Start 2026 in Good Standing: Your Annual Business Compliance Checklist

The beginning of a new year is the ideal time to reset, review, and prepare your business for a strong and compliant year ahead. Whether you're launching a new company, managing multiple existing entities, or supporting clients as a professional partner, a clear January checklist helps prevent costly mistakes and ensures you're starting 2026 with clarity and confidence.

This guide walks you through the most important compliance steps for the new year , and highlights how American Incorporators can support your business nationwide.

Good standing means your business has met all state requirements for operating legally. In January, review:

• Any outstanding annual reports
• Unpaid franchise taxes or fees
• Notices from your Registered Agent
• Returned or undelivered mail
• Compliance alerts from the Secretary of State

Falling out of good standing can lead to penalties, delays, and restrictions. If issues arise, American Incorporators can help reinstate your entity and restore compliance in any state.

2.) Review Your Registered Agent Information

A Registered Agent must always remain accurate and active in each state your business operates in.

Verify:

• Your Registered Agent is current and valid
• The Registered Agent’s address is correct
• Your company contact information is updated
• You are receiving all official notices

If your Registered Agent changed, moved, or isn’t meeting your needs, January is the best time to switch to American Incorporators reliable nationwide Registered Agent services.

3.) Update Corporate Records & Internal Documents

Use January to review your business’s core documents, including:

• Operating Agreements or Bylaws
• Meeting minutes and resolutions
• Stock or membership logs
• Officer, director, or member lists
• Licenses and permits
• EIN documentation
• Previous year filing confirmations

Accurate internal records make it easier to file correctly, secure financing, manage ownership, and respond to audits or requests.

4.) Check for Multi-State Filing Requirements

If your business grew in 2025, your compliance requirements may have changed.

Ask:

• Did we hire employees in other states?
• Did we open a new location or warehouse?
• Are we selling in new states?
• Did any team members go remote?
• Did we add contractors or services across state lines?

If yes, you may need a Foreign Qualification. American Incorporators can determine where filings are required and complete them accurately and on time.

5.) Review Your 2026 Annual Report Due Dates

Every state has different annual report filing deadlines, and preparing early makes compliance easier.

January is the ideal time to:

• Confirm when filings are due
• Collect required business information
• Assign filing responsibilities
• Schedule reminders
• Pre-plan for states with early deadlines

Avoiding last-minute filings protects your good standing and prevents unnecessary fees.

6.) Update Business Addresses, Ownership, or Management

If your company changed last year, an amendment may be required.

Common updates include:

• New business address
• Ownership or membership changes
• Officer or director updates
• Business name changes
• Adding or removing managers
• Changing business structure

American Incorporators can file amendments for any U.S. state or territory, ensuring your information stays accurate and compliant.

7.) Evaluate Additional Business Filings That May Be Needed

As your business evolves, you may require new filings such as:

• New business formations
• Dissolutions
• Reinstatements
• Withdrawals from inactive states
• Corporate conversions
• Mergers
• UCC filings or searches

January is the perfect time to evaluate what your business will need in 2026.

8.) Verify EIN, Banking Information, and IRS Records

Your financial information must match your formation documents.

Review:

• EIN documentation
• Business bank account details
• Authorized signatories
• IRS address records
• Any 2025 changes that require IRS updates

This keeps your business aligned internally and with federal regulations.

9.) Align Your Growth Plans with 2026 Compliance

If you plan to expand this year, review:

• New states you’ll operate in
• Hiring and remote work plans
• New business lines
• Licensing requirements
• Planned reorganizations or restructures

American Incorporators supports your growth with multi-state, nationwide expertise. Need help? See our Foreign Qualification Service.

10.) Avoid Mistakes with Expert Compliance Support

Compliance doesn’t need to be confusing.

American Incorporators provides:

• Accurate filings
• Nationwide Registered Agent Services
• Annual Report Filing Services
• Amendments and reinstatements
• Foreign Qualifications
• Formation Services
• Ongoing compliance guidance

A strong start in January sets the tone for a successful year.

Conclusion: Start 2026 with Clarity and Confidence

January is your business’s reset button, it’s the perfect opportunity to build a compliance foundation that protects and strengthens your company throughout the year.

Whether you’re forming a new business, expanding into new states, updating essential filings, or preparing for annual compliance, American Incorporators is here to help every step of the way.

Start 2026 strong with trusted nationwide support.

At American Incorporators, we believe in personal service. When you contact us, you’ll speak directly with a knowledgeable team member who understands business filings, compliance, and state requirements.

By Chat:
Have Questions? Get help from a Customer Care Specialist online.

By Email:
Send general inquiries to info@ailcorp.com.

By Phone:
Call 800.421.2661 during regular business hours.

By Mail:
American Incorporators Ltd.
1013 Centre Road, Suite 403A
Wilmington, DE 19805

Business Hours:
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM ET

Choosing the Right Business Structure Can Transform Your Business—Here’s Proof.

Selecting the right business structure isn’t just about legal requirements—it can impact your daily operations, tax obligations, and growth potential. Let’s take a look at a real-world example of how choosing the right structure made a difference for one business owner.

Case Study: From Sole Proprietor to S-Corp – A Small Business Success Story

🔹 The Challenge

Lisa, a freelance graphic designer, started her business as a sole proprietor. Over time, she expanded her services, hired contractors, and started earning a six-figure income. However, she was paying high self-employment taxes and felt exposed to legal risks without liability protection.

🔹 The Switch

Lisa transitioned her business into an S-Corp which allowed her to:
✔️ Reduce self-employment taxes by paying herself a reasonable salary and taking additional profits as distributions.
✔️ Protect her personal assets from potential business liabilities.
✔️ Improve her credibility with clients by operating as a registered corporation.

🔹 The Results

After switching to an S-Corp, Lisa saved thousands of dollars in taxes, streamlined her bookkeeping, and felt more secure knowing she had liability protection.

Choosing the Right Structure for Your Business

Whether you're a small business owner, a growing startup, or an established company, the right business structure can optimize operations and maximize benefits.

💡 Thinking about making a switch? We’re here to help!

Contact one of our agents today. Call 800-421-2661 or email us at info@ailcorp.com.

Is Your Business Due for a Change? Here’s How to Tell.

Choosing the right business structure is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a business owner. But as your company evolves, the structure that once made sense might not be the best fit anymore. Switching business structures can help you optimize tax benefits, liability protection, and operational efficiency—but how do you know when it’s time to make the change?

Signs It’s Time to Switch Business Structures

🔹 You’re Paying More Taxes Than Necessary
If your tax burden has increased significantly, your current business structure may not be offering the best deductions and benefits. For example, many LLC owners switch to an S-Corp once they start generating higher profits to save on self-employment taxes.

🔹 Your Liability Exposure Has Changed
As businesses grow, they often take on more contracts, employees, and financial risks. If you started as a sole proprietor or partnership, switching to an LLC or corporation can provide better legal protection for your personal assets.

🔹 You Need to Raise Capital or Attract Investors
C-Corps are often the preferred structure for businesses seeking venture capital or outside investors because they allow for multiple classes of stock and easier equity transfers. If your growth plan includes raising funding, it might be time to reconsider your structure.

🔹 Your Business Is Expanding to Multiple States
If you're operating in multiple states, some business structures might be more favorable due to state tax laws and reporting requirements. A switch to a structure like an S-Corp or C-Corp might help streamline compliance.

🔹 You’re Planning for Long-Term Growth or Succession
LLCs and sole proprietorships often face challenges with succession planning. If you want to set up your business for continued growth after you exit, a corporate structure may offer more flexibility.

How to Make the Transition

Switching business structures involves several steps, including filing paperwork with your state, updating your business registrations, and possibly amending contracts and agreements. At American Incorporators, we guide business owners through this transition seamlessly.

Is it time to switch your business structure? We can help you review your options and empower you to make the best move for your business.

Contact us today! Speak with our agents today at 800-421-2661 or email us at info@ailcorp.com.

Choosing the right business structure is fundamental to your company's success. It affects your legal liabilities, tax obligations, and the ability to attract investment. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of each major business structure.

LLCs (Limited Liability Companies)

• Pros: LLCs provide owners with limited personal liability while offering flexibility in taxation. They are not subject to the double taxation seen in C-Corporations, as profits can be passed through to owners' personal tax returns.
• Cons: LLCs might not be suitable for businesses planning to go public or seeking external equity funding, as investors might prefer the traditional stock structure of a corporation.

S Corporations

• Pros: S Corps offer pass-through taxation and protect owners from personal liability. They also allow for investment through the sale of stock.
• Cons: S Corps have strict criteria, including limits on the number of shareholders (100 max) and shareholder residency requirements.

C Corporations

• Pros: C Corps provide the strongest protection against personal liability and have no restrictions on the number of shareholders. They are ideal for businesses that plan to go public or seek significant external funding.
• Cons: The major drawback is double taxation—once at the corporate level and again at the shareholder level on dividends.

Partnerships

• Pros: Easy to establish and operate, partnerships allow for shared decision-making and burden-sharing among partners.
• Cons: Partners are jointly liable for business debts and liabilities, which can expose personal assets to risk.

Each business structure has its specific benefits and challenges. Your choice will depend on factors like your industry, size, and business goals. 

Some structures are created by a specific filing with state authorities (LLCs and Corporations), others by subsequent filings with the IRS (S-Corps are the same as C-corporations until they file a tax election with the IRS), and some are created with an idea and/or agreement between individuals (sole proprietors and partnerships). 

Unsure which business structure is right for you? 

Call (800) 421-2661 or email us at info@ailcorp.com

Ensuring compliance is crucial for every business owner, not only to meet legal requirements but to maintain operational integrity and company reputation. This checklist focuses on the key areas where American Incorporators can help streamline your compliance processes.

1. Corporate Documentation Compliance

Staying compliant includes familiarizing yourself with and adhering to corporate compliance requirements, such as annual filings. Preparing and filing an annual report can be time-consuming and missing due dates can lead to substantial penalties and risk your company’s good standing with the state.

Checklist:

• • Review and file annual reports on time.
  • Update corporate documents as needed, including changes in management or operational structure.

Key Tip: We provide compliance monitoring, annual report preparation, electronic copies of your reports, and much more! We'll monitor your annual requirements and notify you when payment is due. 

2. Registered Agent Services

Most states require that you maintain a Registered Agent to receive legal documents, state notifications, fees, and tax notices. We offer registered agent service in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Checklist:

• • Ensure your registered agent is current and capable of handling and forwarding important notifications.

Key Tip: With over 45 years of experience, our registered agent services include online access to your company documents & invoices, online bill paying, email reminders for annual reports or fees, and dedicated specialists available Monday through Friday, 8 AM - 5:30 PM EST. 

3. Good Standing Maintenance

Maintaining good standing is vital for compliance, credit purposes, and business reputation.

Checklist:

• • Monitor your business's compliance status with state requirements.

Key Tip: To obtain official confirmation of your entity's status, utilize our document retrieval service and order a Certificate of Good Standing.

4. Corporate Formalities

Adhering to corporate formalities is essential for protecting your business and its owners.

Checklist:

• • Maintain up-to-date bylaws and record annual meeting minutes.

Key Tip: We offer a wide selection of Corporate Kits that are useful for maintaining corporate records and storing important documents. All of our kits include customized by-laws or operating agreements, samples meeting minutes, as well as stock or membership ledgers and certificates.

We also offer a la carte seals, stock certificate and business forms discs if you need to supplement an already existing kit. If you don’t see exactly what you are looking for please reach out to us and we will see if we can meet your specific needs.

5. Business Licenses and Permits

Ensuring all necessary licenses and permits are current avoids legal issues and ensures continuous operation.

Checklist:

• • Regularly review and renew business licenses and permits.

Key Tip: For assistance, reach out to American Incorporators for guidance or referrals.

Regularly attending to these compliance areas with American Incorporators’ support simplifies managing your business's legal obligations, helping you focus more on growth and less on red tape. 

Contact us today if you have any questions or need personalized assistance!

Starting a business is an exciting venture, filled with possibilities and opportunities. One of the first and most important steps in this journey is choosing the right legal structure for your business. The structure you choose affects everything from your liability and taxes to your ability to raise capital.

Step 1: Decide on Your Business Structure Understanding the differences between business structures is crucial. The most common types include:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers liability protection, flexible tax options.
• Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp): Provides the most protection from personal liability, but with more regulations.
• Sole Proprietorship: Simplest form, easy to establish and operate, but does not provide liability protection for personal assets. 
• Partnership: Shared responsibility, suitable for businesses with multiple owners, but does not provide liability protection for personal assets. 

Choosing the right structure depends on your industry, the size of your business, and your long-term goals. American Incorporators can explain your options empowering you to choose a structure aligns with your business needs. If needed, we can refer you to a lawyer or accountant for further guidance on selecting a business structure.

Step 2: Choose a Business Name Your business name is your first impression. It should be memorable, reflect your brand, and comply with state regulations. Use American Incorporators' name check service to ensure the chosen name isn't already in use.

Step 3: Register Your Business File the necessary formation documents with your state's business filing agency. This typically includes Articles of Incorporation for corporations or Articles of Organization for LLCs. American Incorporators streamlines this process by handling the paperwork and ensuring everything is filed correctly and promptly.

Step 4: Obtain EIN and Set Up Bank Accounts An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is like a social security number for your business. It's essential for tax purposes and to open a business bank account. American Incorporators can help you obtain your EIN to set up your financial infrastructure correctly.

Step 5: Comply with Additional Regulations 

Depending on your business type and location, you may need specific licenses and permits. DBAs may need to be filed especially for partnerships or sole proprietors. Additionally, it's important to understand your insurance requirements to protect your business from potential risks. American Incorporators can help with many of these next steps and point you in the direction for any we do not handle internally. 

Incorporating your business is a significant first step toward a successful entrepreneurial journey. By following these steps and leveraging professional help from American Incorporators, you can ensure that your business has a strong and compliant foundation.

Ready to start your business journey? 

Explore Our Incorporation Packages Here: https://www.ailcorp.com/packages or you can contact American Incorporators today for personalized guidance and expert incorporation services! Call (800) 421-2661 or email us at info@ailcorp.com

When it comes to incorporating your business, choosing the right state can make a significant difference.

Delaware stands out as a preferred destination for business incorporation, offering a range of advantages that attract entrepreneurs from across the globe.

Let's explore why Delaware is a top choice and the steps involved in incorporating your business in the First State.

Top Reasons for Incorporating in Delaware:

General Corporation Law: Delaware's General Corporation Law is considered the gold standard for corporate law. Its clarity, flexibility, and business-friendly provisions make it the preferred choice for corporations.

Business-Oriented Legislature: Delaware's legislature is renowned for its expertise in corporate law. The state regularly updates its statutes to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses, ensuring a favorable regulatory environment.

Court System: Delaware boasts a specialized Chancery Court dedicated to handling corporate matters. With expert judges and a streamlined process, the court provides efficient resolution of corporate disputes, enhancing business confidence.

Case Law: Delaware's extensive body of corporate case law provides valuable precedents for corporate officials and legal counsel. The state's rich legal history offers clarity and guidance on a wide range of corporate issues.

Division of Corporations: Delaware's Division of Corporations is known for its efficiency and responsiveness. With expedited filing options and a commitment to customer service, the division facilitates smooth incorporation processes.

Steps to Take When Incorporating Your Business in Delaware:

Choose a Name: Select a unique and memorable name for your business that complies with Delaware's naming requirements.

Appoint Directors/Managers: Determine the individuals who will serve as directors or managers of your corporation or LLC.

Obtain a Registered Agent: Designate a registered agent with a physical address in Delaware to receive legal notifications on behalf of your business.

File Incorporation Paperwork: Prepare and file the necessary documents, such as the Certificate of Incorporation or Certificate of Formation, with the Delaware Department of State.

Review Annual Report and Franchise Tax Requirements: Understand the ongoing reporting and tax obligations for corporations and LLCs in Delaware.

Obtain Required Licenses and Permits: Ensure compliance with state and local licensing requirements for your business activities.

Complete Other Regulatory Obligations: Address additional regulatory requirements, such as obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and opening a business bank account.

Consider Additional Start-Up Considerations: Depending on your business's structure and operations, address additional considerations such as real estate requirements, vendor contracts, and professional licensing.

Incorporate with American Incorporators:

Let American Incorporators help your business get up and running as a viable corporation or limited liability company (LLC). All of our services are available in all 50 states + DC. We are here to help your business from its inception and as it continues to grow and change over time.

American Incorporators Offers:

• LLC and INC Formation
• Registered Agent Services
• Annual Tax Payment
• EIN (Tax ID)
• Foreign Qualification
• Doing Business As
• Certificate of Good Standing
• Corporate Document Copies
• CTA Filing Service
• Amendments
• Kits, Seals & Corporate documents
• Dissolution
• Virtual Office Services
• Boat Registration
• UCC Services

What else do we offer?

Our time, our commitment, and most of all, a level of personal concern for your incorporation order – or any other service you buy from us. We'll make sure everything is delivered in a professional and timely fashion. (If it isn't, we want to hear about it so we can rectify the situation.)

Call us at 800.441.5940 or chat online if you have any questions. We're here to help.

When opening a small business, it’s important to research any business license and permit requirements that may apply to your industry. It does not matter if you're an LLC or Corporation not having proper licensure can be extremely detrimental to your business. It can cause unnecessary stress, confusion, and potential fines.

To help you avoid this and better understand the basics of business licenses, we’ve answered these 4 common questions. 

1. Why Do I Need a Business License?

Obtaining proper business licenses and permits ensures that your business is maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Keeping your business license up to date is just as important as paying your taxes and annual state fees.

When applying for a bank account, you will most likely be asked to present your business license. Your business license can also help you with business financing, and may make things smoother when filing your taxes.  

2. What Are the Different Types of Business Licenses?

Keep in mind that business license types and requirements can vary from federal, state, county, and city levels. The following are a few common types of business licenses and permits to help you gain a general understanding of what you may need.

Basic Business License: This is typically issued by the city or county in which you’ll be operating.

Health Department Permits: If you prepare, serve, or sell food products, this will most likely be required,

Sales Tax License: This license is typically required for the sales of products and services.

Zoning Permits: This permit states authority to use a certain area of land for a certain purpose.

Professional & Occupational Permits : These may be required for services that are regulated by the state. These services may include, but are not limited to:

Medical Services                Legal Services

Tax Servoces                    Real Estate Services

Be sure to review your state laws if you are in an industry that may require an occupational license.

Federal Permits: if your business involves any of the following, it is best to contact federal departments for specific requirements.

Alcohol, Tobacco, or Firearms  Ground Transportation

Drug Manufacturing                Broadcasting

This is a sample of industries that may require federal licensure. Please check with federal agencies for your specific requirements. 

3. Are There Penalties for Not Having a Business License?

If you do not obtain required business licenses and permits, you are highly jeopardizing the security of your company. Not having a business license can leave you legally vulnerable, result in high financial penalties, and in some cases may lead to imprisonment. Aside from this, it negatively impacts your credibility as a business owner and will cause long term negative effects for your business. 

4. How Do I Get a Business License?

Since business licenses are handled on many levels, we suggest doing research with your state to find out exactly what you may need. You may find that your local city hall, state’s government websites, or www.sba.gov are great resources.

Since researching all of the requirements on the Federal, State, Country, and City level can be a time consuming task. American Incorporators Ltd. offers a service that researches, details, and lists all of the licenses and permits you will need. The only thing you would need to do is answer a few quick questions about your business. If you’d like to learn more, visit our Business License page.

Having the proper business licenses and permits is just as important as incorporating your business. Do not leave this process out of your business plan. We hope that this eases your business license research process! If you have any questions, feel free to post below or contact one of our Incorporation Specialists by dialling 800.421.2661

For more information and answers to your 50 most common incorporation questions read our FREE eBook