Whether you are starting a business or incorporating an existing one in West Virginia, you’ll want to understand state requirements for West Virginia corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).
West Virginia Corporation Formation Requirements
Cost to incorporate. BizFilings clearly outlines our fees and the state fees to form a corporation in West Virginia. 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 West Virginia 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 "Company," "Corporation," "Incorporated," "Limited," or an abbreviation thereof. The name must not be the same as or deceptively similar to a name already in use by another existing corporation or foreign corporation qualified to do business in West Virginia, without written consent of the other corporation, or by a court order establishing the right of the applicant to use the name. The name must not imply a purpose other than that stated in the Articles of Incorporation.
Director information. The following are West Virginia’s requirements for directors of corporations.
- Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
- Residence requirements. West Virginia does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. West Virginia 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 West Virginia. 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 West Virginia for professional services businesses.