word “and” or the symbol “&.” It may not contain any word or phrase indicating or implying the corporation is organized for any purpose other than one or more of the purposes contained in its Articles of Incorporation. It may not be the same as or deceptively similar to that of a domestic corporation or a qualified foreign corporation or a reserved name, with qualified exceptions. The words “Engineer” and “Survey” require approval by the engineering board.

Director information
The following are Idaho’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Idaho does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Idaho is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Idaho’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Idaho. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Idaho allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians to form a professional corporation (PC).

Illinois

Illinois corporate name

The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. Use of dashes in a name often is not approved by the state. The name must not contain any word or phrase indicating or implying it is organized to conduct the business of insurance, assurance, indemnity, acceptance of savings deposit, banking or corporate fiduciary. Words such as “Bank,” “Trust” or variations thereof require approval from the Department of Banks and Trusts. The name must be distinguishable from that of any domestic or foreign corporation authorized to transact business or a name to which exclusive right is, at the time, reserved or registered.

Director information

The following are Illinois’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Illinois does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Illinois is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. The requirements in Illinois include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Illinois. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Illinois allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Indiana

Corporate name
The name must include the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. The name cannot imply purpose or power not possessed by corporations organized under Indiana Business Corporation Law or in the Articles of Incorporation. The name must be distinguishable from a reserved name or the name of any other corporation then existing under the laws of the state, unless consent of the other user is obtained.

Director information
The following are Indiana’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Indiana does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Indiana does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Indiana is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Indiana’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Indiana. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Indiana allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Iowa

Corporate name
The name must contain the words “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or the abbreviation “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Co.,” “Ltd.” or words or abbreviations of like import in another language. The name must be distinguishable from that of any domestic or foreign corporation authorized to transact business or a name to which exclusive right is, at the time, reserved or registered.

Director information
The following are Iowa’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Iowa does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Iowa is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Iowa’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Iowa. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Iowa allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians to form a professional corporation (PC)

Kansas

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Association,” “Church,” “College,” “Company,” “Corporation,” “Club,” “Foundation,” “Fund,” “Incorporated,” “Institute,” “Society,” “Union,” “Syndicate,” “Limited” or the abbreviation “Co.,” “Corp.,” “Inc.” or “Ltd.”. It must be distinguishable upon the records of the Secretary of State from names of other corporations, limited liability companies, and limited partnerships.

Director information
The following are the Kansas requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Kansas does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Kansas is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. The Kansas requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Kansas. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Kansas allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Kentucky

Corporate name
The name must include the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. Use of the words “Engineer” or “Survey” requires approval by the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. The name shall not contain language stating or implying the corporation is organized for a purpose other than that permitted by the act or the Articles of Incorporation. The corporate name must be distinguishable upon records of Secretary of State from the name of existing business entities filed with the Secretary of State. The corporation may use one of these names if another corporation consents in writing or in certain other enumerated cases.

Director information
The following are Kentucky’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Kentucky does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Kentucky does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Kentucky is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Kentucky’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Kentucky. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

County filing. After the incorporation, one copy of the Articles of Incorporation must be filed with the county in which the corporation’s registered office is located.

Professional services businesses

Kentucky allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Louisiana

Corporate name

The name of the corporation must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. The name may contain the word “Company” or the abbreviation “Co.,” if “Company” or “Co.” is not immediately preceded by the word “and” or the symbol “&.” The name must not be the same as or deceptively similar to any other reserved or registered name of another corporation. The name cannot use certain enumerated words relating to banking, savings and loans, or insurance. The words “State” and “Security” cannot be used in the name. Words such as “Bank,” “Cooperative,” “Guarantee,” “Loan,” “Mutual,” “Savings,” “Trust” and others require approval from the Office of Financial Institutions.

Director information

The following are Louisiana’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Louisiana requires directors to have a physical address (no post office boxes).
Age requirements. Louisiana does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Louisiana is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Louisiana’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation, but do need to be listed in the initial report, which is due at the time of incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list (in the initial report) the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Louisiana. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Other filings required at time of incorporation

Initial report. Louisiana requires corporations to file an initial report at the time of incorporation.
County filing. Louisiana also requires corporations to make a filing in the county of the corporation’s legal address. If the corporation’s legal address is not in Louisiana, the filing should be in the county of the corporation’s registered agent.

Professional services businesses

Louisiana allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Maine

Corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited,” “Company” or an abbreviation thereof. The name cannot be any name that is the same as or deceptively similar to the name of any domestic corporation or foreign-qualified corporation without authorization. The name cannot utilize a reserved name. The name shall not contain any word or phrase indicating it is organized for any purpose not permitted by Maine law.

Director information
The following are Maine’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Maine does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Maine does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Maine is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Maine’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Maine. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Maine allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Maryland

Maryland corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. For banking corporations, the words “Bank,” “Banking” or “Bankers” may be used. The name may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a purpose other than the one permitted by the Articles of Incorporation. The name cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to that of a domestic or foreign qualified corporation. Listing wording within parentheses within the company name implies multiple names and is not allowed.

Director information
The following are Maryland’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Maryland does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Maryland does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Maryland is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Maryland’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Maryland. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Maryland allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Massachusetts

Corporate name
The name of the corporation must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. A period must be used at the end of any abbreviation. Symbols cannot be used in a company name. The corporation may assume any name indicating it is incorporated. The name may not be the same as the name or trade name of a Massachusetts corporation, foreign corporation, firm, association, person carrying on business in Massachusetts, or name under reservation. It also may not be so similar as to be mistaken for another name unless given the written consent of the existing corporation, firm, association or person. The words “United States,” “U.S.” or “Veteran” imply an association with the government and cannot be used.

Director information
The following are the Massachusetts requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have no fewer than three directors, unless there are two or fewer shareholders. In such case, there may be one or two directors.
Residence requirements. Massachusetts does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Organization. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Organization.

Requirements for the Articles of Organization
The document required to form a corporation in Massachusetts is called the Articles of Organization. The information required in the formation document varies by state. The Massachusetts requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Organization.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Organization. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Massachusetts. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Massachusetts allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Michigan

Corporate name

The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. It must not indicate the corporation was formed for a purpose other than one or more purposes permitted in the Articles of Incorporation. The name must be distinguishable from the name of any domestic or foreign corporations, domestic or foreign limited partnerships, or names currently reserved. It cannot use the words “Bank,” “Industrial Bank,” “Deposit,” “Surety,” “Security,” “Trust” or “Trust Company”.

Director information

The following are Michigan’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Michigan does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation

The document required to form a corporation in Michigan is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Michigan’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Michigan. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Michigan allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Minnesota

Corporate name
The name shall contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or the abbreviation thereof, or it shall contain the word “Company” or the abbreviation “Co.,” but only if it is not immediately preceded by the word “and” or the character “&.” The name must not be deceptively similar to the name of any other domestic corporation, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, foreign corporation, foreign limited partnership, foreign limited liability partnership or foreign limited liability company authorized to do business in the state, unless: (1) the other business is about to change its name, cease business, dissolve or withdraw, and (2) written consent from that business is obtained.

Director information
The following are Minnesota’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Minnesota does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Minnesota is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Minnesota’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Minnesota. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Minnesota allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Mississippi

Corporate name
The corporation’s name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. For banking corporations, the words “Bank,” “Banking” or “Bankers” may be used. The word “Trust” cannot be used. The name may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a purpose other than the one permitted by the Articles of Incorporation. The name cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to that of a domestic or foreign-qualified corporation.

Director information
The following are Mississippi’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Mississippi does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Mississippi is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Mississippi’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Mississippi. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Mississippi allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Missouri

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. It may not contain any word or phrase indicating or implying the corporation is a governmental agency or that it is organized for any purpose other than the purpose for which corporations may be organized under the laws of Missouri. It must be distinguishable from the name of any domestic or foreign corporation authorized to do business in Missouri or from any limited partnership, limited liability company or reserved name filed with the state.

Director information
The following are Missouri’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have not less than three directors unless there are only one or two shareholders of record, in which case the number of directors may be less than three but not less than the number of shareholders.
Residence requirements. Missouri does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Missouri is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Missouri’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Missouri. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Missouri allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Montana

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. The name must be distinguishable from that of any corporation authorized to transact business in the state, a reserved or registered name, any assumed business name, limited partnership name, limited liability company name, trademark or service mark.

Director information
The following are Montana’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Montana does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Montana does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Montana is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Montana’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Montana. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Montana allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Nebraska

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or the abbreviation “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Co.” or “Ltd.” It must be distinguishable from the name of a corporation incorporated or authorized to transact business in the state, a corporate name reserved or registered, the fictitious name of a foreign corporation, the corporate name of a not-for-profit corporation incorporated in or authorized to transact business in this state, a trade name registered in the state, the trade name of domestic or foreign corporations entitled to do business in the state, or a name that is reserved or registered. However, the similar name may be registered if the corporation affected consents in writing or by court decree.

Director information
The following are Nebraska’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Nebraska does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Nebraska does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Nebraska is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Nebraska’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Nebraska. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Publication requirement. Nebraska requires corporations to publish notice of the incorporation for three consecutive weeks in a publication (i.e. newspaper) in the county of the principal business location. If the corporation does not have a principal business location in Nebraska, the notice may be published in the county of the registered agent’s location. Proof of publication must be filed with the Secretary of State.

Professional services businesses
Nebraska allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Nevada

Nevada corporate name
Nevada corporations are not required to use name endings such as “Incorporated” or “Inc.” A name appearing to be that of a natural person and containing a given name or initials must not be used as a corporate name, except with an additional word such as “Incorporated,” “Limited,” “Inc.,” “Ltd.,” “Company,” “Co.,” “Corporation,” “Corp.” or other word identifying it as not being the name of a natural person. If the name implies banking, trust or insurance powers, prior approval of the banking superintendent or insurance commissioner is needed. The name must not be the same as or deceptively similar to the name of any corporation, limited partnership, limited liability company, foreign corporation, foreign limited partnership or foreign limited liability company. It must also not be the same as or deceptively similar to a name reserved for use of any other proposed corporation unless written consent of the person or other entity the name is reserved for is filed with the Articles of Incorporation. There are a number of words for which usage requires approval by the applicable state department or agency, such as (but not limited to) “Accountant,” “Bank,” “Brokerage,” ‘Financial” and “Realtor.”

Director information
The following are Nevada’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Nevada does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Nevada is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Nevada’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Nevada. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Initial report and business license requirement. Nevada requires corporations to file an Initial List of Officers/Directors and Business License on or before the last day of the month following the incorporation. The filing fee is $125 for the Initial List and $200 for the business license registration.

Professional services businesses
Nevada allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

New Hampshire

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or “Limited,” or the abbreviation “Inc.,” or “Corp.” or “Ltd.” The name must not be the same as or deceptively similar to the name of any corporation authorized to transact business in the state, any reserved or registered name, the fictitious name of a foreign corporation, domestic or foreign limited partnership, or any other business entity. The name must not contain language implying the corporation is organized for a purpose not permitted by the Act or its Articles of Incorporation.

Director information
The following are New Hampshire’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. New Hampshire does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. New Hampshire does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in New Hampshire is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. New Hampshire’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in New Hampshire. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
New Hampshire allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

New Jersey

New Jersey corporate name
The name shall contain the word “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” an abbreviation thereof or the abbreviation “Ltd.” The name must not contain any word, phrase, abbreviation or derivative thereof indicating or implying it is organized for any purpose other than one or more purposes permitted by its Certificate of Incorporation. It must be distinguishable from the names of other for-profit and nonprofit domestic corporations, foreign corporations, domestic and foreign limited partnerships, and current name reservations or registrations. The words “Olympic,” “Little League,” “Realtor” and “Trust” cannot be used.

Director information
The following are New Jersey’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. New Jersey does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Certificate of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Certificate of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in New Jersey is called the Certificate of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. New Jersey’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in New Jersey. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
New Jersey allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC), which is also called a Professional Association (PA).

New Mexico

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporation,” “Company,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. The name must not be the same as or confusingly similar to the name of any domestic or foreign corporation, or a name reserved by or registered by another corporation unless written permission of other corporation is obtained. The name must not imply a purpose other than that contained in the Articles of Incorporation. The words “Bank,” “Insurance,” “Little League,” “Olympic” and “Trust” cannot be used.

Director information
The following are New Mexico’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. New Mexico does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. New Mexico does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in New Mexico is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. New Mexico’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in New Mexico. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Initial report. New Mexico requires corporations to file an initial report within 30 days after incorporation.

Professional services businesses

New Mexico allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).
New York

New York corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof. All abbreviations must end with a period. Accent marks cannot be used in the name. The name may not be the same as or so similar or confusing to that of any domestic or authorized foreign corporation or reserved name. The name may not contain any word or phrase indicating the corporation is formed for any purpose other than that included in its Certificate of Incorporation. The use of certain enumerated words and abbreviations pertaining to banking, insurance and various professions is prohibited or restricted.

Director information
The following are New York’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. New York does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
Inclusion in the Certificate of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Certificate of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in New York is called the Certificate of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. New York’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Listing the name and address of a registered agent is optional in New York. Corporations must, however, include the address to which legal documents, such as Service of Process, should be sent. The registered agent or person at the Service of Process address must be available during normal business hours.

Professional services businesses
New York allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

North Carolina

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company” or “Limited,” or the abbreviation “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Co.” or “Ltd.” Names may not contain language stating or implying the corporation is organized for purposes not permitted under North Carolina law and its Articles of Incorporation. The name must be distinguishable from the name of any domestic, foreign or nonprofit corporation, or the reserved or registered name of a limited liability company or partnership. Use of words such as “Insurance,” “Mutual,” “Trust,” “Wholesale” and “Engineering” must be approved by the appropriate state department or agency.

Director information
The following are North Carolina’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. North Carolina does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. North Carolina does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in North Carolina is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. North Carolina’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in North Carolina. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
North Carolina allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

North Dakota

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or “Company.” It must be in the English language or any other language expressed in English letters or characters. It may not contain words implying the company is incorporated for a purpose other than that outlined in the Articles of Incorporation. The name may not be the same as or deceptively similar to the name of a domestic or foreign corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership, reserved name, registered fictitious name, or trade name unless consent is given.

Director information
The following are North Dakota’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. North Dakota does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. North Dakota does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in North Dakota is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. North Dakota’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in North Dakota. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
North Dakota allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Ohio

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word “Company,” “Corporation” or “Incorporated” or the abbreviation “Co.,” “Corp.” or “Inc.” It must be distinguishable from the name of another domestic or foreign corporation authorized to do business in the state and from any trade name. It must not contain language implying it is connected with a government agency of the United States. Use of the words “Bank” or “Trust” requires approval from the Superintendent of Banks, and use of the word “Insurance” requires approval from the Department of Insurance.

Director information
The following are Ohio’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have not less than three directors, unless there are only one or two shareholders. In such case the number of directors may be less than three but not less than the number of shareholders.
Residence requirements. Ohio does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Ohio does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Ohio is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Ohio’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Ohio. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Ohio allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians to form a professional corporation (PC).

Oklahoma

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or an abbreviation of (when applicable) “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited,” “Association,” “Club,” “Foundation,” “Fund,” “Institute,” “Society,” “Union” or “Syndicate.” The name must be distinguishable from that of any other corporation, limited partnership, trade name, fictitious name, reserved name, limited liability company, limited partnership or any limited liability company name filed with the Secretary of State.

Director information
The following are Oklahoma’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Oklahoma does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Oklahoma does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Certificate of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Certificate of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Oklahoma is called the Certificate of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Oklahoma’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Certificate of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Oklahoma. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Business registration. Oklahoma requires corporations file a Business Registration Form with the Oklahoma Tax Commission within 60 days from the date of incorporation.

Professional services businesses
Oklahoma allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC

Oregon

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or “Limited.” It must be distinguishable from any corporation name, reserved name, registered name, professional corporate name, nonprofit corporate name, cooperative name, limited partnership name, business trust name or assumed business name. The name shall not contain the word “Cooperative” or include words in parentheses.The name must be comprised of the English letters “a” through “z.”

Director information
The following are Oregon’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Oregon does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Oregon does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Oregon is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Oregon’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Oregon. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Oregon allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania corporate name
The name must contain either the word or the abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Company,” Incorporated” or “Limited.” The name must be distinguishable from that of any domestic or foreign corporation registered in the state. The name may be in any language but must be expressed in English letters or characters or Arabic or Roman numerals. Use of words such as (but not limited to) “Bank,” “Bond,” “Endowment,” “Insurance,” “Survey,” “Title” and “Trust” require approval by the appropriate state department or agency.

Director information
The following are Pennsylvania’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Pennsylvania does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Pennsylvania does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Pennsylvania is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Pennsylvania’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Pennsylvania. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Publication requirement. Pennsylvania requires corporations to publish notice of the incorporation in two newspapers, preferably one being a legal journal. Proof of the publication should be kept with the corporate records.

Professional services businesses
Pennsylvania allows professional, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC

Rhode Island

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or “Limited.” The name must not be deceptively similar to that of any domestic or foreign corporation, limited partnership or foreign limited partnership authorized to do business in the state or to any reserved or registered name unless written consent is obtained from the holder of such name. It may not contain any word implying the corporation was formed for a purpose for which it is not organized.

Director information
The following are Rhode Island’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Rhode Island does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Rhode Island does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Rhode Island is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Rhode Island’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Rhode Island. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Rhode Island allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

South Carolina

Corporate name
The name must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company” or “Limited,” the abbreviation “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Co.” or “Ltd.,” or abbreviations of words with similar meanings in another language. The name cannot contain language indicating a purpose other than that permitted by state law and the Articles of Incorporation. It must be distinguishable upon records of the Secretary of State from the name of a domestic or qualified foreign corporation, reserved or registered corporate name, non-profit corporation or limited partnership.

Director information
The following are South Carolina’s requirements for directors of corporations.

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. South Carolina does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. South Carolina does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in South Carolina is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. South Carolina’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation, but they must be listed in the initial report.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in South Carolina. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Initial report. South Carolina requires corporations to file an initial report at the same time as filing the Articles of Incorporation.

Professional services businesses
South Carolina allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

South Dakota

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or “Limited.” It may not be the same as or descriptively similar to the name of any domestic or qualified foreign corporation, reserved or registered name, or any limited partnership unless consent is obtained. The name must not imply it is organized for any purpose other than that stated in the Articles of Incorporation.

Director information

The following are South Dakota’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. South Dakota does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. South Dakota does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in South Dakota is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. South Dakota’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in South Dakota. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
South Dakota allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Tennessee

Corporate name
The name must include the word “Corporation,” Incorporated,” “Company” or an abbreviation thereof, including words or abbreviations in a foreign language. It must be distinguishable in the Secretary of State’s records from any corporate or assumed name of a domestic or qualified foreign corporation, a reserved or registered name under Tennessee law, or the name of a not-for-profit corporation, limited partnership or limited liability company. Use of the words “Bank,” “Credit Union,” “Mortgage” and “Trust” requires approval by the Department of Financial Institutions.

Director information
The following are Tennessee’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Tennessee does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Tennessee does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Charter. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Charter.

Requirements for the Charter
The document required to form a corporation in Tennessee is called the Charter. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Tennessee’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Charter.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Charter. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Tennessee. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

County filing. If the corporation’s principal office is in Tennessee, a copy of the Charter must be filed with that county’s government. If the principal office is not in Tennessee, no county filing is required.

Professional services businesses
Tennessee allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Texas

Texas corporate name
The name must contain either the word or an abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company” or “Limited.” Symbols cannot be used in the name. Names submitted with superscript letters or numbers or subscript letters or numbers will not appear in that format in the official company name. (For example, H₂0 would appear as H20.) The name may not contain the word “Lottery.” The name must not imply a purpose other than that stated in the Certificate of Formation. It may not be the same as or deceptively similar to the name of any domestic or foreign corporation or reserved or registered name. However, a name already in use may be used if the corporation gets written consent from the user filed with the Secretary of State. Use of words tied to education (such as but not limited to “College,” “School” and “Seminary”) cannot be used without approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Use of words such as “Bank,” “Trust” and those implying ties to Veterans (“Veterans,” “War,” etc.) also require additional approvals prior to use.

Director information
The following are Texas’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Texas does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Texas does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Certificate of Formation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Certificate of Formation.

Requirements for the Certificate of Formation
The document required to form a corporation in Texas is called the Certificate of Formation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. The Texas requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Formation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Certificate of Formation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Texas. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Texas allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Utah

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or an abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or “Company,” or words or abbreviations with the same meaning in another language. It must be distinguishable from the name of any domestic corporation, authorized foreign corporation, domestic or foreign limited liability company or partnership, or reserved or registered name in the State of Utah. Use of the words “Bank,” “College,” “Institute” and “University” requires additional state department approvals.

Director information
The following are Utah’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Typically, corporations must have at least three directors. A corporation’s board of directors may consist of one or more individuals before any shares are issued. After shares are issued and for as long as a corporation has fewer than three shareholders, its board of directors may consist of a number of individuals equal to or greater than the number of those shareholders.
Residence requirements. Utah does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Utah does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Utah is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Utah’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Utah. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Utah allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Vermont

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or an abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company” or “Limited.” The name must not have the word “Cooperative” or any abbreviation thereof. The name may not contain language stating or implying the corporation is organized for purposes other than those permitted by state law. It must be distinguishable from, and not the same as, deceptively similar to, or likely to be confused with or mistaken for any name granted, registered or reserved under chapter or with the Secretary of State.

Director information
The following are Vermont’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have three or more directors, unless the number of shareholders is less than three. Then the number of directors may be as few as the number of shareholders.
Residence requirements. Vermont does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Vermont does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Vermont is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Vermont’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Vermont. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Vermont allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Virginia

Corporate name
The name shall contain either the word or an abbreviation of “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company” or “Limited.” A period must be used after any abbreviations used in the corporate name. The name cannot use words in parentheses. The name shall not contain any prohibited word or phrase implying it is organized for any purpose other than that stated in the Articles of Incorporation. The name may not be confusingly similar to that of any domestic or qualified foreign corporation.

Director information
The following are Virginia’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Virginia does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Virginia does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Virginia is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Virginia’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Virginia. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Virginia allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Washington

Corporate name
The corporate name must include the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or the abbreviation “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Co.” or “Ltd.” The name must not imply a purpose other than the purpose stated in the Articles of Incorporation. It must be distinguishable from the name of any other domestic corporation or of any foreign corporation authorized to do business in state. The words “Bank,” “Loan” and “Home Loan” require approval from the Department of Financial Institutions. The word “Trust” cannot be used in a name. Use of the word “Co-Operative” is restricted.

Director information
The following are Washington’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Washington does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Washington does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Washington is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Washington’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Washington. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Initial report. Washington requires corporations to file an initial report within 120 days of incorporation.

Professional services businesses
Washington allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

West Virginia

Corporate name
The name must contain either the word or an abbreviation of “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or “Limited.” The name must not be the same as or deceptively similar to a name already in use by another existing corporation or foreign corporation qualified to do business in West Virginia without either written consent of the other corporation or a court order establishing the right of the applicant to use the name. The name must not imply a purpose other than that stated in the Articles of Incorporation.

Director information
The following are West Virginia’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. West Virginia does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. West Virginia does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in West Virginia is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. West Virginia’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in West Virginia. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
West Virginia allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

Wisconsin

Corporate name
The name of the corporation must contain the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or an abbreviation thereof, or words or abbreviations of words with similar meanings in another language. The word “Bank” and variations cannot be used, and use of the word “Cooperative” is restricted. The name may not contain language stating or implying the corporation is organized for a purpose other than as permitted in its Articles of Incorporation. It must be distinguishable upon the records of the Secretary of State from other corporations, limited liability companies and other business entities authorized to use the name in the state.

Director information.
The following are Wisconsin’s requirements for directors of corporations:

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Wisconsin does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Wisconsin does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Wisconsin is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Wisconsin’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Wisconsin. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Wisconsin allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC), which is called a Service Corporation (SC) in Wisconsin

Wyoming

Corporate name
Wyoming corporations are not required to use corporate name endings, such as the word “Incorporated” or the abbreviation “Inc.” The corporate name may not contain language implying a different purpose from the purpose or purposes in the Articles of Incorporation. The name shall not be the same as or similar to the name of any domestic or foreign for-profit or nonprofit corporation, trade name, trademark or service mark registered in this state, limited liability company, statutory trust company, limited partnership or other business entity. Use of the word “Trust” is restricted. Use of the words “Academy,” “Education,” “University” and “School” requires approval by the Department of Education.

Director information
The following are Wyoming’s requirements for directors of corporations

Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
Residence requirements. Wyoming does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
Age requirements. Wyoming does not have age requirements.
Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.

Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Wyoming is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Wyoming’s requirements include:

Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Wyoming. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses
Wyoming allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).

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Corporation formation requirements

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