# Obtaining Massachusetts Articles of Incorporation
Articles of Incorporation MA are the documents filed with the state to legally create a corporation. The following sections will outline the paperwork, fees, and registration procedures specific to Massachusetts, along with tips on navigating potential roadblocks and ensuring your application is approved.
## Steps to Acquiring Certified Copies
In most states, a certified copy can be requested by visiting the office of the Secretary of State in person or by phone, mail, or the state’s online system. A certified copy typically costs a little more to get.
## Finding Your Articles of Incorporation
To find your Massachusetts articles of incorporation, you can use the online services offered by the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth:
- **Option 1:** Create an account on the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth website and select “Certificate of Organization” under the Domestic LLC section.
- **Option 2:** Access the Certificate of Organization PDF from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth website.
## Choosing Between LLC and Sole Proprietorship
Depending on your particular business needs and objectives, you may choose between a sole proprietorship and an LLC. LLCs allow for many owners and provide limited liability protection, whereas sole proprietorships, although easier to set up and run, do not offer liability protection.
## Business Name Reservation and Differences
Reserving a business name in Massachusetts is a separate action from your Articles of Incorporation:
1. File an Application of Reservation of Name with a $30 fee to reserve usage of your corporation's name for 60 days.
2. You can extend the reservation by paying an additional $30 for another 60 days.
The difference between your corporation's legal name and a trade name is important to understand when dealing with legal documents and filing with the state.
## Required Documentation and Fees
- Articles of Organization submission: Online or via mail.
- Filing fee: [$275] as of the latest update.
- Additional filing requirements may include designating a registered agent and the board of directors.
## LLCs in Massachusetts
To establish a limited liability company (LLC) in Massachusetts:
1. Submit articles of organization to the Corporations Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
2. Pay the filing fee and receive your certificate of organization upon approval.
## Public Access to Incorporation Documents
Yes, articles of incorporation filed in Massachusetts are public records and can be accessed through the Secretary of State's website.
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