GlossaryUS
What are Articles of Organization?
LLC formation document (in Delaware: Certificate of Formation)
Short answer
Articles of Organization is the public document filed with the state that creates an LLC. Wyoming uses this name; in Delaware the equivalent filing is called a Certificate of Formation.
Explained
At a minimum it states the company’s name and the registered agent’s name and address, and the name must include a designator such as “LLC”, “L.L.C.” or “Limited Liability Company”. In Wyoming an organizer signs it, an email address is given and the registered agent’s signed consent is attached. Under Delaware law an LLC is formed when the certificate is filed, or at a later time stated in it.
The filing is public: documents filed in Wyoming, including signatures, are public record. In Delaware the certificate does not have to list the members or managers.
Good to know
- The formation document does not prove who owns the company; the internal rules are in the operating agreement.
- State processing times vary by filing method and season; no fixed timeline can be promised.
- Once it is filed, annual state obligations such as the annual report and taxes begin.
Official sources
- Wyoming Secretary of State — LLC Articles of Organization
- Delaware Code — Limited Liability Company Act §18-201
- Delaware Division of Corporations — FAQ
Verified on:
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; check the official source for the latest position or talk to us.
All terms
