The District of Columbia government processes the formation of DC corporations. Individuals seeking to form a for-profit or nonprofit corporation file with the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). DC entrepreneurs or civic-minded individuals can form a business or nonprofit corporation in DC. Those who wish to register can obtain incorporation forms from the DCRA and pay a fee to form a corporate entity in the District of Columbia.
Step 1:
Go to the DCRA “Corporate Registration” page (see Sources). This page provides links for each type of business entity formed through Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Corporations Division. Use the “Corporate Registration: For Profit Services” link if you wish to start a business corporation. Use the “Corporate Regisration: Nonprofit” link to start a nonprofit organization like a charity, school or church.
Step 2:
Scroll down to “Related Documents” when you visit the page that applies to your chosen DC corporate structure. You can find the “Articles of Incorporation” links. However, keep in mind that there are three main types of for-profit corporations in the District of Columbia: business, business close and professional corporations. For example, a group of licensed doctors may choose to open a professional corporation. Look at each “Articles of Incorporation” form or consult with a DC business attorney to get more details about how to choose the best corporate structure for your particular business.
Step 3:
Fill out the “Articles of Incorporation” form for your business or nonprofit corporation. If issuing stock, the filing fee increases as the authorized capital increases. Consider your business needs and financial situation when deciding the amount of authorized capital. Refer to the fee schedule below (subject to change) when filling out your “Articles of Incorporation.”
Step 4:
Prepare the fee for filing your DC corporation. As of 2010, the fee for a business corporation depends on the amount of authorized capital as follows: $203.50 for capital up to $100,000; $550 for capital more than $100,000 but not more than $500,000; $1100 for capital more than $500,000 but not more than $1 million; and $1650 for capital more than $1 million. The fee for a DC nonprofit is $77. The DCRA also has one-day expedited service for an additional $100 and 3-day service for $50.
Make out a check to “D.C. Treasurer” if mailing in your corporate filing forms and fee. You may also pay by cash, Visa or MasterCard if filing in person.
Step 5:
Mail in or personally deliver the “Articles of Incorporation” and fee. If delivering in person, go to the second-floor Business Licensing Center at 1100 4th Street, SW.
Use the following applicable address if sending in your filing form:
USPS Mailings:
Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
Corporations Division
P.O. Box 92300
Washington, DC 20090
Other Mailings:
Bank of America Lockbox Services
Lockbox #92300
11333 McCormick Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21031
If you have additional questions, contact the DCRA at 202-442-4400.
Sources:
Corporate Registration Page (DC Consumer and Regulatory Affairs)
