What are the steps to file articles of incorporation in Minnesota?

What are Articles of Incorporation?

Articles of incorporation are a legal document that outlines the basic structure and organization of your company. This document is filed with the Minnesota Secretary of State's office and serves as the official record of your company's existence.

Why File Articles of Incorporation?

Filing articles of incorporation is an important step in setting up your company because it provides legal protection and helps to establish your company's identity. By filing articles of incorporation, you can:

• Protect your company's name and prevent others from using it
• Establish your company's legal existence and identity
• Provide a clear structure for your company's organization and management
• Enable you to issue stock and raise capital

How to File Articles of Incorporation in Minnesota

To file articles of incorporation in Minnesota, you'll need to follow these steps:

1. Choose a name for your company

   When choosing a name for your company, you'll need to ensure that it's unique and not already in use by another business. You can search the Minnesota Secretary of State's website to check if the name is available. If the name is available, you'll need to file a name reservation application with the Secretary of State's office.

2. Prepare the articles of incorporation document

   The articles of incorporation document should include the required information outlined above. You can use a template or hire a lawyer to help you prepare the document. It's essential to ensure that the document is accurate and complete before filing it with the Secretary of State's office.

3. File the articles of incorporation with the Minnesota Secretary of State's Office

   You can file the articles of incorporation online or by mail. Online filing is generally faster and more convenient, but you'll need to pay an additional fee for online filing. You'll need to provide the required information and pay the filing fee to complete the filing process.

4. Pay the filing fee

   The filing fee for articles of incorporation in Minnesota is currently $135. You can pay the fee online or by mail.

5. Obtain a federal tax ID number (if applicable)

   If your company will be issuing stock or raising capital, you'll need to obtain a federal tax ID number from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This number is also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN). You can apply for an EIN online or by mail.

Conclusion

Filing articles of incorporation in Minnesota is an important step in setting up your company. By following the correct procedures and providing the required information, you can ensure compliance with state laws and regulations and establish your company's identity.