How to File DC Articles of Incorporation

Steve Bennett
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File DC Articles of Incorporation

While filing a new business, preferably a profit corporation in DC, one has to submit Articles of Incorporation. This is an important document that needs to be filled out by the owner with correct information regarding the company to be started. Forming a corporation in the state is a bit complex than starting an LLC in DC. In the following sections, you will get to read about the process, fees, and other related information to file the incorporation documents. It is recommended to consult or hire a professional service before starting a business.

Articles of Incorporation in DC

The Articles of Incorporation are a legal document required to be filed with the state government to legalize the creation of your corporation. In other words, filing these documents with the DC Secretary of State ensures the formation of the corporation in DC officially. Filing articles of incorporation is similar to filing the DC LLC Articles of Organization while forming your limited liability company in the state.

The state has some rules when it comes to filing Articles of Incorporation in DC, popularly known as the Nation’s Capital. We shared the step-by-step process here to file the incorporation document with the DC SOS. Checking with the SOS is recommended for more information.

It is always wise to consult a legal professional before you file your company under the DC SOS. FIling process can be easy, but it is sensitive. If you miss anything, it can totally stope the filing process.

– LLCBuddy Editorial Team

How to File DC Articles of Incorporation

You can file the Articles of Incorporation in several ways, depending on the state in which you are willing to start your corporation. In DC, you can file it in two ways, online and by mail. The details are similar to the details you need when forming an LLC. Here are the details you must submit while filing the documents-

Step 1: Get the Form and Enter the Details

The first thing to do is find the form (PDF or online), and fill it up with correct information. Get the form from the DC Secretary of State and send it back to the concerned department along with the filing fee.

The following are the details you must add to your incorporation form-

Name of the Entity

The first thing you need to do is submit your company’s name. Make sure to mention the exact name of the company that you decided on. Like the LLC naming guidelines, you must also follow the DC corporation naming requirements. There are a few points to note when you name your company. They are,

  • You cannot have a name used by other companies or businesses.
  • You cannot have any name that is misleading or the same as a government organization.
  • Banks, Insurance, Insurer, or any such names cannot be used as they reflect the financial organization.
  • You must add terms like corporation, limited, company, incorporated, or incorporation. You can also add abbreviations like co., ltd., inc., and corp instead of the above terms.

Address of the Corporation

The next section of the form is to provide your main address. It is necessary to have a physical street address in DC. For those running an online business, you must provide an address in the state (including your home address) where you will receive all the business and legal documents and mail. While sharing your address, make sure not to use abbreviations, such as N.Y. for New York or L.A. for Los Angeles.

DC Registered Agent

The next point is to provide information about the Registered Agent. The DC Registered Agent is an individual or business entity that is responsible for receiving all the legal and official documents on behalf of the company. They must be aged above 18 years and have the eligibility to conduct business in the state. The Registered Agent should be legit and experienced because, in case of any lawsuit, you need an expert to handle your issues. In most cases, the Registered Agent’s official address is the company’s official mailing address. If you form an LLC, hiring a registered agent is the most crucial step in the process.

Shares and Stocks

The next important information you must provide is about the stocks and shares. While filing the Articles of Incorporation, you must mention a minimum of one share. In DC, to start a corporation, you need at least three directors initially. When filing the incorporation documents, you must provide the number of directors in the corporation. It decides the ownership of the company.

If you amend the DC Articles of Incorporation in the future, you will not be able to change the initial directors. You might need an additional form to change the initial directors’ details. You must check with the DC SOS while filing the Articles of Incorporation amendment.

Additional Documents

You might need additional documents to submit along with the incorporation documents. In DC, you can attach a cover letter with the documents as an additional document. If you are willing to start a foreign corporation in DC, then you must add one document along with the Articles of Incorporation. Foreign corporations in DC must submit the DC Certificate of Good Standing along with the incorporation documents.

Signature

Finally, the signatures of the directors and shareholders are required on the form. You can have more than one share and be a director. All your initial directors must submit their official signature while filing the corporation in DC. Get their signatures to file the Articles of Incorporation.

Step 2: Submit the Articles of Incorporation in DC

Once you are done filling out the form, it is time for you to submit it. The form can be submitted in two ways, online and by mail. Checking with a legal professional or a formation service while filing your corporation is recommended. It is sensitive, and one mistake can stop the entire filing process immediately.

  • Online filing: Create an account/Log in to the SOS site, get the e-form, fill it out, and submit online. Or get the online PDF, fill it out, and upload it back on the site.
  • Offline filing: Send the form by mail to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division, P.O. Box 92300, Washington, D.C. 20090

Cost of Filing the Articles of Incorporation in DC

The cost of filing the Articles of Incorporation in DC is an important aspect to consider when starting a new business. This one-time fee is necessary for officially registering your corporation with the Secretary of State and can vary depending on the specific requirements and regulations of DC. In some cases, additional fees may be required for expedited processing or other optional services. It is crucial for entrepreneurs to budget for this expense and research the specific costs associated with their DC in order to ensure a smooth and successful incorporation process. To file the Articles of Incorporation in DC, you must pay a filing fee. The filing fee is $99 for online and mail filing.

FAQs

What is the process for filing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
To file Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Articles of Incorporation form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
What information needs to be included on the Articles of Incorporation for Washington, D.C.?
The Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C. must include the name of the corporation, the purpose of the corporation, the address of its principal office, the name and address of the registered agent, the duration of the corporation, the name and address of each incorporator, and the number of shares of stock the corporation is authorized to issue.
Where can I find the Articles of Incorporation form for Washington, D.C.?
The Articles of Incorporation form for Washington, D.C. can be found on the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs website.
How much does it cost to file Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
The filing fee for Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C. is $220.
How long does it take to process Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
It typically takes the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs about 2-4 weeks to process Articles of Incorporation.
Do I need to list a registered agent in the Articles of Incorporation for Washington, D.C.?
Yes, a registered agent must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation for Washington, D.C.
Can I change my registered agent after filing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you can change your registered agent after filing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C. by filing a form with the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
Can I file Articles of Incorporation electronically in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you can file Articles of Incorporation electronically in Washington, D.C. via the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Online Business Licensing Center.
Is there a filing fee for electronically filing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, the filing fee for electronically filing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C. is the same as for filing them by mail
What is the minimum number of incorporators required to file Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
The minimum number of incorporators required to file Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C. is one.
What are the requirements for naming a corporation in Washington, D.C.?
The name of a corporation in Washington, D.C. must not be the same as or deceptively similar to the name of any other corporation, limited partnership, or limited liability company on file with the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. The name must also not include any words prohibited by the D.C. statutory language or any words that imply government approval.
Can I reserve a corporate name for use in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you can reserve a corporate name for use in Washington, D.C. by submitting a name reservation form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. The name reservation fee is $30.
Are there any special requirements if the Articles of Incorporation are for a professional corporation in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, professional corporations in Washington, D.C. must include additional information in their Articles of Incorporation, such as the specific professional service being provided, any restrictions to the services provided, and the name of each professional who will be providing services on behalf of the corporation.
What is the difference between a for-profit corporation and a non-profit corporation in Washington, D.C.?
A for-profit corporation in Washington, D.C. exists to generate profits for its shareholders and owners. A non-profit corporation in Washington, D.C. exists to provide a public service or further a charitable or educational purpose and does not have shareholders or owners.
Can I file Articles of Incorporation with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in Washington, D.C.?
No, Articles of Incorporation must be filed with the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, not the IRS.
What is the process for amending Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
To amend Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Amendment form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
What is the process for withdrawing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
To withdraw Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Withdrawal form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
What is the process for dissolving a corporation in Washington, D.C.?
To dissolve a corporation in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Articles of Dissolution form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
Are there any special requirements for foreign corporations filing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, foreign corporations filing Articles of Incorporation in Washington, D.C. must provide additional information and may be required to register with the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
Are there any other documents required in addition to the Articles of Incorporation when filing in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you may be required to submit additional documents depending on the structure and purpose of your corporation. These may include a statement of authority, certificate of appointment, and a certificate of good standing.
Are there any additional fees in addition to the Articles of Incorporation filing fee in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you may be required to pay additional fees depending on the purpose and structure of your corporation. These may include fees for name reservations, amendments, withdrawals, and dissolutions.
What is the process for filing a statement of authority in Washington, D.C.?
To file a statement of authority in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Statement of Authority form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
What is the process for filing a certificate of appointment in Washington, D.C.?
To file a certificate of appointment in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Certificate of Appointment form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
What is the process for filing a certificate of good standing in Washington, D.C.?
To file a certificate of good standing in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Certificate of Good Standing form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
Do I need to file an annual report for my corporation in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, all corporations in Washington, D.C. are required to file an annual report with the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. The filing fee is $220.
What is the process for filing an annual report in Washington, D.C.?
To file an annual report in Washington, D.C., you must submit the completed Annual Report form to the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations Division. The filing fee is $220.
Is there a fee for late filing of the annual report in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, there is a late filing fee of $100 for the annual report in Washington, D.C. if it is filed more than 30 days after the due date.
Is there a penalty for failure to file an annual report in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, failure to file an annual report in Washington, D.C. can result in a penalty of up to $1000.
Can I file the annual report electronically in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, you can file the annual report electronically in Washington, D.C. via the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Online Business Licensing Center.
How do I file Articles of Incorporation in DC?
To form a business entity in the District of Columbia, you must file Articles of Incorporation with the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA).
What information is required for filing Articles of Incorporation in DC?
The Articles of Incorporation must include the company name, principal office address, registered agent name and address, corporate purpose, corporate duration, and the names and addresses of directors.
What fees are associated with filing Articles of Incorporation in DC?
The DCRA charges a $220 filing fee for Articles of Incorporation.
How long does it take to file Articles of Incorporation in DC?
It usually takes 4-7 business days for the DCRA to process Articles of Incorporation.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the process of filing DC Articles of Incorporation is a crucial step for businesses looking to establish their presence in the state. This legal document serves as the foundation of the company’s structure and outlines essential information, such as the company’s name, purpose, and management team. To ensure a smooth and successful filing process, it is vital for business owners to familiarize themselves with the State of DC’s requirements, adhere to the applicable laws and regulations, and provide accurate and complete information in the Articles of Incorporation.

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