How Much to File Articles of Incorporation | Lovie — US Company Formation

Filing your Articles of Incorporation is a crucial step in legally establishing your C-corporation or S-corporation. This document serves as the foundational legal charter for your business, outlining key details like your company’s name, purpose, stock structure, and registered agent. The cost to file these articles varies significantly depending on the state where you choose to incorporate. These state-specific fees are paid directly to the Secretary of State or equivalent agency and are essential for making your incorporation official. Beyond the basic state filing fee, business owners often incur additional costs related to the incorporation process. These can include fees for obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS (which is free), registered agent services, and potentially state-specific annual report fees. Understanding these various costs upfront is vital for accurate business planning and budgeting. Lovie simplifies this process, offering clear pricing and guidance to ensure your corporation is formed correctly and efficiently, regardless of your chosen state.

Understanding State Filing Fees for Articles of Incorporation

The primary cost associated with filing Articles of Incorporation is the state filing fee. This fee is paid to the state government, typically the Secretary of State's office or a similar business filing division, to officially register your corporation. These fees are not standardized across the United States; each state sets its own schedule of charges. For example, a state like Delaware, known for its business-friendly environment, has a filing fee of $90 for its Certificate of Incorporation.

State filing fees for Articles of Incorporation vary widely by state.
Fees are paid directly to the state government (e.g., Secretary of State).
Examples include Delaware ($90), California ($100 + $25 franchise tax), and New York ($125).
These fees are mandatory for legal corporate recognition.

Factors Influencing Your Total Incorporation Costs

While the state filing fee for Articles of Incorporation is a significant component, it's rarely the only cost involved in forming a corporation. Several other factors can influence your total expenditure. One of the most common additional expenses is the fee for a registered agent. Every corporation is legally required to have a registered agent – a person or company designated to receive official legal and tax documents on behalf of the business. While you can appoint yourself or a trusted emp

Registered agent services are a common additional cost, typically $100-$300 annually.
Expedited filing is available in most states for an extra fee.
Initial reports and franchise taxes may be due at the time of filing.
Factor in potential costs for state-specific requirements beyond basic filing.

Comparing Incorporation Filing Fees: Corporations vs. LLCs

When entrepreneurs research business formation, they often consider both corporations (C-corps and S-corps) and Limited Liability Companies (LLCs). While both entities offer liability protection, the filing requirements and associated costs can differ. Articles of Incorporation are specifically for forming C-corporations and S-corporations, while LLCs file Articles of Organization. The filing fees for these documents are set by each state independently and do not always align. For instance, in T

Corporations file Articles of Incorporation; LLCs file Articles of Organization.
Filing fees for these documents are state-specific and can vary.
In some states, fees are identical; in others, they differ.
Consider broader implications like taxes and legal structure beyond initial filing fees.

How Lovie Simplifies Incorporation Filing Costs

Navigating the complex web of state filing fees, registered agent costs, and other incorporation expenses can be daunting for new business owners. Lovie is designed to demystify this process and provide a transparent, cost-effective solution. When you choose Lovie to form your corporation, we clearly outline all the associated state filing fees for your chosen state. Our pricing includes the mandatory state filing fee, so you won't encounter hidden charges. We also offer competitive rates for ou

Lovie provides transparent pricing that includes state filing fees.
We offer competitive rates for professional registered agent services.
Various packages are available to suit different budgets and needs.
Lovie simplifies the process, saving you time and potential hidden costs.

Annual Fees and Ongoing Costs After Filing Articles

Forming your corporation is just the beginning; there are ongoing costs to maintain its good standing with the state. The most common recurring fee is the annual report filing. Many states require corporations to submit an annual report (sometimes called a statement of information or annual listing) and pay a fee to update the state on the company's current status, officers, and directors. For example, California requires corporations to file a Statement of Information every two years, with a fi

Annual reports or statements are required in most states, with associated fees.
Delaware has an annual franchise tax based on share structure.
Failure to pay annual fees can result in penalties or dissolution.
Registered agent fees are typically recurring annual costs.

Filing Articles of Incorporation: State-Specific Cost Examples

To provide a clearer picture of the costs involved, let's look at specific state examples for filing Articles of Incorporation. In Wyoming, a state often favored for its low costs and business-friendly policies, the filing fee for Articles of Incorporation is $100. Wyoming also has no state corporate income tax or personal income tax, making it an attractive option for many entrepreneurs. Colorado charges $50 to file Articles of Incorporation, with an additional $10 fee for the registered agent

Wyoming: $100 filing fee for Articles of Incorporation.
Colorado: $50 filing fee + $10 registered agent fee.
Illinois: $150 filing fee for Articles of Incorporation.
Pennsylvania: $125 filing fee for Certificate of Incorporation.
Always factor in registered agent fees and potential annual costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost to file Articles of Incorporation?: The average cost to file Articles of Incorporation can range from $50 to $200, depending heavily on the state. Some states, like Wyoming, charge around $100, while others, like California, charge $100 plus an initial franchise tax prepayment. Always check the specific state's Secretary of State website for exact fees.
Do I need to pay a fee to get an EIN?: No, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is completely free. You can apply directly on the IRS website. Be wary of services that charge a fee for this essential step.
What is a registered agent fee and how much does it cost?: A registered agent is required to receive legal documents on behalf of your corporation. If you hire a professional service, expect to pay an annual fee typically between $100 and $300. This fee covers their service of maintaining a physical address in the state and forwarding mail.
Are there costs associated with S-corp vs. C-corp filing?: The initial filing fee for Articles of Incorporation is generally the same for both C-corps and S-corps in most states, as they both use the same foundational document. However, S-corp status requires an additional election with the IRS (Form 2553), which is free, but may have different tax implications and compliance requirements later on.
How much does Lovie charge to file Articles of Incorporation?: Lovie's pricing is transparent and includes the state filing fee. Our packages start at competitive rates, covering the core requirements for forming your corporation, including registered agent service. Visit our formation page for current package details and pricing.

Start your formation with Lovie — $20/month, everything included.