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Model Articles of Association are standardized templates that show how to structure and govern a corporation. Think of them as ready-made rulebooks that cover the basic ways a company should operate, from holding board meetings to issuing shares. The U.S. Secretary of State's office in each state typically provides these default templates.

Companies can adopt these model articles as-is or customize them to fit specific needs. They're especially helpful for small business owners and startups who want to incorporate quickly without drafting complex governance documents from scratch. Most state corporation laws automatically apply these model articles when companies don't create their own specialized versions.

Model Articles of Association work best when you're launching a new corporation and need to get up and running quickly. They're particularly valuable for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want standard governance rules without spending thousands on custom legal work. The pre-approved language in these templates already complies with state requirements.

Many companies use Model Articles during their initial incorporation phase, especially when time and budget constraints make custom drafting impractical. They're also useful when forming subsidiary corporations that can operate under standard governance rules, or when establishing simple business structures that don't need complex customization.

• Standard Articles: Basic governance rules that work for most small corporations, covering essential items like shareholder meetings and director roles
• Professional Service Articles: Modified versions for law firms, medical practices, and other licensed professionals, with specific provisions about ownership requirements
• Non-Profit Articles: Specialized templates that include charitable purpose clauses and membership structures required for tax-exempt status
• Close Corporation Articles: Simplified versions for family businesses or small groups of shareholders, with fewer formal requirements
• Tech Startup Articles: Modern templates with provisions for stock options, multiple share classes, and founder protections

• Business Founders: Primary users who adopt Model Articles when incorporating their companies, often choosing them for quick setup and standard governance
• Corporate Attorneys: Review and modify the templates to fit specific client needs, ensuring compliance with state laws
• Board Members: Follow and implement these rules in their governance duties and decision-making processes
• Shareholders: Bound by these articles regarding voting rights, meeting procedures, and share transfer restrictions
• State Officials: Review and approve these documents during the incorporation process, ensuring they meet legal requirements

• Basic Company Details: Gather your business name, registered address, and intended state of incorporation
• Ownership Structure: Decide on share classes, number of shares, and initial shareholders
• Management Setup: Define board structure, officer positions, and decision-making processes
• State Requirements: Check your state's specific rules for Model Articles content and filing
• Template Selection: Choose appropriate Model Articles template based on business type and needs
• Internal Review: Have key stakeholders review the draft to ensure it matches business goals

• Company Name & Purpose: Legal business name and primary business objectives
• Share Structure: Classes of shares, rights attached, and transfer restrictions
• Board Composition: Number of directors, appointment process, and meeting procedures
• Voting Rights: Shareholder voting procedures and majority requirements
• Officer Positions: Required corporate officers and their duties
• Amendment Process: Procedures for changing the articles
• Dissolution Terms: Rules for winding up the corporation
• Indemnification: Protection clauses for directors and officers

Model Articles of Association are often confused with Articles of Incorporation, but they serve distinct purposes in corporate formation. While both are foundational documents, they function differently in establishing and running a business.

• Primary Purpose: Articles of Incorporation officially create the corporation and establish its existence with the state, while Model Articles of Association govern how the company operates internally
• Timing: Articles of Incorporation must be filed first to form the company, then Model Articles are adopted to manage ongoing operations
• Content Focus: Articles of Incorporation contain basic information like company name and registered agent, while Model Articles detail governance rules, shareholder rights, and management procedures
• Modification Process: Articles of Incorporation require state filing for changes, but Model Articles can often be amended through internal corporate procedures