On this page · 9 sections
- What is a C-Corp?
- Why Choose a C-Corp for Your Nashville Business?
- C-Corp Formation Requirements in Tennessee
- The C-Corp Formation Process in Nashville
- Costs Associated with C-Corp Formation
- Navigating Nashville and Davidson County Licenses
- Ongoing Compliance for Tennessee C-Corps
- C-Corp vs. LLC in Nashville
- Hiring a Service for C-Corp Formation
Understanding the Corporate Structure: What is a C-Corp?
A C-Corporation, or C-Corp, represents a distinct legal entity separate from its owners. This separation is the cornerstone of its structure, offering significant advantages, particularly for businesses seeking substantial growth and external investment. Unlike sole proprietorships or partnerships, a C-Corp's assets and liabilities are not directly tied to those of its shareholders. This means the personal assets of the owners are shielded from business debts and lawsuits, a critical feature for risk management. The corporation itself is responsible for its own debts and obligations. Ownership is represented by shares of stock, which can be bought and sold, allowing for easy transfer of ownership and the potential for a broad shareholder base. This structure is the default for most corporations and is recognized by the IRS as a separate taxable entity. Profits generated by the C-Corp are taxed at the corporate level. If these profits are then distributed to shareholders as dividends, they are taxed again at the individual shareholder level, a phenomenon known as 'double taxation.' However, this structure also allows for a wider range of tax deductions and benefits not available to pass-through entities. C-Corps can issue various classes of stock (e.g., common and preferred), offering flexibility in how ownership and control are structured. This is particularly appealing to venture capitalists and angel investors who often prefer the C-Corp structure for its clarity and established legal framework. The ability to raise capital through the sale of stock is a primary driver for choosing this entity type. Furthermore, C-Corps can offer employee stock options, a powerful tool for attracting and retaining top talent. The corporate veil provides a robust shield, making it an attractive choice for businesses with significant liability exposure or ambitious expansion plans, especially in a dynamic economic hub like Nashville. The inherent complexity of the C-Corp structure also lends itself to professional management and governance, with clear roles for directors and officers. This formal structure is often a prerequisite for going public via an Initial Public Offering (IPO) or for attracting significant institutional investment. It signifies a level of maturity and commitment to long-term growth and scalability. The legal framework surrounding C-Corps is well-established, providing a predictable environment for operations and investment. This predictability is invaluable for businesses planning significant capital expenditures or entering new markets. The separation from owners also facilitates easier succession planning and business continuity, as the entity can persist beyond the involvement of its original founders. The corporate form is designed for perpetuity, ensuring the business can continue to operate and thrive through various ownership changes and market cycles. This enduring nature is a key reason why many large, established businesses opt for the C-Corp structure. It provides a solid foundation for sustained success and market leadership. The ability to issue stock also allows for complex financial arrangements and mergers and acquisitions, further enhancing its appeal for growth-oriented enterprises.
Strategic Advantages of a C-Corp in Nashville
Choosing a C-Corporation for your Nashville-based business offers a distinct set of strategic advantages, particularly if your growth trajectory involves significant scaling, external investment, or a future public offering. The primary allure of the C-Corp structure lies in its unparalleled ability to attract venture capital and angel investment. Investors, especially those providing significant funding rounds, often prefer C-Corps because the structure is familiar, legally robust, and allows for various classes of stock (like preferred stock) that offer them specific rights and protections. This makes it easier to negotiate terms and secure funding compared to other entity types. Furthermore, C-Corps are the only business structure eligible to offer stock options to employees. This is a powerful incentive for attracting and retaining high-caliber talent, crucial for innovative sectors thriving in Nashville, such as technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Offering equity can align employee interests with the company's long-term success, fostering a culture of ownership and dedication. The corporate veil provides a strong liability shield, protecting the personal assets of shareholders from business debts and lawsuits. In a competitive market like Nashville, where businesses face evolving regulatory landscapes and potential litigation, this protection is invaluable. It allows founders and investors to pursue ambitious goals with reduced personal financial risk. C-Corps also offer greater flexibility in management and governance. They can have a board of directors, officers, and a clear hierarchy, which can streamline decision-making and professionalize operations as the company grows. This structured approach is often a prerequisite for institutional investors and can facilitate smoother transitions during leadership changes or expansion phases. For businesses with aspirations of going public via an Initial Public Offering (IPO), the C-Corp is the mandatory structure. Establishing it early simplifies the eventual transition. While double taxation is a drawback, C-Corps benefit from a wider range of deductible business expenses, including employee benefits like health insurance and retirement plans, which can offset some of the tax burden. The ability to retain earnings for reinvestment within the company, taxed at the corporate rate, can also be advantageous for rapid growth phases. Nashville's burgeoning economy, with its supportive ecosystem for startups and established corporations alike, provides fertile ground for C-Corps. The city's diverse industries, from music and entertainment to healthcare and technology, offer numerous opportunities for growth and innovation. A C-Corp structure is well-suited to capitalize on these opportunities by providing the legal and financial framework necessary for significant expansion and market penetration. The formal structure also enhances the company's credibility with suppliers, partners, and potential acquirers, signaling a stable and serious business operation. This enhanced legitimacy can open doors to more significant contracts and strategic alliances, crucial for long-term success in a competitive landscape. The inherent scalability of the C-Corp model makes it ideal for businesses planning to expand beyond local or regional markets, potentially nationally or internationally. The structure supports complex ownership arrangements and capital raising strategies necessary for such ambitious growth plans. It provides a solid foundation for sustained success and market leadership, aligning with the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of Nashville's business community. The established legal precedents and investor familiarity with the C-Corp structure reduce uncertainty and streamline the process of securing capital and forging strategic partnerships. This predictability is a significant asset for any entrepreneur aiming for substantial business growth and market impact. It provides a robust framework for navigating the complexities of scaling a business in a thriving metropolitan area.
Tennessee State Requirements for C-Corp Formation
Forming a C-Corporation in Tennessee involves meeting specific state requirements overseen by the Tennessee Secretary of State. The foundational document is the 'Certificate of Incorporation.' This document must be filed with the Tennessee Secretary of State's office. Key information required includes the corporation's name, which must be distinguishable from other business names registered in Tennessee and must include a corporate designator such as 'Corporation,' 'Company,' 'Incorporated,' or 'Limited,' or an abbreviation thereof. The Certificate of Incorporation must also state the number of shares the corporation is authorized to issue. It needs to designate a registered agent and a registered office within Tennessee. The registered agent is the official point of contact for legal and official correspondence, and they must have a physical street address in Tennessee (not a P.O. Box). The registered office is the principal office of the business within the state. The Certificate of Incorporation must also include the names and addresses of the initial directors, if known at the time of filing. If not known, the incorporator's name and address will suffice, and the initial directors will be appointed later. The filing fee for the Certificate of Incorporation in Tennessee is currently $100. This fee is payable to the Tennessee Secretary of State. Once the Certificate of Incorporation is approved and filed, the corporation legally exists. However, formation isn't complete. Tennessee law requires corporations to adopt bylaws, which are the internal rules governing the corporation's operations, management, and shareholder rights. While bylaws are not filed with the state, they are legally binding documents that must be created and maintained. Following the filing, the initial directors must hold an organizational meeting to appoint officers, adopt bylaws, issue stock, and conduct other initial business. Another crucial step is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is a federal tax ID number required for most businesses, especially C-Corps, for tax filing, opening business bank accounts, and hiring employees. While not a state requirement for formation itself, it's essential for operational compliance. Tennessee also imposes an annual report requirement for all corporations. This report, filed with the Secretary of State, provides updated information about the corporation's officers, directors, and registered agent. The annual report filing fee is currently $300 for corporations. Failure to file the annual report on time can result in penalties and administrative dissolution of the corporation. Compliance with Tennessee's business laws and regulations is paramount. This includes adhering to corporate governance standards, maintaining proper corporate records, and fulfilling tax obligations at both the state and federal levels. Understanding these requirements ensures the C-Corp operates legally and maintains its corporate status and liability protections. The state's website provides detailed information and forms, but navigating these can be complex for new business owners. Ensuring accuracy in the Certificate of Incorporation and understanding subsequent obligations is key to a smooth formation process.
Step-by-Step: Forming Your C-Corp in Nashville
Forming a C-Corporation in Nashville, Tennessee, follows a structured process designed to establish a distinct legal entity. The journey begins with selecting a corporate name that complies with Tennessee state law. This name must be unique and include a corporate designator like 'Inc.' or 'Corp.' You can check name availability on the Tennessee Secretary of State's website. The next critical step is appointing a registered agent. This individual or business must have a physical address in Tennessee and be available during business hours to receive official correspondence and service of process on behalf of the corporation. While you can act as your own registered agent if you meet these criteria, many businesses opt for a professional service to ensure reliability and maintain privacy. With the name and registered agent secured, you'll prepare and file the Certificate of Incorporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State. This document is the legal birth certificate of your corporation. It requires details such as the corporation's name, the total number of shares authorized, the name and address of the registered agent and office, and the names and addresses of the initial directors or incorporator. The filing fee for the Certificate of Incorporation is $100. Once filed and approved by the state, your corporation legally exists. However, the formation process continues. After state approval, the initial directors, or incorporators if directors aren't yet named, must hold an organizational meeting. During this meeting, key decisions are made: adopting corporate bylaws (the internal operating rules), appointing corporate officers (President, Secretary, Treasurer, etc.), issuing the initial shares of stock to the founders, and authorizing the opening of a corporate bank account. You will also need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This federal tax identification number is essential for opening business bank accounts, filing taxes, and hiring employees. You can apply for an EIN online directly through the IRS website, and it's a free service. For Nashville businesses, securing the necessary local and state licenses and permits is the next phase. This varies depending on your industry and business activities. You'll need to research requirements from the Tennessee Department of Revenue for state taxes and licenses, and potentially the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County for local business licenses and permits. Operating without the correct licenses can lead to significant penalties. Finally, establishing robust corporate record-keeping is vital. This includes maintaining minutes from board and shareholder meetings, keeping stock transfer records, and ensuring compliance with ongoing state requirements, such as filing the annual report ($300 fee) with the Tennessee Secretary of State. This diligent adherence to process and compliance ensures your C-Corp operates smoothly and maintains its legal standing and liability protections in Nashville.
Understanding the Financials: C-Corp Formation Costs
Establishing a C-Corporation in Nashville involves several key costs, varying based on your choices and the services you utilize. The primary state-mandated cost is the filing fee for the Certificate of Incorporation, which is $100 payable to the Tennessee Secretary of State. This fee is non-negotiable and covers the state's administrative cost for processing your formation documents. Beyond this initial filing, other significant expenses arise. If you opt for a professional registered agent service, which is highly recommended for privacy and reliability, expect to pay an annual fee typically ranging from $100 to $300. This service ensures you consistently meet the legal requirement of having a designated agent with a physical Tennessee address to receive official mail and legal notices. Another considerable cost is legal assistance. While not strictly required by the state, many founders engage an attorney to review or draft corporate bylaws, stock issuance agreements, and other crucial organizational documents. Attorney fees can vary widely, from a few hundred dollars for basic document review to several thousand for comprehensive legal counsel. Alternatively, using a formation service like Lovie can streamline this process. Lovie's single $29/month plan includes formation filing, registered agent service, EIN registration, and compliance monitoring, significantly reducing upfront legal costs and simplifying the administrative burden. The cost of obtaining necessary business licenses and permits is another factor. These fees vary greatly depending on your industry and location within Nashville and Davidson County. Some licenses might be nominal, while others, particularly in regulated industries like finance or healthcare, can be substantial. Researching specific industry requirements is essential. Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is a free service, but if you use a formation service, they may include this as part of their package. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) forms and compliance costs should also be considered. While the initial formation is relatively inexpensive, ongoing compliance, such as filing the annual report with the Tennessee Secretary of State, incurs an additional $300 fee. Furthermore, depending on your business activities, you may need to pay state and local taxes, which are ongoing operational costs rather than formation costs, but crucial to budget for. Accounting services are also often necessary for C-Corps due to their complex tax structure. Hiring a CPA or accounting firm to manage bookkeeping, financial statements, and tax preparation can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars annually, depending on the complexity of your business. Consider the cost of establishing a corporate bank account; while many banks don't charge for basic business checking accounts, there might be minimum balance requirements or transaction fees. Finally, if you plan to issue stock options or manage complex cap tables, specialized software or services might be necessary, adding another layer of expense. Careful budgeting and understanding these various cost components will help ensure a smooth and financially sound C-Corp formation process in Nashville.
Maintaining Compliance: Your Tennessee C-Corp's Responsibilities
Once your C-Corporation is formed in Tennessee, ongoing compliance is crucial to maintain its legal standing and the liability protections it offers. The most fundamental state requirement is the annual filing of a Corporate Annual Report with the Tennessee Secretary of State. This report is due by the first day of the fourth month following the close of the corporation's fiscal year. For most corporations, this means it's due around April 1st each year. The filing fee for this report is currently $300. The annual report serves to update the state on the corporation's registered agent, registered office, principal officers, and directors. Missing this deadline can lead to penalties and, ultimately, administrative dissolution of the corporation by the state. Federal tax obligations are equally critical. As a C-Corp, you are subject to federal corporate income tax. You must file IRS Form 1120, U.S. Corporate Income Tax Return, annually. Estimated tax payments are generally required throughout the year. Understanding the complexities of corporate taxation, including potential deductions, credits, and the implications of retained earnings versus dividend distributions, is vital. Many C-Corps find it beneficial to work with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) specializing in corporate taxes. State tax obligations also continue beyond the annual report. Tennessee has a franchise tax, which is essentially a tax on the net worth of a business operating in the state. C-Corps are subject to this tax, which is calculated based on the greater of the net worth of the business or the real and tangible property owned by the business in Tennessee. The rate varies, and specific calculations are detailed by the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Additionally, depending on your business activities, you may be subject to Tennessee sales and use tax, excise taxes, or other industry-specific taxes. Maintaining proper corporate governance is another key aspect of compliance. This includes holding regular board of directors' meetings and shareholder meetings, keeping accurate minutes of these meetings, and maintaining all corporate records, such as stock certificates and transfer ledgers. These records are essential for demonstrating that the corporation is operating as a separate legal entity, reinforcing the corporate veil and protecting personal assets. The IRS also requires corporations to maintain detailed financial records to support their tax filings. Adherence to employment laws is also critical if you have employees. This includes proper payroll tax withholding, adherence to wage and hour laws, and compliance with workplace safety regulations. Failure to comply with these various state and federal requirements can lead to significant financial penalties, loss of limited liability protection, and damage to the company's reputation. Proactive management of these compliance tasks ensures the C-Corp remains in good standing and can focus on its business objectives. Services like Lovie can assist with tracking compliance deadlines and filing the annual report, helping to mitigate risks associated with missed obligations.
C-Corp vs. LLC: Which Entity Fits Your Nashville Business?
Deciding between forming a C-Corporation (C-Corp) or a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a pivotal choice for entrepreneurs in Nashville, as each structure offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. The fundamental difference lies in taxation and ownership flexibility. An LLC is a 'pass-through' entity, meaning its profits and losses are passed through directly to the owners' personal income without being taxed at the business level. This avoids the potential for double taxation inherent in C-Corps, where profits are taxed first at the corporate level and again when distributed as dividends to shareholders. For small businesses or those not seeking significant outside investment, the LLC's simpler tax structure and flexibility are often appealing. LLC owners pay self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare) on their share of the profits. C-Corps, on the other hand, are taxed as separate entities. While this 'double taxation' can be a drawback, it also allows C-Corps to offer a broader range of employee benefits (like health insurance and retirement plans) that are tax-deductible for the corporation. This structure is also the preferred choice for businesses aiming to attract venture capital or pursue an Initial Public Offering (IPO), as investors are more familiar and comfortable with the C-Corp model and its stock-based ownership. C-Corps can issue different classes of stock, providing more sophisticated options for ownership and investment structuring. LLCs offer more operational flexibility; they can be managed by their members or by appointed managers, and the internal operating agreement can be highly customized. C-Corps have a more rigid governance structure, typically involving a board of directors and corporate officers, which is often a requirement for institutional investors. Liability protection is a key similarity: both LLCs and C-Corps shield the personal assets of their owners from business debts and lawsuits. This limited liability is a primary reason entrepreneurs choose either structure over sole proprietorships or general partnerships. When considering Nashville's dynamic business environment, the choice often hinges on future goals. If your primary objective is rapid growth fueled by external investment, or if you envision going public, a C-Corp is likely the better path. Its structure is designed for scalability and attracting significant capital. If your focus is on simpler operations, avoiding double taxation, and maintaining flexibility in management and profit distribution, an LLC might be more suitable. It's also possible to convert an LLC to a C-Corp later if your business needs evolve, though this involves additional steps and costs. Consulting with a legal or financial advisor familiar with Tennessee business law is highly recommended to make the most informed decision for your specific circumstances. Both entities require state filing and ongoing compliance, but the nature of that compliance differs significantly. Understanding these core differences is crucial for setting your Nashville business up for long-term success.
Leveraging Lovie for Seamless C-Corp Formation
Forming a C-Corporation involves navigating complex state regulations, state and federal tax requirements, and essential corporate governance steps. While you can undertake this process independently, engaging a specialized service like Lovie can significantly streamline the procedure, reduce the risk of errors, and save valuable time. Lovie offers a comprehensive solution designed to handle the intricacies of C-Corp formation across all 50 states, including Tennessee. Our AI-powered platform prepares and submits all necessary formation documents, such as the Certificate of Incorporation, directly to the Tennessee Secretary of State. This ensures accuracy and adherence to state-specific requirements, minimizing the chance of rejection due to simple mistakes. A key component of C-Corp formation is appointing and maintaining a registered agent. Lovie includes registered agent services as part of its $29/month plan, providing a reliable point of contact for official legal and government correspondence, safeguarding your privacy by keeping your personal address off public records. Furthermore, Lovie assists with obtaining your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This federal tax ID is crucial for opening business bank accounts, filing taxes, and hiring employees. Our platform automates this process, ensuring you receive your EIN promptly. Compliance is an ongoing challenge for corporations. Lovie's service includes compliance monitoring, helping you stay on top of crucial deadlines, such as the annual report filing required by the Tennessee Secretary of State. This proactive approach helps prevent penalties and ensures your corporation remains in good standing. The single, affordable monthly plan covers formation filing, registered agent services, EIN registration, and compliance monitoring, offering exceptional value compared to hiring individual service providers or a law firm for these specific tasks. It's important to note that Lovie prepares and submits filings; we do not provide legal advice or issue government documents. Our role is to facilitate the administrative and procedural aspects of formation efficiently and accurately. By leveraging Lovie, you can focus your energy on strategic business development, product innovation, and market growth, rather than getting bogged down in bureaucratic procedures. Nashville is a vibrant hub for business growth, and establishing your C-Corp correctly from the outset is critical. Lovie empowers entrepreneurs and business owners by simplifying the formation process, making it accessible, affordable, and efficient. Our platform is designed to handle the complexities, allowing you to launch your C-Corp with confidence and clarity, setting a strong foundation for future success in the competitive Nashville market. Partnering with Lovie means choosing a streamlined, tech-driven approach to corporate formation, backed by a commitment to supporting your business journey from day one.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to form a C-Corp in Nashville?
The timeframe for C-Corp formation in Nashville, Tennessee, can vary. Typically, the state's processing time for the Certificate of Incorporation is between 3-5 business days if filed electronically. However, this does not include the time needed to prepare the documents, appoint a registered agent, or hold the initial organizational meetings. If you file by mail, processing can take longer, potentially 1-2 weeks. After the state approves your Certificate of Incorporation, you'll need to hold organizational meetings, adopt bylaws, issue stock, and obtain an EIN from the IRS, which can be done almost immediately online. Securing necessary local business licenses and permits in Nashville can add additional time, depending on the complexity and specific requirements of your industry. Overall, from starting the process to being fully operational with all necessary filings complete, expect it to take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks, assuming no delays or issues arise during the filing or approval stages.
What are the main differences between a C-Corp and an S-Corp in Tennessee?
The primary differences between a C-Corp and an S-Corp relate to taxation and ownership restrictions. A C-Corp is the standard corporate structure where profits are taxed at the corporate level, and then dividends distributed to shareholders are taxed again at the individual level (double taxation). C-Corps have no restrictions on the number or type of shareholders and can issue multiple classes of stock, making them ideal for attracting venture capital. An S-Corp, on the other hand, is a tax election made with the IRS, not a separate legal entity type. An eligible C-Corp or LLC can elect S-Corp status to be treated as a 'pass-through' entity for tax purposes, avoiding double taxation. However, S-Corps have strict eligibility requirements: they must have 100 or fewer shareholders, all of whom must be U.S. citizens or resident aliens, and they can only have one class of stock. While Tennessee recognizes the S-Corp tax election for federal purposes, it does not have a separate state-level S-Corp designation; Tennessee generally follows federal tax treatment for S-Corps.
Can I be my own registered agent for a C-Corp in Nashville?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent for a C-Corporation in Nashville, Tennessee, provided you meet the state's requirements. This means you must have a physical street address within Tennessee (a P.O. Box is not acceptable) and be available at that address during normal business hours (typically 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday) to accept service of process and other official legal documents on behalf of the corporation. While this saves on the cost of hiring a commercial registered agent service, it comes with significant considerations. You must be diligent about maintaining a reliable address and ensuring someone is always available to receive critical mail. Failure to do so can lead to missed legal notices, potential default judgments against your corporation, and ultimately, administrative dissolution by the Tennessee Secretary of State. Many business owners choose a professional registered agent service to ensure compliance and protect their privacy, as their name and address become part of the public record.
What is the franchise tax for a C-Corp in Tennessee?
Tennessee imposes a franchise tax on businesses operating within the state, including C-Corporations. This tax is levied on the 'privilege' of doing business in Tennessee. The calculation is based on the greater of two measures: the net worth of the business, or the value of the real and tangible property owned by the business in Tennessee. The franchise tax rate is $0.001 (or 0.1%) per $100 of the taxable base, with a minimum tax of $100 per year. For C-Corps, calculating net worth involves a specific formula outlined by the Tennessee Department of Revenue, generally including issued and outstanding capital stock, paid-in surplus, and retained earnings. Property owned in Tennessee is valued at its actual or reasonable market value. This tax is in addition to the Hall Income Tax (which applies only to interest and dividends from stocks and bonds, and is being phased out) and other business taxes. Filing the franchise tax return is typically done alongside the corporate income tax return with the Tennessee Department of Revenue.
Do I need an attorney to form a C-Corp in Nashville?
While Tennessee law does not strictly require you to hire an attorney to form a C-Corporation, it is highly recommended, especially for complex business structures or if you are unfamiliar with corporate law. An attorney can ensure your Certificate of Incorporation is drafted correctly, advise on crucial internal documents like bylaws and stock agreements, help you understand your fiduciary duties as directors or officers, and guide you through compliance requirements specific to your industry. They can also help you make informed decisions about corporate governance and potential future funding rounds or exit strategies. For simpler formations or entrepreneurs comfortable with legal processes, services like Lovie can handle the filing and administrative tasks efficiently. However, for comprehensive legal guidance, risk mitigation, and strategic advice tailored to your business goals, consulting with a qualified Tennessee business attorney is invaluable. They can help prevent costly mistakes and ensure your corporation is set up on a solid legal foundation from the start.
How does Lovie help with C-Corp formation in Nashville?
Lovie simplifies the C-Corp formation process in Nashville by preparing and submitting all necessary state filings, including the Certificate of Incorporation, directly to the Tennessee Secretary of State. Our platform ensures accuracy and compliance with state requirements. Our $29/month plan includes essential services such as providing a registered agent, which is a legal requirement for all corporations, and assisting with obtaining your federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Lovie also provides compliance monitoring to help you stay aware of critical deadlines like annual report filings, helping you avoid penalties. We automate many of the administrative burdens associated with formation, allowing you to focus on growing your business. While Lovie handles the procedural aspects of formation and compliance, we do not provide legal advice or act as a law firm. Our goal is to make the formation process efficient, affordable, and straightforward for entrepreneurs.
Lovie is not a government agency, law firm, or professional advisory organization. Lovie is a private business-formation service that prepares and submits filings to the appropriate state agencies on your behalf — we do not issue government documents, and state approval times are not controlled by Lovie. Information on this page is general and not legal, tax, or financial advice.