I am a US business, what are my "Articles of Association"?
In the US, the equivalent of Articles of Association depends on the type of business entity you have:
Articles of Incorporation (for Corporations)
- This document officially establishes your corporation as a legal entity with the state. It includes details about your business name, purpose, registered agent, and the structure of your corporation.
You can obtain a copy of your Articles of Incorporation from the Secretary of State’s office in the state where your business was formed. Most states provide an online request service.
Articles of Organization (for Limited Liability Companies - LLCs)
- For LLCs, the Articles of Organization are the legal documents filed with the state to establish the LLC. They outline the LLC's structure, including its name, purpose, and management details.
- You can obtain a copy of your Articles of Organization through your state’s Secretary of State office. The process is usually available online, but some states may require a formal request by mail or in person.
If you're unsure which document applies to your business, check whether your entity is classified as a corporation or an LLC. This will determine whether you need the Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization