Articles of Incorporation
Definition: The state filing that creates a corporation, also called a certificate of incorporation.
Articles of incorporation (a certificate of incorporation in Delaware and some other states) create a corporation. The filing typically names the corporation, its registered agent, the number and classes of shares it may issue, and the incorporator. Nonprofit articles add a purpose clause and rules for distributing assets on dissolution; see nonprofit corporation.
Why the fee is not always fixed
Several states tie the filing fee to the number of authorized shares. Delaware's schedule lists incorporation from $109 and notes that the amount varies with stock. Authorizing millions of shares can also raise a Delaware corporation's annual franchise tax under the authorized-shares method, which is why many startups recalculate under the assumed par value method. Details are on the Delaware guide.
The LLC equivalent is the Articles of Organization. A plain copy of filed articles is usually available from the state, and many states let you download it free from the business record.
Related: business entity types, annual report.
Articles of Incorporation questions
How do I look up articles of incorporation?
Open the corporation in its home state business search and check the filing history. Many states show the original document free; others sell copies.
Are articles of incorporation public?
Yes. Once filed with the state they are public records, though they rarely name shareholders.
Sources
- Delaware Division of Corporations fee schedule (August 1, 2026)
- Delaware Division of Corporations, franchise tax
- SBA, Register your business
Data Updated Recently