While many Georgia businesses are required to register with the Corporations Division, businesses often need local operating licenses, federal operating licenses depending on the business, and/or state-level professional licenses. In certain cases, employees may need to be individually licensed as well.
A foreign entity is an entity that was initially formed in another state. In order to expand your business into Georgia, you must first register your foreign corporation, limited liability company, or limited partnership with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Georgia. Georgia code § 14-2-206 (2021) requires the incorporators or board of directors to adopt bylaws.
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Any company registered in Georgia can order certified copies of its official formation documents from the Georgia Secretary of State. Processing time is typically 5 business days plus mailing time.
Online filings are generally processed within 7 to 10 business days of receipt by the Division. Paper filings submitted by mail or hand-delivery, and paper filings submitted online are generally processed in 15 business days of receipt by the Division.
Does forming a nonprofit mean I don't need Georgia business licenses or permits? Forming a nonprofit does not take the place of obtaining a business license, tax registration certificate, and other required business permits.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Georgia. The board of directors usually adopts initial bylaws at the first organizational meeting.
The state of Georgia only requires nonprofit organizations to have one board member, but the IRS rarely provides tax-exempt status with less than three unrelated board members. It is recommended for nonprofits to have three to twenty-five board members depending on the size and purpose of the organization.