Whether you are starting a business or incorporating an existing one in Rhode Island, you’ll want to understand state requirements for Rhode Island corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).
Rhode Island Corporation Formation Requirements
Cost to incorporate. BizFilings clearly outlines our fees and the state fees to form a corporation in Rhode Island. View our pricing to plainly see:
- BizFilings’ package prices. BizFilings offers three incorporation service packages from which you can choose.
- State fee for standard turn-around. Our pricing clearly shows the state fee to incorporate in Rhode Island with standard turn-around.
- Expedited turn-around. You will see the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for expedited turn-around.
- Certified copy. Our pricing also clearly displays the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for issuing a Certified Copy of the Articles of Incorporation.
Corporate name. The name must contain the word "Corporation," "Company," "Incorporated," "Limited," or an abbreviation thereof. The name must not be deceptively similar to any domestic or foreign corporation, limited partnership, foreign limited partnership authorized to do business in the state, or reserved or registered name, unless written consent is obtained from the holder of such name. It may not contain any word implying the corporation was formed for a purpose for which it is not organized.
Director information. The following are Rhode Island’s requirements for directors of corporations.
- Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
- Residence requirements. Rhode Island does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. Rhode Island does not have age requirements.
- Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no P.O. Boxes) in Rhode Island. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.
Professional services businesses. Professional corporations (PCs) are allowed to be formed in Rhode Island for professional services businesses.