While the term Articles of Incorporation generally refers to the foundational document for corporations, the content and requirements can vary depending on the type of business structure. Understanding these differences is critical to ensure compliance and proper formation.

For-profit corporations are the most common type of corporation. Their Articles of Incorporation focus on:

• Corporate name with required identifiers like “Inc.” or “Corporation”

• Purpose of the business

• Registered agent and office address

• Share structure, including authorized shares and classes

• Names of incorporators

• Optional provisions, such as limits on director liability

For-profit corporations are primarily focused on profit generation, so clearly defining ownership, shares, and governance is essential for legal compliance and investor confidence.

Nonprofit corporations operate differently because they are organized for charitable, educational, religious, or social purposes, rather than profit. Articles of Incorporation for nonprofits typically include:

• Nonprofit purpose clause specifying the mission

• No ownership by individuals (profits are reinvested into the organization)

• Registered agent and office address

• Names of incorporators

• Provisions for dissolution, specifying how assets will be used if the corporation ends

Nonprofit Articles are carefully drafted to comply with IRS requirements for tax-exempt status and state regulations for charitable organizations.

Some states allow certain professions—like lawyers, doctors, or accountants—to form professional corporations or PLLCs. Their Articles of Incorporation must include:

• Professional licensing requirements for directors or shareholders

• Corporate name reflecting the professional status

• Purpose limited to the specific licensed profession

• Registered agent and office

• Share structure (if applicable)

This structure provides limited liability for owners while ensuring professional accountability.

A close corporation is a small, closely held corporation with a limited number of shareholders. Articles of Incorporation for close corporations often:

• Include restrictions on share transfers

• Allow flexible management structures, often bypassing formal boards

• Specify shareholder agreements

These provisions help maintain control among a small group of owners and reduce regulatory burdens.

Large corporations planning to sell stock on public exchanges may have Articles that:

• Outline authorized shares for public trading

• Include provisions for board structure and governance

• Comply with securities regulations

These Articles are drafted with investor protection, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance in mind.

Articles of Incorporation are not one-size-fits-all; they must be tailored to the specific business structure. For-profit corporations, nonprofits, professional corporations, close corporations, and publicly traded companies all have unique requirements to meet legal standards and operational goals.

Understanding these differences ensures the corporation is properly formed, legally compliant, and prepared for its intended purpose, whether that is generating profit, serving a nonprofit mission, or operating a professional service.