What are Articles of Incorporation and ByLaws?
A Corporation’s “Articles of Incorporation” is the main filing document which begins the corporation’s existence under state law. The level of complexity for a corporation’s Articles of Incorporation can range from very simple to extremely complex. Generally, most jurisdictions require Articles of incorporation to contain, at a minimum, information about the Corporate Name, the Registered Agent, and the Corporation’s business address. Requirements vary by state. Any changes to the corporation’s Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws must be approved by BOTH the Shareholders and Directors. Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation must then be filed with the Secretary of State in the state of incorporation for the amendments to become effective. Some states also require corporations to file a notarized affidavit, which verifies the number of outstanding shares at the time of the vote. Bylaws serve as the internal operating document for the corporation. Generally, Bylaws detail the respon
(back to top) A Corporation’s “Articles of Incorporation” is the main filing document which begins the corporation’s existence under state law. Once filed, the corporation comes into existence. The level of complexity for a corporation’s Articles of Incorporation can range from very simple to extremely complex. Generally, most jurisdictions require Articles of incorporation to contain, at a minimum, information about the Corporate Name, the Registered Agent, and the Corporation’s business address. Requirements vary by state. Any changes to the corporation’s Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws must be approved by BOTH the Shareholders and Directors. Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation must then be filed with the Secretary of State in the state of incorporation for the amendments to become effective. Some states also require corporations to file a notarized affidavit, which verifies the number of outstanding shares at the time of the vote. Bylaws serve as the internal operating d
Related Questions
- How can I obtain the Association Documents (Master Deed, Bylaws, Articles of Incorporation and Covenants Conditions and Restrictions)?
- Can a committee make changes to the Bylaws, Articles of Incorporation or make other substantial changes to the organization?
- What is the difference between bylaws and articles of incorporation?
