Whether you are starting a business or incorporating an existing one in Tennessee, you’ll want to understand state requirements for Tennessee corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).
Tennessee Corporation Formation Requirements
Cost to incorporate. BizFilings clearly outlines our fees and the state fees to form a corporation in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee 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 Charter.
Corporate name. The name must include the word "Corporation," Incorporated," "Company," or an abbreviation thereof, including words or abbreviations in a foreign language. It must be distinguishable in the Secretary of State's records from any corporate or assumed name of a domestic or qualified foreign corporation, a reserved or registered name under Tennessee law, or the name of a not-for-profit corporation, limited partnership, or limited liability company. Use of the words “Bank,” “Credit Union,” “Mortgage,” and “Trust” requires approval by the Department of Financial Institutions.
Director information. The following are Tennessee’s requirements for directors of corporations.
- Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
- Residence requirements. Tennessee does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. Tennessee does not have age requirements.
- Inclusion in the Charter. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Charter.
Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Charter.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Charter. An increase in the number of shares or par value does not 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 Tennessee. 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 Tennessee for professional services businesses.