This is probably the 4th time someone has asked how I incorporated my own business – Guru Consulting Services, Inc.
I wrote an email to one of my clients outlining the steps on how anyone with a business can incorporate in California (doesn’t matter for formation, LLC, C-Corp, Partnership, etc.) , the Do-It-Yourself way, so you can be sure it’s the cheapest way to incorporate your business.
Now, keep in mind, the following is specific to California, but the steps 1 & 2 of the process of choosing the name should be the same regardless which state you want to incorporate in.
Hi [name un-disclosed],
Here is what I did when I set up my own consulting corp.
Process for choosing a name:
1. I make sure the .COM of the company name is available first before I even bother performing trademark/business name search.
Go to http://www.wholesalerdomains.com to look up domain names, it’s about $10/year to register the name. I would also secure the .NET, and .ORG version of it.
2. Then I make sure the name is not already trademarked. Go here:
3. Then I perform a search on existing business entities. Go here:
http://kepler.sos.ca.gov/list.html
Most likely if you pass step 1 (domain name search) and found a name you like, it will usually pass the trademark and existing business name search.
4. Then you can go here: http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/ to find out all you need to know about what forms/fees you need to self-incorporate your business (yeah, and they make it really easy, too
[...]
Alright, hopefully that’s enough information to get you started – I know, it’s quite a bit, but the good news is that you only need to do it right once
Thanks!
Steve
Step 4 is where it gets me and most people confused. For my California corporation I chose it to be a CLOSE CORPORATION, and all the state requires is that you file an Article of Incorporation with a $100 check enclosed:
http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/corp/pdf/articles/corp_artsclose.pdf
Here is the Article of Incorporation (download Word Document version here) form that I used, and you are free to use it for your application. Just make sure you have replaced all the [tags] with your own information.
In the Article of Incorporation form they also suggest that to facilitate the processing of documents mailed to the Sacramento office, a self-addressed envelope and a letter referencing the corporate name as well as your own name, return address and telephone number should also be submitted.
Here is a sample referencing letter (download Word Document version here) that I used, and you are free to use it for your application. Just make sure you have replaced all the [tags] with your own information.
If you are incorporating other entities, I’ll save you the trouble of treading through the confusing Secretary of State website. Just choose an appropriate form to file from here:
http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/be/forms.htm
If you are interested in learning more about incorporating in your own state, then I suggest you visit the official USA.gov site.
It’s no wonder incorporation service and kits are available for purchase – because the State’s website don’t make it easier for people!
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