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Step 1
Pick a name. The first step in structuring your business as a corporation is to choose a corporate name. Check with your state's corporations office to make sure the name you want is available and acceptable for use.
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Step 2
Form a board of directors. All incorporated businesses are first structured by forming a board of directors and appointing the initial directors and their roles.
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Step 3
File articles of incorporation. Articles of incorporation detailing the formation of your incorporated business must be drafted and filed with your state. A fee will be usually need to be filed with the articles of incorporation.
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Step 4
Draft your bylaws. The bylaws lay out the rules and operating procedures of your corporation. They lay out the foundation of your organization and are essential in structuring an incorporated business.
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Step 5
Have your first meeting. Now that your business is structured as a corporation, hold your first meeting of the board of directors. All board of director meetings should be documented and regularly scheduled. At this time, you can formally adopt the bylaws, authorize the issuance of stock and set the corporation's fiscal year.
