How to File Missouri Articles of Incorporation


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
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File Missouri Articles of Incorporation

Incorporating a business is essential for entrepreneurs looking to establish their venture as a separate legal entity. By filing Articles of Incorporation, business owners in Missouri can enjoy myriad benefits, such as limited liability, tax advantages, and increased credibility. However, the incorporation process may seem daunting for many, especially those not well-versed in the legal intricacies of their state. This article is a comprehensive guide on how to file Missouri Articles of Incorporation, taking you through the necessary steps and requirements to establish your corporation successfully.

Whether you are a startup founder or a seasoned business owner, understanding the process of filing Articles of Incorporation in Missouri, popularly known as The Show-Me State, is crucial for the seamless formation of your corporation. The following sections will outline the paperwork, fees, and registration procedures specific to Missouri, along with tips on navigating potential roadblocks and ensuring your application is approved. Let’s dive in and explore the ins and outs of incorporating your business in Missouri.

What is Articles of Incorporation in Missouri?

The Articles of Incorporation is a legal document required to file with the state government to legalize the creation of your corporation. In other words, filing these documents with the Missouri Secretary of State ensures the formation of the corporation in Missouri officially. The Articles of Incorporation is similar to filing the Missouri LLC Articles of Organization while filing an LLC in Missouri.

Missouri, also known as The Show-Me State, has some rules when it comes to file the Articles of Incorporation. We shared the step-by-step process here to file the incorporation document with the Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Missouri Articles of Incorporation

You can file the Articles of Incorporation in several ways based on the state you are willing to start your corporation. In Missouri, you can file it in two method that is filing online, or 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 step is to get the Articles of Incorporation form from the Missouri Secretary of State. You will get both offline and online forms on the site, as available. You must pay the $50 fo filing online, $105 for filing by mail when submitting the form. 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 Missouri corporation naming requirements too. 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 government organizations.
  • 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 Missouri. For those running an online business, you must provide any 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.

Missouri Registered Agent

The next point is to provide information about the Registered Agent. The Missouri 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 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 Missouri, to start a corporation, you need at least Three director(s) initially. When filing the incorporation documents, you must provide the share of directors in the corporation. It decides the ownership of the company.

If you amend Missouri 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 Missouri SOS while filing the Articles of Incorporation amendment.

Additional Documents

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

Signature

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

Step 2: Submit the Articles of Incorporation in Missouri

Once you are done filling up the form, now it is time for you to submit it. The form can be submitted in two method that is filing online, or 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 online form, fill it, and submit online
  • Offline filing: Send the form by mail or drop it off in person to Corporations Unit, James C. Kirkpatrick State Information Center, P.O. Box 778, Jefferson City, MO 65102

Cost of Filing the Articles of Incorporation in Missouri

The cost of filing the Articles of Incorporation in Missouri 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 Missouri. 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 Missouri in order to ensure a smooth and successful incorporation process. To file the Articles of Incorporation in Missouri, you must pay a filing fee. The filing fee is $50 fo filing online, $105 for filing by mail.

FAQs

What is an Article of Incorporation in Missouri?
Articles of incorporation are the official documents that are filed with the Missouri Secretary of State in order to create a Missouri corporation.
How do I file my Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
You can file your Articles of Incorporation with the Missouri Secretary of State online, by mail, or in-person.
What information do I need to file my Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
You will need to provide the name of your corporation, the name and address of the incorporator, the number of shares the corporation is authorized to issue, the name and address of the registered agent, and the purpose of the corporation.
What are the fees associated with filing my Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
The filing fee for filing your Articles of Incorporation in Missouri is currently $50.
What are the steps to filing my Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
The steps to filing your Articles of Incorporation are
How long does it take for my Missouri Articles of Incorporation to be approved?
It usually takes the Missouri Secretary of State about 10-15 business days to process your Articles of Incorporation.
What is a registered agent in Missouri?
A registered agent is a person or entity who is authorized to receive service of process on behalf of your corporation. They must have a physical street address in Missouri.
What are the legal requirements for a Missouri corporation?
Missouri corporations are required to hold annual shareholders meetings, keep detailed records of business activities, maintain a registered agent in the state, and to file annual reports with the Secretary of State.
Is there a minimum number of directors required for a Missouri corporation?
No, there is no minimum number of directors required for a Missouri corporation.
Is there a minimum number of shareholders required for a Missouri corporation?
No, there is no minimum number of shareholders required for a Missouri corporation.
What is a Corporate Bylaw in Missouri?
A Corporate Bylaw is a document that outlines the rules and regulations for a Missouri corporation. It includes information such as the number of directors, duties of officers, voting rights, and other important information.
What is a Company Operating Agreement in Missouri?
A Company Operating Agreement is a document that outlines the rights, responsibilities and duties of the shareholders, directors and officers of a Missouri corporation.
Do I need to file my Corporate Bylaws and Operating Agreement with the Missouri Secretary of State?
No, you do not need to file your Corporate Bylaws or Operating Agreement with the Missouri Secretary of State. These documents are for internal use only and are not public documents.
Do I need to register my Missouri corporation with the IRS?
Yes, you will need to register your corporation with the IRS in order to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
What are the tax filing requirements for a Missouri corporation?
All Missouri corporations are required to file an annual report with the Missouri Secretary of State. The corporation must also file federal and state income tax returns.
How do I obtain my Employer Identification Number (EIN) for my Missouri corporation?
You can obtain your EIN by submitting an application to the IRS.
How often do I have to file my Missouri corporation’s annual report?
All Missouri corporations must file an annual report with the Secretary of State by the 15th day of the 4th month following the end of the corporation’s fiscal year.
How do I make changes to my Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
You can make changes to your Articles of Incorporation by filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Missouri Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to file a Certificate of Amendment in Missouri?
The filing fee for a Certificate of Amendment in Missouri is currently $15.
What is a dissolution of a Missouri corporation?
A dissolution of a Missouri corporation is the process of officially terminating the corporation.
How do I dissolve a Missouri corporation?
You can dissolve a Missouri corporation by filing a Certificate of Dissolution with the Secretary of State.
What is a foreign corporation in Missouri?
A foreign corporation is a corporation that is registered in another state, but wishes to do business in Missouri.
How do I register my foreign corporation in Missouri?
You can register your foreign corporation in Missouri by filing an Application for Authority with the Missouri Secretary of State.
What are the benefits of forming a corporation in Missouri?
The benefits of forming a corporation in Missouri include limited liability protection for the owners, easy access to capital markets, and tax advantages.
Are there any restrictions on the types of businesses that can be formed in Missouri?
No, there are no restrictions on the types of businesses that can be formed in Missouri.
Can I form a corporation in Missouri without a lawyer?
Yes, you can form a corporation in Missouri without a lawyer. However, it is recommended that you consult with an attorney to ensure that all of your legal requirements are met.
Do I need to have a physical office in Missouri to form a corporation?
No, you do not need to have a physical office in Missouri to form a corporation.
How long does it take to form a Missouri corporation?
It usually takes about two to three weeks to form a Missouri corporation.
What is required to file Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
The filing requirements for Missouri Articles of Incorporation include the names and addresses of the incorporators, the name of the corporation, the purpose of the corporation, the type of stock to be issued, the number of shares to be authorized and the address of the registered office.
What are the filing fees for Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
The filing fee for Missouri Articles of Incorporation is $50.00.
How long does it take to form a corporation in Missouri?
It typically takes about 5-7 business days for the Missouri Secretary of State to approve the Articles of Incorporation.
Are there any ongoing requirements to maintain a corporation in Missouri?
Yes, corporations in Missouri must file an Annual Report each year with the Secretary of State’s office. They must also pay an annual franchise tax.
What is the advantage of forming a corporation in Missouri?
Forming a corporation in Missouri can provide limited liability protection for its shareholders, as well as the ability to attract new investors and access to additional funding sources.
What are the Corporate Laws in Missouri?
The Corporate Laws in Missouri are outlined in the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 351.
Where can I find more information about filing Missouri Articles of Incorporation?
You can find more information about filing Missouri Articles of Incorporation on the Missouri Secretary of State website.

Also Read

Why Missouri Articles of Incorporation is So Important

One of the key reasons why the Missouri Articles of Incorporation is so important is because it helps to legally separate your business from yourself as an individual. By incorporating your business, you are creating a separate legal entity that is distinct from its owners. This separation provides protection for your personal assets in the event that your business faces legal action or financial troubles. Without the protection offered by incorporation, your personal assets could be at risk if your business incurs debts or gets sued.

Additionally, the Articles of Incorporation is important because it helps to define the structure and operations of your business. This document typically includes information such as the name of the corporation, the purpose of the business, the registered agent, and the names of the directors and officers. By clearly outlining these details in the Articles of Incorporation, you ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page regarding the goals and management of the business.

Furthermore, filing the Articles of Incorporation in Missouri is a necessary step for gaining certain legal benefits and protections. For example, incorporating your business can provide tax advantages, such as the ability to deduct certain business expenses. Additionally, being a corporation can lend credibility to your business and make it more attractive to potential investors or partners. Without the formal recognition provided by the Articles of Incorporation, your business may miss out on these important benefits.

In addition to the legal and financial advantages of the Missouri Articles of Incorporation, this document also plays a role in establishing trust and transparency with customers and stakeholders. By officially registering your business with the state and providing a clear outline of its structure and operations, you signal to others that you are serious about your business and committed to operating in a professional manner. This can go a long way in building confidence in your brand and attracting customers who are looking for reputable companies to do business with.

In conclusion, while the Missouri Articles of Incorporation may not be the most exciting aspect of starting a business, its importance cannot be overlooked. This document serves as the legal foundation for your business, protecting your personal assets, defining your business structure, and providing access to important benefits and protections. By understanding and taking the necessary steps to file the Articles of Incorporation, you are laying the groundwork for a successful and legally compliant business in Missouri.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the process of filing Missouri 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 Missouri’s requirements, adhere to the applicable laws and regulations, and provide accurate and complete information in the Articles of Incorporation.

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