How to Register a Corporation in the United States
Incorporating feels like a wall of paperwork, but the process is more standardized than most founders expect. The key decisions are front-loaded; the filings that follow are mostly mechanical.
You choose a state, pick a structure, appoint a registered agent, and file articles of incorporation. After approval you obtain an EIN and adopt bylaws to complete the setup.
- Delaware remains the most popular state for startups
- Articles of incorporation create the legal entity
- A registered agent receives official mail in the state
- An EIN from the IRS is required to open a bank account
Most founders can file directly in under an hour, or use a service for convenience. Get the foundational documents right at the start, because fixing ownership mistakes later costs far more.