Ownership+Structure

** Steps to Incorporate in Tennessee **
 * Visit the business services section of the Tennessee Department of State website. This page contains a list of filing guides in PDF format. Read both the "Corporate Filing and Information Services" brochure and the "For-Profit" filing guide. These publications give an overview of the incorporation process and further explanation as you navigate the online system.
 * Conduct a business name search to ensure that the business name you want to use is available. To do this, access the "Business sevrvices Searches" database on the left of the Web page. Select "Business Name Availability" from the drop-down menu.
 * Obtain an employer identification number from the IRS website at IRS.gov. Because Tennessee has integrated its business registration system with its business tax system, you will have to provide an EIN to establish a user name and password for the electronic filing system. Follow the instructions on the IRS website to receive a EIN immediately, without having to wait for the number to arrive by mail.
 * Return to the Tennessee website and click on the "File Domestic Formation Documents" link. This takes you to the filing portal. You must register as a new user to proceed. Log in and follow the prompts. The system will ask you to select an entity type (corporation), to enter the business name and address, to indicate a registered agent for service of process and to enter the name, address, phone number and Social Security number of the person incorporating the business. The system generates the articles of incorporation charter and files them with the state after you pay a filing fee
 * If you cannot use the electronic system to file your incorporation papers, access the Corporations menu at the top of the business services page and select Forms and Fees. Here you can download a fillable form titled Charter from the for-profit corporation section. Complete the form and mail or hand-deliver it with the appropriate fee.