How to Form a Professional Corporation in Colorado


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

All Posts by Steve Goldstein →
Business Formation Expert  |   Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Last updated: 
LLCBuddy™ offers informative content for educational purposes only, not as a substitute for professional legal or tax advice. We may earn commissions if you use the services we recommend on this site.
At LLCBuddy, we don't just offer information; we provide a curated experience backed by extensive research and expertise. Led by Steve Goldstein, a seasoned expert in the LLC formation sector, our platform is built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the nuances involved in establishing and running an LLC. We've navigated the intricacies of the industry, sifted through the complexities, and packaged our knowledge into a comprehensive, user-friendly guide. Our commitment is to empower you with reliable, up-to-date, and actionable insights, ensuring you make informed decisions. With LLCBuddy, you're not just getting a tutorial; you're gaining a trustworthy partner for your entrepreneurial journey.
Form a Professional Corporation in Colorado

Are you considering starting a professional corporation in Colorado? Congratulations! Establishing a professional corporation is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs and professionals alike who seek to benefit from a business structure that provides limited liability protection, tax advantages, and enhanced credibility. However, navigating the process of forming a professional corporation in Colorado can be daunting.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to form a professional corporation in Colorado, covering everything from understanding the basics of this business entity to the essential steps and requirements you must comply with to launch your new venture successfully. Let’s dive in and explore the ins and outs of forming a professional corporation in Colorado!

What is a Professional Corporation in Colorado?

A professional service corporation (PSC), sometimes called a professional corporation (abbreviated as PC), is a type of organization authorized by state law to allow owners of particularly licensed professions in Colorado. The owner of a professional corporation is responsible for their own negligence or misconduct, but they are not held personally accountable for the actions of other owners. PC or P.C. is a regularly used abbreviation to identify professional corporations.

PCs and LLCs provide personal asset protection; that is, the personal assets are free from business debts. However, they do not have similar tax benefits. There is no secret formula as to which type of business structure is better than the other. It solely depends on the requirements of your business. However, forming an LLC is easier than setting up a PC in Colorado.

LLCBuddy Editorial Team

Unlike other types of corporations, owners of Professional Corporations get two types of citizenship. One is where they incorporated the corporation, and the other is where they conduct the business. This benefit is not available for other types of corporations. You can form a free LLC in Colorado if you hire a professional service that provides LLC formation at $0.

How to Form a Professional Corporation in Colorado

To form a Professional Corporation for the professional service you provide, you must follow a few steps that include verifying if you are qualified for a PC, naming your business, hiring a Registered Agent, filing the Articles of Incorporation, outlining an operating agreement, requesting for an EIN, opening a bank account, getting a business license, and filing for an annual report and taxes.

Step 1: Verify If You Are Qualified for a Professional Corporation

In forming a professional corporation in Colorado, you should know if you are qualified. There are specific professions that are allowed to form a professional service corporation, including-

  • Doctors
  • Architects
  • Engineers
  • Accountants
  • Lawyers and others

You should be qualified to have a license to provide your service. In most cases, once you have graduated with your studies, passed the exam, and got your license, you may now form a professional corporation. However, if you work in an industry that doesn’t offer a license or professional certification, you should consider forming a corporation or limited liability company.

Step 2: Name your Professional Corporation in Colorado

After you have decided on the idea to form a professional corporation in Colorado, deciding the name for your corporation is significant. There is a complete guide on Colorado LLC name guidelines for you to have a proper business name. Here are some regulations you must follow while naming your professional corporation.

  • The business name should have the word PC, frequently followed by the name of the principal owner in place of Inc or LLC. (Example. John Doe, MD, PC)
  • No confusion with a government entity name.
  • A unique name is needed with no match
  • Limit of restricted words that need a license.

In Colorado, if you do not wish to file your professional corporation right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your corporation name for 120 days. To keep the name, you must file a name reservation application with Colorado Secretary of State.

A professional corporation, professional association, service corporation, or professional service corporation must be present in the name if it doesn’t already. You might opt to register your business under a different legal name if your preferred name isn’t available. Once you have chosen a name, you can submit an application for a DBA (doing business as). In this manner, you can choose any name you desire to run a clinic or law firm.

Step 3: Choose the Colorado Registered Agent

The next step in forming a professional corporation is hiring the Colorado Registered Agent, a person that accepts legal paperwork on behalf of your business. This person or business will receive important tax forms, legal documents, all notices of lawsuits, and other official government correspondence in Colorado. Forming a professional corporation for your service will be easier if you have Registered Agent in Colorado.

Alternatively, you can serve as your own Colorado Registered Agent if you have the time. However, you must stay compliant to avoid missing any important documents from Colorado.

Step 4: File the Articles of Incorporation in Colorado

After you hire a Colorado Registered Agent to form a professional corporation, the next step is to file the Colorado Articles of Incorporation. In writing the Articles of Incorporation, the business name, owner’s contact information, corporation address, and Registered Agent contact information should be written. You should also include the names of all co-owners. All owners have to prove they have the proper license to practice the specific profession they intend to.

Filing the Articles of Incorporation in Colorado may be done with one method that is filing online. The Articles of Incorporation fee may vary from different states. However, in Colorado, it costs $50 for filing online . Get the online form from Secretary of State, fill it up, and submit. Don’t refresh the page during the process. It will erase everything. . For offline filing, There’s no offline method of filing the documents.

Step 5: Write an Operating Agreement in Colorado

An operating agreement is a document that contains all of your company’s organizational details. It is not required to draft an operating agreement in most states. Yet, having one as an internal document is strongly advised. The Colorado operating agreement includes information like-

  1. About Business
  2. Members and management
  3. Capital contribution
  4. Profit Distribution
  5. Change of membership
  6. Dissolution

Step 6: Designate the PC Board of Directors in Colorado

The next step is to appoint the initial board of directors in your PC in Colorado. All the initial directors must submit their details to the owner. The owner must keep the records and submit them in accordance with the Colorado SOS. When writing the By-laws, as a shareholder and owner, you must make sure there is a point mentioned about appointing a new director later.

Step 7: Write the Corporate Bylaws

Now that you are done forming the team of the board of directors, the next step is to draft corporate bylaws. Corporate bylaws are the basic rules that control a corporation. It includes the organization’s structure, processes, laws, and rules. As a result, all personnel, managers, and corporation members must obey the firm’s rules.

In creating corporate bylaws, you should include the following on how the decisions will be made.

  • The responsibilities are given to each officer.
  • How will judgments in business be made?
  • Where and when are the annual shareholder meetings?
  • The minimum number of shareholders required for decision-making.
  • Location and timing of dividend payments.

Step 8: Hold the First Board of Directors’ Meeting

After drafting the corporate bylaws, gather all the board of directors for the first meeting. This meeting will be finalized by appointing directors to manage the company’s daily operations, approve the bylaws, choose the corporation’s accounting year, and approve the stock issue. All board meetings should have minutes taken and stored with the company’s records.

Step 9: Request an EIN in Colorado

After documenting the operating agreement, you should get or request an Employer Identification Number (EIN). An EIN will serve as the tax ID for your professional corporation. EIN can be obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is a 9-digit number similar to Social Security Number. EIN, however, is distinct from SSN. It is only used for business-related activities, particularly for submitting general taxes. The form must be completed and uploaded to the IRS website.

The application of an EIN in Colorado can be through the following:

  • Apply Online- The online EIN application is the preferred method for customers to apply for and obtain an EIN.
  • Apply by Fax- Taxpayers can fax the completed Form SS-4 application to the appropriate fax number), after ensuring that the Form SS-4 contains all of the required information.
  • Apply by Mail- The EIN application Form SS-4 can be filed via mail. The processing time frame to receive the mail is 4 weeks.
  • Apply by Telephone-International Applicants – International applicants may call 267-941-1099 (not a toll-free number) from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday to obtain their EIN.

After you have your EIN number, you can benefit in a number of ways. It will give your professional corporation the final advantage necessary to operate at full capacity without encountering legal or judicial issues.

Step 10: Open a Bank Account and Prepare for Taxes

Once you have filed and received your Employer Identification Number, you should open a bank account since you will use this account for yourself, your clients, and your employees.

Your business dealings in Colorado might be simpler by having a US business bank account because it boosts your company’s legitimacy and liquidity. For firms other than sole proprietorships, most banks demand an EIN to create a business bank account. Also, keeping separate finances helps you avoid combining personal and professional finances. Also, having an EIN makes tax preparation easier. With a professional corporation, you can anticipate paying employment and corporate taxes.

Step 11: Get a Business License in Colorado

Before your professional corporation operates in Colorado, you need to have a business license first. A business license is a formal document issued by the state government agency that allows you to operate your business in the geographic region that that agency governs. In Colorado, business license and permit costs depend on the business’s nature and type. You must check with the local authorities if any special licenses or city-based permits are needed.

Step 12: File Your Taxes in Colorado

Finally, you are down to the last step. After getting a business license and being ready to operate, do not forget to file your taxes first. You should start paying taxes quarterly as soon as possible to avoid a large tax bill. Each state has different tax requirements. Go through the Colorado classification of taxes for the taxes an LLC in Colorado has to pay.

Important Information

Maintaining Professional and Business License in Colorado

Now that you have established your professional corporation, you must maintain or renew your professional license every now and then. Even if your business is established but you don’t have a valid license to operate, your business is irrelevant. And, even if your professional license is still valid for a year or two, but your business license is already expired, it is still irrelevant.

Make time to check the status of your licenses at least once per year. Then, you can keep from missing anything significant. If there are any issues, you can address them.

Filing an Annual Report in Colorado

In Colorado, you will be required to submit a report each year. The owners’ and Registered Agent’s names and contact details are listed in the annual report. Also, it should include all of your yearly financial activity. You must submit one yearly in Colorado, and you can do it yourself or hire someone else to handle it. Everything must be precise and up to date.

Advantages of Forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado

A professional corporation takes a lot of time to process and pursue. However, with the help of the Colorado Registered Agent, everything will become easier. In fact, there are advantages that will help you form a professional corporation in Colorado.

  1. Limited Liability: The biggest advantage of setting up a professional corporation is that the owners are not held personally responsible for the debts and obligations of the company. This indicates that only the company’s assets will be confiscated to settle claims and creditors if the business is sued or declares bankruptcy. Additionally, this protection exempts corporate owners from being held accountable for other owners’ reckless or criminally negligent acts.
  1. Tax Deductions: Similar company expenses, such as employee fringe benefits, startup and operating costs, and equipment purchases, can be written off by professional companies in the same ways they can be for other kinds of firms. However, there are several tax deductions professional corporations can take advantage of that other types of businesses can’t. For example, the salaries and bonuses paid to owners and employees are tax-deductible.
  1. Retained Earnings: Professional corporations can keep a portion of their profits under the corporate tax system to grow their companies.

FAQs

What are the requirements to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
To form a Professional Corporation in Colorado, you must have at least one incorporator who is a Colorado resident, at least one stockholder, a registered agent with a Colorado address, a name that is different from any existing business entity in Colorado and the Secretary of State must approve the Articles of Incorporation.
How long does it take to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
The formation process usually takes about 10-15 business days.
How much does it cost to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
The cost to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado is $50 for filing the Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State and $10 for the name reservation.
Who is eligible to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
Any licensed professional can form a Professional Corporation in Colorado as long as they meet the requirements set by the Secretary of State.
What documents are required to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
The documents required to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado include Articles of Incorporation, Operating Agreement, and a registered agent.
What are the benefits of forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
Forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado can provide liability protection for its owners, help to maintain professional standards, raise capital, and help with succession planning.
Are there any tax benefits to forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
Yes, forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado can provide tax benefits such as pass-through taxation and the ability to deduct business expenses from your taxes.
What is the annual filing requirement for Professional Corporations in Colorado?
Professional Corporations in Colorado must file an annual report with the Secretary of State each year.
What are the ongoing requirements for Professional Corporations in Colorado?
Professional Corporations in Colorado are required to keep accurate records of their finances, hold regular meetings and keep minutes of those meetings, and keep their registered agent up-to-date.
What is a professional corporation in Colorado?
A professional corporation in Colorado is a business corporation formed for the purpose of providing professional services.
What kinds of businesses can form a professional corporation in Colorado?
In Colorado, professional corporations can be formed by individuals or entities engaged in certain professions, including lawyers, certified public accountants, licensed medical professionals, architects, and professional engineers.
What are the benefits of forming a professional corporation in Colorado?
Forming a professional corporation in Colorado can provide several benefits, such as limited liability protection and the ability to attract investors. Additionally, professional corporations can also provide tax advantages, such as the ability to deduct certain business expenses.
How do I form a professional corporation in Colorado?
To form a professional corporation in Colorado, you must first file the proper documents with the Colorado Secretary of State. You must also provide information about the corporation, including the name, address, and purpose of the business. Additionally, you must also designate a registered agent in the state.
What documents do I need to form a professional corporation in Colorado?
To form a professional corporation in Colorado, you must file Articles of Incorporation with the Colorado Secretary of State, which must include the corporation’s name, purpose, and other information. Additionally, you may also need to file a Statement of Authority, which specifies the names and addresses of the corporation’s directors and officers.
What is the cost of forming a professional corporation in Colorado?
The cost of forming a professional corporation in Colorado varies, depending on the type and number of documents filed. Generally, the cost is between $50 and $100.
What is a registered agent in Colorado?
A registered agent in Colorado is an individual or entity designated by a business to receive legal documents, such as summons and complaints, on behalf of the business. A registered agent must have a physical address in the state and be available during normal business hours.
How do I select a registered agent in Colorado?
To select a registered agent in Colorado, you can use a professional service or an individual, such as an attorney or the company’s officers. The registered agent must have a physical address in the state and be available during normal business hours.
Do I need to file annual reports in Colorado?
Yes, all businesses organized in Colorado, including professional corporations, must file an annual report with the Colorado Secretary of State. The annual report must include information about the business, such as its name, address, and registered agent.
What are the other requirements for professional corporations in Colorado?
In addition to filing the necessary documents with the Colorado Secretary of State, professional corporations in Colorado must also maintain corporate records, such as meeting minutes and financial records. Additionally, professional corporations must also adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.
What is a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
A Professional Corporation in Colorado is a legal business entity that allows professionals in certain industries to incorporate their practice in order to limit their personal liability and protect their assets.
What industries can form a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
In Colorado, Professional Corporations are limited to professions regulated by state law such as accounting, architecture, engineering, law, medicine, optometry, and veterinary medicine.
What is the process for forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
The process for forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado involves filing the Articles of Incorporation with the Colorado Secretary of State, drafting Corporate Bylaws and Operating Agreements, and obtaining any necessary local or state licenses.
What are the tax implications of forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
A Professional Corporation in Colorado is subject to Colorado’s corporate income tax and franchise tax. Additionally, shareholders may be subject to federal and Colorado individual income taxes on the dividends and other distributions they receive.
What are the requirements for forming a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
In order to form a Professional Corporation in Colorado, the Articles of Incorporation must include the name of the corporation, its purpose, the name and address of the registered agent, the names and addresses of the incorporators, and the name and address of each director, officer, and shareholder.
What is the liability of shareholders in a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
In a Professional Corporation in Colorado, shareholders are generally not liable for the debts, obligations, and liabilities of the corporation. However, shareholders may be personally liable for their own wrongful acts or omissions.
What are the reporting requirements for a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
A Professional Corporation in Colorado must file an annual report with the Colorado Secretary of State, and may be required to file additional documents and reports with the Secretary of State or other local or state agencies.
Does a Professional Corporation in Colorado need to have an operating agreement?
While an operating agreement is not required for a Professional Corporation in Colorado, it is highly recommended to ensure the corporation is managed in accordance with the shareholders’ wishes, and to clearly delineate the rights and responsibilities of the shareholders, directors, and officers.
Does a Professional Corporation in Colorado need to hold meetings?
Yes, a Professional Corporation in Colorado must hold meetings of the shareholders, directors, and officers in accordance with the Corporate Bylaws and Operating Agreement.
What is the process for dissolving a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
The process for dissolving a Professional Corporation in Colorado involves filing Articles of Dissolution with the Colorado Secretary of State, notifying creditors, and distributing remaining assets to shareholders.
What is the statute of limitations for a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
The statute of limitations for a Professional Corporation in Colorado is governed by Colorado law and varies depending on the type of claim.
Can a Professional Corporation in Colorado have foreign shareholders?
Yes, a Professional Corporation in Colorado can have foreign shareholders, although it may be subject to additional requirements under Colorado or federal law.
What are the requirements for naming a Professional Corporation in Colorado?
The name of a Professional Corporation in Colorado must include the words “Professional Corporation,” “P.C.,” or “PC” and must be distinguishable from other business entities registered in Colorado.

Also Read

Why Colorado Professional Corporation is So Important

One of the key reasons why professional corporations are essential is the expertise and specialization they offer. Professionals within these corporations have spent years honing their skills and knowledge in specific disciplines, enabling them to provide specialized services that cater to the unique needs of their clients. This expertise is crucial in ensuring that individuals and businesses receive solutions that are tailored to their specific requirements and challenges.

Moreover, professional corporations play a vital role in promoting innovation and excellence within their respective industries. By bringing together top talents and fostering a collaborative environment, these organizations encourage creativity, experimentation, and the sharing of best practices. This culture of innovation ensures that professionals stay at the forefront of their fields, continuously enhancing their skills and capabilities to deliver cutting-edge solutions to their clients.

Professional corporations also contribute significantly to the economy of Colorado and its job market. By providing employment opportunities to skilled professionals, these organizations help to drive economic growth and create a thriving business environment. The services they offer also attract clients from different states and countries, bringing in revenue and contributing to the state’s economic prosperity.

Furthermore, professional corporations are crucial for upholding ethical standards and professionalism within their industries. These organizations typically have stringent codes of conduct and regulations in place to ensure that their members adhere to the highest ethical standards while delivering services. This dedication to professionalism not only benefits their clients but also enhances the reputation of the industry as a whole, fostering trust and credibility among stakeholders.

In addition to these benefits, professional corporations also play a critical role in furthering the education and development of their members. By offering continuing education programs, mentorship opportunities, and networking events, these organizations help professionals stay current with industry trends and build relationships with peers and industry experts. This investment in professional development not only benefits the individuals but also helps to raise the overall standard of service delivery within the industry.

In conclusion, Colorado Professional Corporation is a vital entity that plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, promoting excellence, upholding ethical standards, and fostering professional development within the state. The services they offer are essential for individuals and businesses seeking specialized, high-quality solutions, and their contributions have far-reaching impacts on the state’s economy and job market. As such, it is imperative to recognize and support the important role that professional corporations play in shaping Colorado’s business landscape and ensuring the well-being of its residents.

Conclusion

In forming a professional corporation in Colorado, having someone to help you build it is not necessary but suggestible. Even though it is easy because of the listed benefits and advantages above, forming your group of professional individuals will make it somehow successful. Just make sure to be guided by the steps and ensure that every one of the details and records is accurate and precise. And if you have any questions, share them in the comment section below.

Leave a Comment