Which document is essential to verify the existence of a corporation?

The Articles of Incorporation are a fundamental document that serves as the official record for the existence of a corporation. This document is filed with the state government and includes essential information such as the corporation’s name, address, purpose, and the number of shares it is authorized to issue. It acts as the foundational legal document that establishes the corporation as a separate legal entity from its owners.

When someone wants to verify the existence of a corporation, they will look for the Articles of Incorporation because it is the primary document that indicates that the corporation has been legally formed in compliance with state laws. This document is also critical in providing proof that the corporation is recognized by the state, which is crucial for conducting business and for certain legal protections.

Other documents like the Certificate of Authority pertain to the corporation’s ability to operate in a different state, while Corporate Bylaws govern internal operations, and a Memorandum of Trust would relate to estates or trusts, not directly verifying corporate existence. Thus, the Articles of Incorporation stand out as the key document demonstrating that a corporation has been established and recognized legally.