Download Forms
Homepage ➔ Fillable Articles of Incorporation Form ➔ Attorney-Approved Articles of Incorporation Document for the State of Virginia
Table of Contents

The Virginia Articles of Incorporation form is a critical document for anyone looking to establish a corporation in the state of Virginia. This form outlines essential details about the corporation, including its name, purpose, and the number of shares it is authorized to issue. Additionally, it requires information about the registered agent, who will serve as the point of contact for legal matters. The form also specifies the initial directors and their addresses, providing a clear structure for the governance of the corporation. By filing the Articles of Incorporation, individuals can formalize their business entity, protecting personal assets and enabling the corporation to operate legally. Understanding the requirements and components of this form is crucial for a smooth incorporation process and compliance with state regulations.

Consider More Articles of Incorporation Templates for Different States

Wa Secretary of State Business Entity Search - It may require annual elections for directors to ensure shareholder engagement.

Llc Articles of Organization Nj - The document sets forth the overall goals and operational structure of your corporation.

To ensure a smooth and legal transfer of ownership, it is essential to utilize the Louisiana Boat Bill of Sale form, which serves as an official record of the transaction; for more information on completing this process, refer to the Bill of Sale for a Boat.

Creating an Llc in California - Specific rules about member voting rights may be outlined.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Virginia Articles of Incorporation form, it is essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Below are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

  • Do ensure that the name of your corporation is unique and complies with Virginia naming requirements.
  • Do provide a clear and complete address for the principal office of the corporation.
  • Do include the names and addresses of the initial directors in the appropriate section.
  • Do specify the purpose of your corporation accurately, reflecting its intended business activities.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.
  • Don't use abbreviations or acronyms that may confuse the reviewers.
  • Don't neglect to check for any additional requirements that may apply to your specific type of corporation.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure that your Articles of Incorporation are processed smoothly and efficiently.

Virginia Articles of Incorporation Sample

Virginia Articles of Incorporation Template

This template is designed to help you establish your corporation in the state of Virginia, under the provisions of the Virginia Nonstock Corporation Act.

Please fill in the blanks with the required information.

Article I: Name

The name of the corporation is:

Article II: Duration

The period of duration is:

Article III: Purpose

The purpose for which the corporation is organized is:

Article IV: Registered Agent

The name of the registered agent is:

The address of the registered office is:

Article V: Incorporators

  1. Name of Incorporator 1:
  2. Address of Incorporator 1:
  3. Name of Incorporator 2:
  4. Address of Incorporator 2:

Article VI: Directors

  • Name of Director 1:
  • Name of Director 2:
  • Name of Director 3:

Article VII: Additional Provisions

Any additional provisions for the regulation of the affairs of the corporation can be specified here:

This document must be filed with the Virginia State Corporation Commission for the corporation to be established.

Listed Questions and Answers

  1. What are the Virginia Articles of Incorporation?

    The Virginia Articles of Incorporation is a legal document that establishes a corporation in the state of Virginia. It serves as the foundation for your business entity and outlines key information about your corporation, such as its name, purpose, registered agent, and the number of shares authorized for issuance.

  2. Who needs to file Articles of Incorporation in Virginia?

    Any individual or group looking to start a corporation in Virginia must file Articles of Incorporation. This applies to both for-profit and non-profit organizations. If you're planning to operate as a corporation, this form is essential for legal recognition.

  3. What information is required in the Articles of Incorporation?

    The form typically requires several key pieces of information:

    • The name of the corporation
    • The purpose of the corporation
    • The address of the corporation's registered office
    • The name and address of the registered agent
    • The number of shares the corporation is authorized to issue

  4. How do I file the Articles of Incorporation?

    You can file the Articles of Incorporation either online or by mail. If you choose to file online, visit the Virginia Secretary of State's website. For mail submissions, print the completed form and send it to the appropriate office along with the required filing fee.

  5. What is the filing fee for the Articles of Incorporation?

    The filing fee varies depending on the type of corporation you are forming. Generally, for-profit corporations have a fee of around $100, while non-profit corporations may have a lower fee. Always check the current fee schedule on the Virginia Secretary of State's website to ensure you have the most accurate information.

  6. How long does it take for the Articles of Incorporation to be processed?

    Processing times can vary. Typically, if filed online, you may receive confirmation within a few business days. Mail submissions can take longer, often up to two weeks or more. If you need your corporation established quickly, consider filing online.

  7. Can I amend the Articles of Incorporation after filing?

    Yes, you can amend your Articles of Incorporation if changes are necessary. This may include changes to the corporation's name, registered agent, or other details. To do this, you will need to file an amendment form with the Virginia Secretary of State and pay the associated fee.

  8. What happens if I don’t file the Articles of Incorporation?

    If you fail to file the Articles of Incorporation, your business will not be legally recognized as a corporation in Virginia. This can lead to personal liability for business debts and obligations, as well as potential legal penalties. It’s crucial to complete this step to protect your interests and ensure compliance with state laws.

  9. Do I need a lawyer to file the Articles of Incorporation?

    While it is not required to hire a lawyer to file your Articles of Incorporation, it can be beneficial, especially if you have questions or unique circumstances. Many people successfully complete the process on their own using available resources and templates. However, consulting a legal professional can provide peace of mind and ensure everything is done correctly.

PDF Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The Virginia Articles of Incorporation form is used to officially create a corporation in the state of Virginia.
Governing Law This form is governed by the Virginia Business Corporation Act, specifically Title 13.1 of the Code of Virginia.
Filing Requirements To complete the incorporation process, the form must be filed with the Virginia State Corporation Commission along with the required filing fee.
Information Required The form requires essential information, including the corporation's name, registered agent, and the number of shares authorized to issue.
Effective Date The Articles of Incorporation can specify an effective date, which may be the filing date or a future date, as allowed by Virginia law.