Registering a corporation (Inc.) in the USA follows a process similar to forming an LLC, but with some important differences, especially in structure and legal requirements.

Here’s a clear breakdown:

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🇺🇸 How to Register a Corporation (Inc.) in the USA

✅ Step-by-Step Guide

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1. Choose the Type of Corporation

• C Corporation (C-Corp): Standard corporation, taxed separately from owners.

• S Corporation (S-Corp): Pass-through taxation, limited to 100 U.S. shareholders.

• Nonprofit Corporation: For charitable, educational, religious, or similar purposes.

📝 C-Corp is the most common type for startups and businesses looking for investment.

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2. Select a State of Incorporation

Popular states:

• Delaware: Preferred by investors, strong corporate law.

• Nevada: No corporate income tax, privacy.

• Wyoming: Low fees, privacy.

• Your home state: Best if you operate locally.

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3. Choose a Corporate Name

• Must be unique in the state of incorporation.

• Must include a corporate identifier like:
  “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or abbreviations like “Inc.”

• Search for name availability on the Secretary of State's website.

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4. Appoint a Registered Agent

• A registered agent receives legal and government notices.

• Must be located in the state of incorporation.

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5. File Articles of Incorporation

Sometimes called Certificate of Incorporation. Includes:

• Company name

• Registered agent

• Number of shares authorized

• Business purpose (sometimes optional)

📄 File with the Secretary of State
💵 Filing fees: Usually $100 – $300 depending on the state.

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6. Create Corporate Bylaws

Internal document that defines:

• Rules for operating the corporation

• Structure of the board of directors

• Voting rights and procedures

Not filed with the state, but essential for legal compliance.

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7. Appoint Directors and Hold First Board Meeting

• Initial directors are named.

• Approve bylaws, issue stock, and authorize a corporate bank account.

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8. Issue Stock Certificates

• Allocate shares to the initial shareholders.

• Maintain a stock ledger for record-keeping.

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9. Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

• Required for taxes, banking, and hiring.

• Free from the IRS: Apply online

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10. Comply with State and Federal Requirements

• File annual reports and pay franchise taxes (state-specific).

• Register for business licenses as needed.

• S-Corp election (Form 2553) if applicable (must be filed with the IRS).

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💰 Cost Overview

Item	Estimated Cost
Articles of Incorporation	$100 – $300
Registered Agent (Optional)	$0 – $150/year
EIN	Free
Bylaws & Meeting Docs	Free (DIY) or $50+
Annual Franchise Tax	Varies by state

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🔧 Popular Incorporation Services

Service	Starting Price	Features
LegalZoom	~$149 + fees	Trusted brand, full service
Incfile	$0 + fees	Free basic package, easy to use
Northwest	$39 + fees	Great privacy, strong support
ZenBusiness	$0–$199 + fees	Affordable, good for small biz

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🧑‍💼 Need Help?

Let me know:

• The state you want to incorporate in

• Whether you're forming a C-Corp, S-Corp, or Nonprofit

• If you'd like a comparison of online services or a walk-through of one

I can help you draft documents, choose services, or file online.