Homepage Official Articles of Incorporation Form Attorney-Verified Articles of Incorporation Document for the State of New Hampshire
Content Navigation

Incorporating a business in New Hampshire is an essential step for entrepreneurs looking to establish a formal legal entity. The New Hampshire Articles of Incorporation form serves as the foundational document that outlines key details about the corporation. This form includes vital information such as the corporation's name, which must be unique and distinguishable from existing entities in the state. Additionally, it requires the designation of a registered agent—an individual or business entity authorized to receive legal documents on behalf of the corporation. The form also specifies the corporation's purpose, which can range from general business activities to more specific endeavors. Furthermore, it outlines the number of shares the corporation is authorized to issue, as well as the par value of those shares, if applicable. By completing and filing this form with the New Hampshire Secretary of State, business owners take a significant step toward ensuring compliance with state regulations, while also gaining the benefits that come with corporate status, such as limited liability protection. Understanding these components is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the incorporation process effectively.

Key takeaways

Filling out the New Hampshire Articles of Incorporation form is an essential step in establishing a corporation in the state. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

  • The form is required to legally create a corporation in New Hampshire.
  • Ensure that the name of your corporation is unique and complies with state regulations.
  • Provide a clear purpose for your corporation; this should describe the business activities you intend to conduct.
  • Include the address of your corporation's principal office, which must be a physical location in New Hampshire.
  • Designate a registered agent who will receive legal documents on behalf of the corporation.
  • List the names and addresses of the initial directors of the corporation.
  • Be aware that the form requires the signature of an incorporator, who may or may not be a director.
  • Consider the tax implications and filing requirements that come with incorporation.
  • Review the form for accuracy before submission to avoid delays in processing.
  • File the completed form with the New Hampshire Secretary of State and pay the required filing fee.

Following these guidelines can help ensure a smoother process when establishing your corporation in New Hampshire.

How to Use New Hampshire Articles of Incorporation

Once you have your New Hampshire Articles of Incorporation form ready, you'll need to fill it out accurately to establish your corporation. This process requires attention to detail, as each section of the form is essential for the proper registration of your business entity.

  1. Begin by entering the name of your corporation. Ensure that it complies with New Hampshire naming requirements, including the use of "Corporation," "Incorporated," or an abbreviation like "Inc."
  2. Provide the primary address of the corporation. This should be a physical address in New Hampshire where the business will be located.
  3. List the purpose of your corporation. Be clear and concise about what your business intends to do.
  4. Indicate the duration of the corporation. Most corporations are set up to exist indefinitely, but you can specify a different duration if needed.
  5. Include the name and address of the registered agent. This person or entity will receive legal documents on behalf of the corporation.
  6. Identify the incorporators. List the names and addresses of the individuals who are forming the corporation.
  7. Sign and date the form. Ensure that the incorporators sign the document to validate it.
  8. Review the completed form for accuracy. Double-check all entries to avoid any mistakes that could delay the process.
  9. Submit the form to the New Hampshire Secretary of State along with the required filing fee. Make sure to check the current fee amount and acceptable payment methods.

Similar forms

The New Hampshire Articles of Incorporation form is similar to the Certificate of Incorporation used in Delaware. Both documents serve as foundational legal documents that establish a corporation's existence. They outline essential information, such as the corporation's name, purpose, and registered agent. In Delaware, the Certificate of Incorporation is often preferred for its flexible corporate laws, attracting many businesses. However, like the New Hampshire form, it requires specific details to be filed with the state to legally create the entity.

Another comparable document is the Articles of Organization in New Hampshire, which is used for forming a limited liability company (LLC). While the Articles of Incorporation focuses on corporations, the Articles of Organization serves a similar purpose for LLCs. Both documents require basic information about the business structure, including the name and address of the entity and its registered agent. This similarity highlights the different legal frameworks available for business formation in New Hampshire.

The Corporate Bylaws document is also similar in that it governs the internal management of a corporation. While the Articles of Incorporation establish the corporation's existence, the Bylaws provide detailed rules on how the corporation will operate. This includes information on the roles of officers, procedures for meetings, and voting rights. Both documents are essential for corporate governance, but they serve different purposes in outlining a corporation's structure and operations.

The Statement of Information, used in several states, bears resemblance to the Articles of Incorporation as it provides updated information about a corporation after its formation. This document typically includes the corporation's address, names of officers, and other relevant details. Like the Articles of Incorporation, the Statement of Information must be filed with the state to keep the corporation in good standing. It ensures that the state has accurate and current information about the business.

In addition, the Business License Application can be compared to the Articles of Incorporation. Both documents are necessary for a business to operate legally within a state. While the Articles of Incorporation create the corporation, the Business License Application allows it to conduct business activities. This application often requires information about the business structure, ownership, and location, similar to the information required in the Articles of Incorporation.

The Partnership Agreement is another document that shares similarities with the Articles of Incorporation. While the latter is specific to corporations, the Partnership Agreement outlines the terms and conditions of a partnership. Both documents define the structure and roles within the business entity. They establish the framework for how the business will operate, including the responsibilities of each party involved, although they cater to different types of business entities.

Lastly, the Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation is akin to the standard Articles of Incorporation but tailored for nonprofit organizations. This document outlines the purpose of the nonprofit, its governance structure, and compliance with state laws. While both documents share a focus on establishing a legal entity, the Nonprofit Articles emphasize the organization's mission and its commitment to serving the public rather than generating profit, differentiating it from traditional corporate Articles of Incorporation.

Document Preview Example

New Hampshire Articles of Incorporation

These Articles of Incorporation are established under the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated, Chapter 293.

  1. Name of Corporation: _______________
  2. Principal Office Address: _______________
  3. Type of Corporation (e.g., Non-Profit, For-Profit): _______________
  4. Duration of Corporation: (If not perpetual, define duration) _______________
  5. Registered Agent's Name: _______________
  6. Registered Agent's Address: _______________
  7. Purpose of the Corporation: _______________

The undersigned, acting on behalf of the corporation, certifies that the following information is true:

  • Name of Incorporator: _______________
  • Incorporator's Address: _______________
  • Date: _______________

The undersigned hereby affirms that these Articles of Incorporation shall take effect upon filing with the Secretary of State of New Hampshire.

Signature of Incorporator: _______________