Articles of Incorporation in West Virginia — Free PDF & Word (2026 Updated)
Formally create a corporation with the state
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ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION State of West Virginia The undersigned incorporator(s) hereby adopt the following Articles of Incorporation under the laws of West Virginia: ARTICLE I — NAME The name of the corporation is: [CORPORATION NAME], Inc. ARTICLE II — PURPOSE The purpose of this corporation is to engage in any lawful business permitted under West Virginia law. ARTICLE III — REGISTERED AGENT Registered Agent: [AGENT NAME] Registered Office: [ADDRESS], WV [ZIP] ARTICLE IV — AUTHORIZED SHARES The corporation is authorized to issue [NUMBER] shares of [ ] Common [ ] Preferred stock with a par value of $[AMOUNT] per share. ARTICLE V — INCORPORATOR(S) Name: [INCORPORATOR NAME] Address: [ADDRESS], WV [ZIP] ARTICLE VI — DIRECTORS Initial Board of Directors: 1. [DIRECTOR NAME] — [ADDRESS] 2. [DIRECTOR NAME] — [ADDRESS] 3. [DIRECTOR NAME] — [ADDRESS] ARTICLE VII — DURATION The corporation shall have perpetual existence. Filed in accordance with West Virginia Business Corporation Act (WV Statutes). INCORPORATOR SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
FAQ: Articles of Incorporation in West Virginia
Is a Articles of Incorporation required in West Virginia?
Yes, in West Virginia, a Articles of Incorporation is required for most transactions of this type. Under West Virginia State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by 2 individuals. Failure to use a proper Articles of Incorporation may result in legal complications.
Does a Articles of Incorporation need to be notarized in West Virginia?
Notarization requirements in West Virginia (WV) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $5. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Articles of Incorporation in West Virginia?
West Virginia has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Articles of Incorporation, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a West Virginia tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Where to File Your Articles of Incorporation in West Virginia
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Articles of Incorporation.
West Virginia County Clerk
West Virginia Capital
Main Government Building, West Virginia
District County Clerk
West Virginia Metro Area
County Courthouse, WV
Articles of Incorporation Costs in West Virginia
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | West Virginia standard rate: $5 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in West Virginia |
| Sales Tax | 6% | West Virginia base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 2 witnesses | West Virginia requires multiple witnesses |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Sarah Mitchell, J.D.
Legal Document Specialist
Licensed Attorney, 15+ years experience
Specializes in contract law and legal document preparation
This Articles of Incorporation template for West Virginia has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
West Virginia Articles of Incorporation Legal Guide
Under West Virginia jurisdiction, this form meets all statutory requirements and provides comprehensive legal protection for your transaction.
Under West Virginia State Code, residents of West Virginia must ensure this Articles of Incorporation complies with all state requirements. The current sales tax rate is 6%, and notarization costs between $5. Two witnesses are mandatory in WV.
Using this template ensures you're protected under West Virginia law while saving time and money on legal fees.
How to Complete This Form
Start by gathering all necessary information: party names, addresses, and relevant details specific to your transaction. West Virginia law under WV requires accuracy in every field. Once completed, have all parties review the document before signing. Depending on the transaction type, West Virginia may require notarization or witness signatures.
How West Virginia Courts View This Document
West Virginia courts apply WV statutory standards when evaluating a Articles of Incorporation. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
West Virginia attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with WV law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when West Virginia law changes
West Virginia Statutory Requirements
The WV legislature has established specific guidelines for articles of incorporation documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
West Virginia courts apply WV statutory standards when evaluating a Articles of Incorporation. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
West Virginia attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with WV law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when West Virginia law changes
West Virginia Statutory Requirements
The WV legislature has established specific guidelines for articles of incorporation documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
The WV legislature has established specific guidelines for articles of incorporation documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
West Virginia Articles of Incorporation Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Articles of Incorporation is legally valid in West Virginia.
West Virginia Notarization
West Virginia requires 2 witnesses and notarization may be mandatory. Fees typically range from $5.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In West Virginia, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. West Virginia law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
West Virginia Filing Deadlines
Check West Virginia deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Other Forms in West Virginia
Articles of Incorporation in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Articles of Incorporation
- State
- West Virginia (WV)
- Category
- Business
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $5
West Virginia Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in West Virginia may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.