How to File Articles of Incorporation in Indiana

Filing Indiana Articles of Incorporation correctly helps ensure an appropriate business setup and protection for new corporations. Make sure you have everything on hand and know exactly what you need to complete the process of Indiana corporation formation.

The Indiana statute that governs Articles of Incorporation is Title 23, Article 1, Chapter 38. The Articles of Incorporation are filed with the Indiana Secretary of State (SOS). Keep in mind that the information included in these documents becomes a matter of public record.

How to Complete the Articles of Incorporation Form

File your Articles of Incorporation in Indiana in person, via fax, mail, or online. The online filing option is the most commonly used because processing is quicker. Download the form to file by mail, or gather the necessary information and file online.

Articles of Incorporation for Domestic (In-State) vs. Foreign (Out-of-State) For-Profit Entities

Any entity that was formed outside of Indiana is considered a foreign business. As such, these businesses must include a Foreign Registration Statement with the paperwork accompanying their Articles of Incorporation. The state charges a filing fee.

Foreign corporations must also include a Certificate of Existence (or equivalent document) from the original state of incorporation. It should no older than 60 days of the date you submit your Foreign Registration Statement.

Choosing a Company Name

The naming process may be among the most challenging for a new entity.

Start with a search of the Indiana name registry to help ensure your name isn’t already taken. Your name must be unique and not be in use by any other business in the state. If you’re so inclined, reserve your chosen name with ZenBusiness’s name reservation service. The reservation will remain valid for 120 days.

Your official business name must include the word “Incorporated,” “Corporation,” “Company,” “Limited,” or one of their abbreviations.

Name a Registered Agent

A registered agent is the person that accepts legal notices such as subpoenas as well as official documents from the SOS on behalf of your business. The agent is listed on the Articles of Incorporation and must have a physical street address in the State of Indiana. They also must have an office that is open during standard business hours and must be available during that time to accept legal notices.

If you don’t have a person to serve in this role, consider using ZenBusiness’s registered agent services. A professional service is ideal because it ensures that you have a professional who will accept your documents and relay them to you as soon as possible. Not to mention, it’ll free up your time to do other things during the day.

Breakdown of Form Questions

• Section 1: Company name and email address.
• Section 2: Contact information for return purposes. The questions here include registered agent name, physical address, telephone number, and email address.
• Section 3: Name and contact information of each of the initial shareholders for the corporation.
• Section 4: Corporation designation. Your choices are for-profit corporation, benefit corporation, or professional corporation.
• Section 5: The official name of the business and physical address.
• Section 6: Registered agent information, including name and address.
• Section 7: Shares issued during the initial filing.
• Section 8: Name of those participating in the initial incorporation process. This generally consists of the initial board members.
• Section 9: Signature and date.

How to Submit the Form

The state charges a fee to file Articles of Incorporation in Indiana. Those filing can pay via credit or debit card online. A check or money order should be enclosed in the envelope when submitting paperwork via mail.

Processing times vary depending on the method of submission and volume of applicants, but here are the time estimates:

• Walk-in: One business day
• Mail: Three to five business days
• Fax: 24 hours
• Online: Immediate (within hours)

Mailed submissions should be printed on white paper measuring 8.5″x11″ and should include the original documents and a copy. Check their website for the most current instructions and addresses.

After you file, you’ll want to make sure you stay in good standing with the state. Use our Worry-Free Compliance service to put your mind at ease and focus on what’s important.

Conclusion

When filing Indiana Articles of Incorporation, it helps to have guidance and expertise on your side. ZenBusiness specializes in helping people work through the administrative elements to ensure it’s done right the first time.

Check out one of ZenBusiness’s business formation plans to help you navigate the process and get your new enterprise off the ground today.