Filing a New Hampshire Corporation
Those interested in starting a business tend to find excellent value in a New Hampshire Corporation. Registering as a Corporation could have numerous advantages. A Corporation not only provides tax benefits, but it also provides instant credibility to customers and clients. However, the process of registering as a Corporation can be complicated. Owners must be diligent throughout the filing process.
Steps When Filing
Choose A Name
The first thing that new owners are going to want to do is select a name for their entity. The state of New Hampshire requires companies to include an indicator in their name. In this case, owners will want to add something like, “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” or “Limited.” Owners could choose to include an abbreviation, like “Inc.,” instead.
Additionally, new owners must ensure that the name they choose is unique. The state of New Hampshire does not allow two Corporations to have the same name. To ensure they don’t select a name that’s already in use, owners can use the DoMyLLC Name Availability Check Page.
Choose An Agent For Service Of Process
After choosing a name, prospective owners will need to select a registered agent. The registered agent is responsible for accepting all legal correspondence on the business’ behalf. As you can imagine, the registered agent is vital to a new company’s success. For this reason, many new owners utilize a professional third-party company, such as DoMyLLC, to serve as their registered agent.
File Articles Of Incorporation & Pay Filing Fees
Once owners have chosen a name and registered agent, they can file Articles of Incorporation with the Corporations Division of the Secretary of State’s office. There is a $100 fee to do so. Information that owners must provide on this form includes:
- The name of the company
- Principal office address and mailing address
- Business phone number and email
- Number of shares the Corporation is authorized to issue
- Name and address of the registered agent
- The principal purpose for which the Corporation is organized
- Whether the company is a Benefit Corporation
- If a Benefit Corporation, when the end-year fiscal date is
- The name, address, and signatures of incorporators
File Initial Report
The state of New Hampshire does not require Initial Report. Were owners to expand across state lines, they may need to file an Initial Report.
Create Corporate Bylaws, Appoint Directors And Hold Meetings
Owners of the New Hampshire Corporation will need to hold an initial corporate meeting. Those who filed Articles of Incorporation are responsible for overseeing the initial meeting. Incorporators should appoint individuals to the board of directors at this meeting and record this information in the corporate records. Directors will serve on the board until the next annual meeting of the shareholders, where they will be up for re-election.
Once in place, the board can define the role of members and officers and elect officers. They will also need to draft corporate bylaws. Bylaws are a private document that act as an internal operating manual for the company. They are a matter of corporate compliance, as a Corporation cannot conduct business until the board of directors has adopted them. Additionally, many insurers and banks require Corporations to provide proof of bylaws.
Issue Stock
While at the initial corporate meeting, the board of directors should issue stock. The board is responsible for issuing stock throughout the life cycle of the Corporation. The amount that they can issue is defined in the Articles of Incorporation. The board will also need to maintain a stock ledger to provide transparency to future investors and preserve the corporate veil.
Obtain Employer Identification Number
A New Hampshire will need to secure an Employer Identification Numbers to file taxes, hire new employees, and open a business bank account.
File New Hampshire Required Annual Reports
Each year, the New Hampshire Corporation must file an Annual Report with the Secretary of State. The report is due by April 1. There is a $100 fee to do so. Owners can learn more at the New Hampshire Annual Report page.
Ongoing Maintenance
In addition to annual reports, the New Hampshire Corporation will also need to file taxes at the state and federal level each year. The company will also want to renew all licenses and permits.
How DoMyLLC Can Assist With Streamlining The Process
At DoMyLLC, we understand how overwhelming it can be to form a Corporation in New Hampshire. That’s why we offer comprehensive filing services to both new and existing business owners. Our services include:
- Name availability check
- Prepare Articles of Incorporation
- File Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of New Hampshire’s office
- Provide sample bylaws, meeting notices and minutes for meetings
- Dedicated account manager
- Unlimited customer support
By allowing us to handle your administrative needs, you can focus on growing your brand. Interested in learning more? Contact us today!