Starting a business is a major undertaking that requires numerous steps before you’re officially ready to begin operation. One of the most important among them is obtaining a Certificate of Incorporation (or articles of incorporation, depending on which state you’re in) and filing it with the Secretary of State. A Certificate of Incorporation is essentially a document that informs the Secretary of State officially that a business exists, and can be used as proof that the business is a legitimate, legally-organized entity. It sets forth the purpose, structure, and ownership of the business and serves as a document of reference that can be used by the businesses’ attorneys and other legal professionals in the future. This article will provide answers to some frequently asked questions about obtaining a Certificate of Incorporation in the state of New York.

What is a Certificate of Incorporation?

A Certificate of Incorporation is the official document that is filed with the Secretary of State to officially create a corporation in the state of New York. It includes the corporate name, address, information about the corporation’s owners (shareholders) and directors, and other required information. Once the document is filed, the business will be legally recognized and can begin operation.

Do I need a Lawyer to Obtain a Certificate of Incorporation?

While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer to file a Certificate of Incorporation, it is highly recommended. An attorney with experience in New York corporate law can help to ensure that you are not missing any required information in the document, that it is properly filed, and it complies with all state and local regulations. They can also help to secure required licenses and permits that may be necessary for your business.

How Long Does it Take to Obtain a Certificate of Incorporation?

The time it takes to obtain a Certificate of Incorporation in the state of New York depends on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the document, the number of shareholders, and the amount of information that must be included in the filing. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to obtain a Certificate of Incorporation.

Can I File My Certificate of Incorporation Online?

Yes, it is possible to file your Certificate of Incorporation online in the state of New York. The process is straightforward and relatively simple, and the document can typically be filed and approved within a few days.

What Happens After I File My Certificate of Incorporation?

Once your Certificate of Incorporation is filed with the Secretary of State, it will be reviewed for accuracy and completeness. Any deficiencies in the document will need to be corrected before it can be approved. Once approved, you will be able to officially begin operation as a corporation. However, it is important to note that you will still need to secure any required licenses and permits in order to legally operate.

Concluding concepts

Obtaining a Certificate of Incorporation is a crucial step in beginning a business in the state of New York. Knowing the answers to some of the most common questions can help to make the process smoother and more efficient. From understanding how long it takes to secure the document to filing it online, having an experienced attorney on your side is one of the best way to ensure that everything is filed accurately and on-time.

Topics:

Certificate of Incorporation,

New York,

Start-up Business