Form a Corporation in South Dakota
Everything you need to know about forming a Corporation in South Dakota. Filing fees, requirements, timeline, and step-by-step guidance.
How to File
Choose Corporation Name
Select a unique name ending with 'Corporation', 'Corp.', 'Incorporated', or 'Inc.' Check availability through SD SOS website.
30 minutes
Appoint Registered Agent
Designate a registered agent with a South Dakota street address to receive legal documents and state correspondence.
15 minutes
Prepare Articles of Incorporation
Complete the Articles of Incorporation form including corporate name, registered agent, share structure, and incorporator information.
45 minutes
File Articles with Secretary of State
Submit completed Articles of Incorporation along with $150 filing fee to the South Dakota Secretary of State.
15 minutes
What's Next After Filing
Once your Corporation is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •Create Corporate Bylaws — Draft internal governing documents outlining corporate operations, officer duties, and shareholder meetings procedures.
- •Hold Initial Board Meeting — Conduct first board meeting to adopt bylaws, elect officers, authorize stock issuance, and handle initial corporate resolutions.
- •Obtain EIN and Business Licenses — Apply for federal EIN from IRS and obtain any required state or local business licenses for your industry.
Advantages
- ✓No state corporate income tax
- ✓Low annual report fee of only $25
- ✓Strong privacy protections for shareholders
- ✓Business-friendly legal environment with modern corporate statutes
Considerations
- •Limited liability protection requires strict corporate formalities
- •Double taxation on corporate profits and dividends
- •More complex compliance requirements than LLCs
Annual Obligations
What OpenChamber Does
We don't file paperwork for you — we guide you through doing it yourself, which saves money and helps you understand your business from day one.
Personalized Checklist
Every task you need, organized by priority and tailored to South Dakota.
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Progress Tracking
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