How to register a Delaware C Corp- Step by Step Guide?

Have you ever questioned yourself why so many startups and Fortune 500 companies, regardless of their size, choose Delaware? You are not the only one. It is a business paradise with an entrepreneur-friendly legal system, a stable judicial system, and a flexible corporate system.  

OCPBIZ will take you through the whole process of delaware corporation registration and beyond. We made it easy to follow by breaking it down into small steps so that you can complete the process of registering your company in Delaware with confidence. 

Know Reason Why a Delaware C Corp Could be the Right Choice? 

Make sure that a delaware corporation registration for C Corp fits your business purposes before you begin completing the paperwork. 

  • Predictability of Law  : The Delaware Court of Chancery has a track record of corporate litigation, and its courts have a high level of predictability. 
  • Investor Friendliness  : Venture capitalists and angel investors will be used to Delaware structures, which can facilitate fundraising. 
  • Tax Implications   : Delaware taxes are usually good, but a delaware c corp can be subject to federal corporate tax, consider the advantages and disadvantages with a tax expert. 
  • Scalability : C-corp has been designed to grow, and permit various types of stock as well as infinity number of shareholders. 

In case these benefits are in line with your vision, then you are now set to proceed to the registration procedures. 

Select a Distinctive and Compliant Business Name 

The name of your company will be the initial impression of your company to the world. There are some regulations that Delaware needs to maintain in order to make it unique and suitable. 

  • Check the Delaware Division of Corporations database to ensure that the name is not registered. 
  • Append a company designation like Inc., Corporation or Corp. to the name to register company in delaware  
  • The use of limited terms (e.g. Bank, Insurance) should be avoided unless you possess the required licenses. 

An appropriate name does not only pass the Delaware corporation registration bar but also assists you to be distinguished in the market. 

Choose a Registered Agent 

According to the law of the state of Delaware, all corporations have to keep a registered agent in the state, who has a physical address prior to delaware company register. Your legal and tax documents are received by this agent. 

  • Professional Services 

There are numerous companies that handle representation as a registered agent at a small fee every year. 

  • In-state Presence 

The agent should possess a physical address (not PO boxes) in Delaware. 

  • Reliability 

Select an agent with forward-mailing, Web-based document views, and compliance alerts. 

In case you do not know where to begin, then have OCPBIZ do this on your behalf. We provide you this service along with our services. Our experienced team is quite capable and can ensure that you always remain compliant. 

Make and Submit Certificate of Incorporation 

The Certificate of Incorporation (also known as Articles of Incorporation) is the foundational document. It is the official article that forms your corporation. 

Key elements to include: 
  • Corporate name 
  • Registered name of agent and address. 
  • Name and signature of incorporator. 
  • Approved shares and par value. 
  • Purpose clause (general statement such to participate in any legal activity) 

Filing Options 

You get a lot of options to choose, like: 

  • Online 

Use the portal on the Delaware Division of Corporations. 

  • Mail  

Submit the form and filing fee to the office of the Division. 

  • Fees  

The filing fee changes according to the amount of authorized shares. There will be a minimum franchise tax and a base fee. 

The state will then grant the filing, which means that you will get a certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation, the legal confirmation that the Delaware company register is complete. 

Get Employer Identification Number (EIN) 

The EIN, which is a product of the IRS acts as your own Social Security number in business. You will need it for: 

  • Opening a business bank account 
  • Hiring employees 
  • Filing federal taxes 

Register on the site of IRS. Don’t worry, it is free and you will get the number immediately. 

State Taxes and Licenses Registration (Where Necessary)  

Although the franchise tax is the main state tax that should be paid by corporations in Delaware, you might also require: 

  • Registration of state taxes, Delaware state taxation- In the event that you will have employees and physical presence in the state. 
  • Business licenses for businesses that need extra licenses (e.g. hospitality, healthcare). 

The Delaware Division of Revenue has certain requirements associated with your business activities that should be checked on the site. 

Adhere to Continuing Corporate Formalities 

The job is not completed once the Delaware corporation registration is made. Continuing compliance keeps your C-corp in a good position: 

  • Annual Tax on Franchises and Report  

Payable on or before March 1st of each year. The sum of which is charged to the amount authorized to be shared or the value that may have been attributed to the shares. 

  • Board and Shareholders Meetings Annual 

Prepare minutes of board and shareholders. Keep corporate resolutions. 

  • Keep a Registered Agent  

Make sure that they are active and updated with all changes of address. 

Just make sure that you follow the basic guidelines. You will get registered in no time at all. 

Get OCPBIZ to Registration Hustle 

The process of getting around the register company in Delaware may seem like a nightmare, particularly when dealing with product development, fundraising, and team building. That’s where OCPBIZ steps in: 

  • Full-service Incorporation : Name availability checks to submission of the Certificate of Incorporation. 
  • Registered Agent Service  : Delaware based with reliable address and all legal notices. 
  • Compliance Review : Automated reminders on franchise tax, annual reports, and other statutory requirements. 

Post-incorporation Services  : The services of EIN procurement, creation of bylaws, and opening bank accounts. 

To be honest, OCPBIZ is an experienced partner. We are aware of what is required to register a company in the state of Delaware to get off the ground. While you are free to concentrate on what matters most of all which is to expand your business. 

Take the First Step Today 

Be it a one-person founder or an experienced businessperson trying to expand an already existing business, the delaware corporation registration procedure is a time-tested route. It is respected and brings you investors along with legal security. All above the paperwork should be tidy and disciplined with annual requirements. 

Ready to make it official? Allow OCPBIZ to assist you in every step, such as name search, continuing compliance. You will be confident and quick to launch your Delaware C Corp.  Make your business vision a reality that is legally sound.