<aside> 💡 The following are the basic steps to follow to get a company setup from a legal and basic operational perspective. There are many web resources for startups and you can visit including http://smallbusiness.findlaw.com/incorporation-and-legal-structures/checklist-starting-a-corporation.html, www.cooleygo.com and http://www.foundersworkbench.com.

</aside>

Consult with an Attorney

ALWAYS CONSULT WITH A LAWYER BEFORE EXECUTING LEGAL ACTIONS OR SIGNING DOCUMENTS.  Incorporating can be a long-term benefit to your new business in the long run, but the process can be complicated. To ensure that your new business complies with your state's legal requirements at all steps in the incorporation process, you may wish to consult an experienced business attorney.

Decide on a Business Name

Keep in mind that your state may require that your corporation's name include an identifying word such as "incorporated," "limited," "corporation," or an abbreviation of such a term.

Search Name Availability

In addition to searching for references to your corporation's chosen business name, you also should look for similarities to existing names. If your name is too similar to an existing name, to the point that it causes confusion, you may not be able to register it

Register Your Corporation's Name

In addition to your legal business name, you also want to register any fictitious business name under which you conduct business.

You may want to utilize resources from CorpCo. https://www.youtube.com/embed/9q2YVJW2Veg. They have created an “Incorporation Toolkit”.  This consists of an entity comparison chart, fillable order form, FAQ’s, etc.  We have the video and the “toolkit” preloaded on USB drive memory sticks. Another service for registering in Delaware is Harvard Business Services (https://www.delawareinc.com).

Pick a Place in Which to Incorporate

Even if your company's main operations are in one state, you may incorporate in another if it provides advantages. For instance, a significant number of businesses are incorporated in Delaware despite being founded or operated elsewhere. Registration will include your state, federal and city filings.

Choose Directors for Your Corporation

The board of directors is responsible for overseeing the operation and protecting the interests of the investors and shareholders. Directors may be officers of the corporation, investors, or individuals with no other stake in the company.

Create and Sign Your Articles of Incorporation

The articles of incorporation are filed with your Secretary of State's office and serve as the official charter for your corporation.

Write Your Corporation's By-Laws / Founder’s Agreement

The by-laws outline the responsibilities of the corporation's officers, directors, and shareholders; the overall purpose of the corporation; and who manages which aspects of the business.

Create a shareholder Agreement

It's not always necessary to create a shareholder agreement or stockholder agreement, but it typically addresses the rights and responsibilities of shareholders, including share ownership terms and valuation.