What steps do I need to take to incorporate my business in the state of California?
By
In order to incorporate a business in the state of California, the following steps must be taken:
1. Choose a Name for Your Business: The name you choose must include one of the following words or an abbreviation thereof: Corporation (Corp.), Incorporated (Inc.) or Limited (Ltd.). In addition, your chosen name cannot conflict with any existing entity names on file with the Secretary of State. You can check availability by searching records at sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/.
2. Prepare and File Articles of Incorporation: This document must include information such as the corporate purpose, number and type of shares authorized for issuance, required address information for your corporation as well as details about its registered agent and directors. After preparing this form, it should be filed through mail or online with the California Secretary of State’s office along with applicable filing fees; currently $100 USD payable via check or money order made out to “Secretary of State” when filing by mail or via credit card when filing online at sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/.
It is important to note that charitable corporations may need additional documents in order to properly incorporate within California so please consult an attorney if this applies to you specifically before proceeding further.
3. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): An EIN is used by businesses for various purposes including opening bank accounts and reporting taxes on behalf of its employees; it functions like a social security number however it is only issued once per business entity regardless how many owners there might be associated with it thus making sure each business remains distinguishable from another even if they share ownership between them somehow.. To obtain an EIN you can apply online directly through IRS website irs . gov /ein or alternatively request one over telephone by calling 1–800–829–4933 but make sure have all necessary paperwork ready beforehand since applications are processed immediately upon submission either way – acceptance takes approximately four weeks though so please plan ahead accordingly depending what action needs done next after receiving confirmation everything was accepted successfully during initial application process itself...
4) Comply With Other Regulatory Requirements: Depending on your specific industry sector, there could potentially be other regulatory requirements imposed locally that need followed such obtaining local permits before commencing operations commercially etcetera - these will differ vastly based off where exactly located geographically speaking though so please consult resources available pertaining whatever jurisdiction which falls under personally ensure remain compliant all times while running company moving forward! Additionally note failure adhere certain rules regulations subject fines penalties enforceable law enforcement agencies involved too; being aware these key part avoiding trouble down line.. Finally consider contacting legal counsel specialized particular field advice help navigate complexities incorporation process overall avoid potential pitfalls entire venture altogether!
