The Basic Forms to Start a Business
Checked your name and it's available? Here's the paperwork that usually comes next — the standard forms founders file when starting an LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, or partnership. Pick your structure below.
Brand Vault isn't a law firm and this isn't legal advice — just the forms founders typically use. Requirements vary by state, so double-check your Secretary of State. A few links below are affiliate links, which keep the checker free at no extra cost to you.
LLC (Limited Liability Company)
The most popular structure for new founders. File in your state, then paper it up.
Articles of Organization
Get the formThe filing that officially creates your LLC with the state. Without this, there is no LLC — just an idea.
LLC Operating Agreement
Get the formDefines who owns what, how decisions get made, and what happens if a member leaves. Banks and investors ask for this.
EIN Application (Form SS-4)
FreeYour business Social Security number — free from the IRS. You need it for taxes, a business bank account, and hiring.
Registered Agent Consent
Your registered agent (a person or service in your state) signs this to accept legal mail on your behalf. Your agent provides it.
Statement of Information / Annual Report
Many states require a periodic filing to keep the LLC in good standing. Deadlines and fees vary by state.
Business License Application
Filed with your city or county. Requirements range from a simple registration to industry-specific permits.
Corporation (C-Corp / S-Corp)
For founders planning to raise money or issue stock.
Articles of Incorporation
Get the formThe state filing that creates the corporation — the C-Corp equivalent of Articles of Organization.
Corporate Bylaws
The internal rulebook: how the board operates, how shares work, how meetings run.
Initial Board Resolutions
The first official decisions of the board — appointing officers, authorizing a bank account, issuing shares.
EIN Application (Form SS-4)
FreeRequired for every corporation. Free from the IRS, takes minutes online.
Sole Proprietorship
The simplest start — you and the business are the same legal entity.
DBA / Fictitious Business Name
Lets you operate under a business name instead of your personal name. Filed with your county or state.
Business License Application
Most cities require one even for a one-person operation. Check your city clerk.
EIN Application (optional)
FreeNot required for a sole prop with no employees, but handy if you want to keep your SSN off forms.
Partnership
Two or more people building together — get the split in writing first.
Partnership Agreement
Who puts in what, who decides what, and how profits (and fights) get handled. Verbal agreements are where partnerships go to die.
EIN Application (Form SS-4)
FreePartnerships need an EIN for taxes. Free from the IRS.
DBA / Fictitious Business Name
If the partnership operates under a name other than the partners’ names.
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