Form a Corporation in Missouri
Everything you need to know about forming a Corporation in Missouri. Filing fees, requirements, timeline, and step-by-step guidance.
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How to File
Choose and Reserve a Corporate Name
Select a unique name that includes a required corporate designator such as 'Corporation,' 'Incorporated,' 'Company,' or an abbreviation thereof. Conduct a name availability search on the Missouri Secretary of State's online portal and optionally reserve the name for 60 days for a $25 fee.
30 minutes
Designate a Registered Agent
Appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in Missouri who is available during normal business hours to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the corporation. The registered agent can be an individual Missouri resident or a business entity authorized to do business in Missouri.
15 minutes
File Articles of Incorporation
Prepare and file Articles of Incorporation with the Missouri Secretary of State, including the corporate name, registered agent information, number of authorized shares, incorporator details, and optional provisions. Filing can be completed online through the Missouri Secretary of State's Business Services portal or by mailing a paper form.
1 hour
Appoint Initial Directors
Identify and appoint the initial board of directors, who will oversee the corporation's management until the first shareholder meeting. Missouri law requires at least one director, and their names and addresses may be listed in the Articles of Incorporation or established at the organizational meeting.
30 minutes
What's Next After Filing
Once your Corporation is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •Hold Organizational Meeting and Adopt Bylaws — Conduct the initial organizational meeting of the board of directors to adopt corporate bylaws, issue shares of stock, elect officers, and address other foundational matters. Bylaws are not filed with the state but serve as the internal governing document for the corporation.
- •Obtain EIN and Open a Business Bank Account — Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS at no cost, which is required for tax filing, hiring employees, and opening a business bank account. Use the EIN to open a dedicated corporate bank account to maintain separation between personal and business finances.
- •Register for Missouri State Taxes and Obtain Licenses — Register with the Missouri Department of Revenue for applicable state taxes, including corporate income tax and sales tax if selling taxable goods or services. Obtain any required local or industry-specific business licenses or permits needed to legally operate in Missouri.
Advantages
- ✓Limited liability protection shields shareholders' personal assets from corporate debts and legal judgments
- ✓Easier to raise capital by issuing shares of stock to investors, making it attractive for venture capital and outside investment
- ✓Corporations have perpetual existence, meaning the business continues regardless of ownership changes or the death of a shareholder
- ✓Potential for tax advantages through S-Corp election, employee benefit deductions, and splitting income between salary and dividends
Considerations
- •Subject to double taxation as a C-Corp — the corporation pays corporate income tax and shareholders pay personal income tax on dividends
- •More complex formation, governance, and compliance requirements compared to LLCs, including mandatory bylaws, board meetings, and annual reports
- •Higher administrative burden with strict recordkeeping requirements such as maintaining minutes, resolutions, and a stock ledger
Annual Obligations
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