Form a Corporation in New Hampshire
Everything you need to know about forming a Corporation in New Hampshire. Filing fees, requirements, timeline, and step-by-step guidance.
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How to File
Choose a Corporate Name
Select a unique name for your corporation that includes a designator such as 'Corporation,' 'Incorporated,' 'Corp.,' or 'Inc.' Verify name availability using the New Hampshire Secretary of State's online business name search tool.
30 minutes
Appoint a Registered Agent
Designate a registered agent with a physical street address in New Hampshire who is authorized to receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of the corporation. The agent can be an individual resident or a registered commercial agent.
1-2 hours
File Articles of Incorporation
Prepare and file the Articles of Incorporation with the New Hampshire Secretary of State, Division of Corporations, either online through the QuickStart portal or by mail. The form must include the corporate name, registered agent information, purpose, number of authorized shares, and incorporator details.
1-2 hours
Pay the Filing Fee
Submit the $100 filing fee along with your Articles of Incorporation. Online filings can be paid by credit card, while mail-in filings require a check payable to the State of New Hampshire.
15 minutes
What's Next After Filing
Once your Corporation is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •Draft Corporate Bylaws — Create corporate bylaws that govern the internal operations of the corporation, including provisions for shareholder meetings, director responsibilities, officer roles, and voting procedures. While not filed with the state, bylaws are essential governance documents.
- •Hold an Organizational Meeting — Conduct the initial organizational meeting of the board of directors to adopt bylaws, elect officers, authorize the issuance of stock, and address other foundational business matters. Record meeting minutes for your corporate records.
- •Obtain EIN and Fulfill Tax Obligations — Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS, register with the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration for applicable state taxes, and obtain any required local business licenses or permits.
Advantages
- ✓Limited liability protection shields shareholders' personal assets from corporate debts and legal judgments
- ✓Ability to raise capital by issuing multiple classes of stock and attracting investors or venture capital
- ✓Perpetual existence — the corporation continues regardless of ownership changes or shareholder death
- ✓New Hampshire has no personal income tax and no sales tax, creating a tax-friendly environment for business operations
Considerations
- •Subject to double taxation — corporate profits are taxed at the corporate level via the Business Profits Tax, and dividends distributed to shareholders may be taxed federally
- •More complex governance and administrative requirements compared to LLCs, including mandatory board meetings, officer elections, and detailed recordkeeping
- •Higher formation and compliance costs relative to simpler business structures like sole proprietorships or partnerships
Annual Obligations
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