Expected Notices and Letters

When registering a new business, owners can expect a variety of notices to arrive in the mail.

Updated over a week ago

After the formation of your business, you can anticipate the arrival of the following crucial documents via postal mail, email or fax. These documents necessitate prompt attention and should be diligently managed in an orderly fashion, given their potential necessity in legal, financial, and tax-related affairs, along with ensuring compliance.

Important Documents

Certificate of Formation/Articles of Organization: This is the primary document that officially establishes your business as a legal entity. The specific name and content of this document can vary. The document should be stored in the LLC’s business records.

Business Tax Information: You may receive information about your business's tax obligations, including sales tax, payroll tax, and income tax. This could come from both state and federal tax authorities.

Annual Reports: Some states require businesses to file annual or biennial reports, which provide updated information about your business's ownership and activities. These come with an associated fee. Notices are either sent out by email or mail. In a few states, notices are not sent.

Franchise Tax Notices: If your business operates in a state with franchise taxes, you may receive notices about the amount of franchise tax due and the due date.

Legal Notices: You may receive legal notices related to your business, such as notifications of lawsuits, liens, or other legal matters. The documents are typically served on the Registered Agent and forwarded to the contact for the LLC.

Business License/Permit Renewal Notices: If your business requires specific permits that need regular renewal, you may receive renewal notices in the mail.

Notices from Regulatory Agencies: Depending on your industry, you may receive notifications and updates from regulatory agencies overseeing your business activities.

What Items Can Be Ignored?

After forming a company, you may encounter business solicitations, which are communications or offers from other businesses or individuals seeking to sell products, services, or opportunities to your company. These solicitations can arrive through various means like letters, emails, phone calls, or in-person visits. While some may be legitimate, there are potential challenges to consider.

Examples of Solicitations

Good Standing Certificate Offers: These solicitations may offer to provide a good standing certificate, which can usually be obtained directly from your state's business authority at a lower cost.

Annual Report Offers: Offers to help with filing annual reports can often be ignored, as these reports can typically be handled in-house or through your registered agent.

Corporate Kit and Minute Book Offers: These solicitations suggest the purchase of organizational documents that can usually be prepared internally or obtained from various sources.

Offers to Publish: Offers to publish your business's information in directories or publications may provide limited value and can often be safely ignored.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this document is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or tax advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for obtaining accounting or other financial advice from an appropriate financial adviser or for the purpose of avoiding U.S. Federal, state or local tax payments and penalties.

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