INSTRUCTIONS: ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION FOR A GENERAL STOCK CORPORATION ARTS-GS

This form is required in forming a General Stock Corporation in the state of California. An ARTS-CL is used to form a close corporation and an ARTS-PC is used to form a professional corporation. This form does meet the minimum requirements, but the state still recommends that you consult with an attorney while completing this form. He or she may recommend other provisions as well.

“Articles of Incorporation for a General Stock Corporation ARTS-GS Step 1”

Provide the name of the corporation on the first line of this document. Make sure the corporation’s name meets the requirements set forth by the state. If you’ve reserved a name for the corporation, attach the form to the Articles as well.

“Articles of Incorporation for a General Stock Corporation ARTS-GS Step 2”

Section 2 does not require anything. The section states that the corporation must engage in legal activity.

“Articles of Incorporation for a General Stock Corporation ARTS-GS Step 3”

Provide the agent’s name for the corporation in section 3. Provide the agent’s address if the agent is not a corporation along with the city and zip code. The agent will accept any service of process if the corporation is sued in the future.

“Articles of Incorporation for a General Stock Corporation ARTS-GS Step 4”

Provide the number of shares the corporation is authorized to issue in accordance within the Corporate Securities Law of 1968 in section 4.

“Articles of Incorporation for a General Stock Corporation ARTS-GS Step 5”

The incorporator needs to sign and print their name on the bottom of this form.

“Articles of Incorporation for a General Stock Corporation ARTS-GS Step 6”

A $100 filing fee is required within this form. Additionally, a $10 service fee is required if the form is dropped off in person. Make the check or money order payable to the Secretary of State. If you’re dropping off the form, travel to the following address:

Secretary of State

1500 11th Street, 3rd Floor

Sacramento, CA 95814

If you’re mailing the form, use the following address:

Secretary of State

Business Entities, P.O. Box 944260

Sacramento, CA 94244-2600

“Articles of Incorporation for a General Stock Corporation ARTS-GS Step 7”

If you submit two completed copies of this form, the state will provide you with 2 free certified copies.