Do you want to start a business in the Peach State? If so, you’ll need to file articles of incorporation with the Georgia Secretary of State. In this article, we will provide an overview of the process of filing for corporate status in GA. We will also discuss the benefits of forming an LLC in Georgia.
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What is an Articles of Incorporation in Georgia
The Articles of Incorporation, also known as a Certificate of Incorporation or Corporate Charter, is the document that officially creates a corporation in the state of Georgia. It is filed with the Secretary of State’s office and must include certain information about the corporation, such as the corporate name, address, and contact information for the registered agent.
The Articles of Incorporation also specify the number of shares of stock that the corporation is authorized to issue, as well as the names and addresses of the directors. Once the Articles of Incorporation are filed, the corporation is officially formed and can start doing business in Georgia.
What are the benefits of having an Articles of Incorporation in Georgia
As a business owner, incorporating your business has a lot of benefits. It limits your personal liability, protects your assets, and makes it easier to raise capital. As a Georgia business owner, you have the option of filing Articles of Incorporation with the state. This document outlines the basic information about your business, such as the company name, address, and contact information. It also includes the names of the incorporators and the purpose of the corporation.
Filing Articles of Incorporation is the first step in forming a corporation in Georgia. Once you file, you will need to draft bylaws and elect a board of directors. These documents will help you run your corporation in a legal and efficient manner. By taking these steps, you can help your business succeed while protecting yourself from personal liability.
How to file for Articles of Incorporation with the state of Georgia
- Go to the Georgia Secretary of State website.
- Click on the link for “Business Entity Search.”
- Enter the name of the business you want to incorporate in the search box.
- Click on the link for the business you want to incorporate.
- Click on the “View” button next to the “Articles of Incorporation” document.
- Click on the “Download” button to download the Articles of Incorporation form.
- Fill out the Articles of Incorporation form and include any required attachments.
- Mail the completed form and attachments to:
- Georgia Secretary of State Corporation Division
- 2 Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive SE, Suite 313
- Atlanta, GA 30334-1530
- You will need to pay a filing fee when you submit the Articles of Incorporation. The current fee is $100. You can pay by check or money order made payable to the “Georgia Secretary of State.”
- Once the Articles of Incorporation are filed, you will need to take care of some additional steps to get your corporation up and running. You will need to draft bylaws, elect a board of directors, and hold an initial meeting of the board of directors.
- After taking these steps, your corporation will be officially formed and can start doing business in Georgia.
If you’re ready to incorporate your business in Georgia, follow the steps outlined in this part of the article. Filing Articles of Incorporation is the first step in the process. Once you have filed, you will need to take care of some additional steps to get your corporation up and running. But by taking these steps, you can help your business succeed while protecting yourself from personal liability.
What information must be included in your filing of Articles of Incorporation in Georgia
When you form a corporation in Georgia, you must file Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State. The Articles of Incorporation must include the following information:
- The name of the corporation.
- The duration of the corporation, which can be either perpetual or for a limited term.
- The names and addresses of the directors.
- The number of shares that the corporation is authorized to issue.
- The name and address of the registered agent.
Additionally, you must pay a filing fee and have your Articles of Incorporation signed by a Notary Public. Once your Articles of Incorporation are filed and approved, you will be able to officially start doing business as a corporation in Georgia.
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What to do after you’ve filed your Articles of Incorporation in Georgia
Congratulations on taking the first step towards starting your own business in Georgia! Once you’ve filed your Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State, there are a few more things you need to do to get your business up and running. First, you need to appoint a Board of Directors. The Board of Directors will be responsible for making decisions about the operation of the company.
Next, you need to determine what type of company you want to create. This will determine the governance structure of the company and how it will be taxed. Finally, you need to apply for any licenses or permits that may be required for your business. Once you’ve taken care of all these things, you’re ready to start doing business in Georgia.
What are some common mistakes people make when filing an Articles of Incorporation in Georgia
When forming a corporation in Georgia, it is important to follow the proper steps in order to ensure that the Articles of Incorporation are properly filed. Unfortunately, there are a number of common mistakes that people make when filing their Articles of Incorporation.
- One of the most common mistakes is failing to include all of the required information. The Articles of Incorporation must include the name and address of the corporation, the name and address of the registered agent, the duration of the corporation, and the names and addresses of the incorporators.
- Another common mistake is failing to properly sign and date the Articles of Incorporation. The documents must be signed by all of the incorporators and dated with the current date.
- Finally, many people make the mistake of not filing the Articles of Incorporation with the correct state agency. In Georgia, the Articles of Incorporation must be filed with the Secretary of State’s office.
By taking care to avoid these common mistakes, you can ensure that your corporation is properly formed.
Quick overview
If you’re looking to set up your business as a corporation in the state of Georgia, make sure you file for Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State. This document will provide protection and legitimacy for your company, and can be filed easily online. Be sure to include all required information in your filing, and take care not to make any common mistakes. After filing, don’t forget to complete additional steps like obtaining a tax ID number and registering with the Department of Revenue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get articles of incorporation in Georgia?
- Develop your own articles of incorporation.
- Download the Transmittal Form – Corporation (CD 227) from the Georgia Secretary of State website and fill it out.
- Submit the completed Articles of Incorporation, Transfer Form, and $110 registration fee to the Secretary of State’s Department of Corporations.
Do you need articles of incorporation for an LLC in Georgia?
To formally incorporate a limited liability company, you must file the Articles of Organization in Georgia. You can apply for an LLC online or by mail.
Do I need to register my business in Georgia?
You do not need to register your business in the state of Georgia unless you want to form a corporation, become a defined legal entity, or do business in the state.
James Rourke is a business and legal writer. He has written extensively on subjects such as contract law, company law, and intellectual property. His work has been featured in publications such as The Times, The Guardian, and Forbes. When he’s not writing, James enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf.
