Register a Company in Mississippi
Corporate Name
The corporation’s name must contain the word "Corporation," "Incorporated," "Company," "Limited" or an abbreviation thereof. For banking corporations, the words "Bank," "Banking" or "Bankers" may be used. The word "Trust" cannot be used. The name may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a purpose other than the one permitted by the Articles of Incorporation. The name cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to that of a domestic or foreign-qualified corporation.Director information
The following are Mississippi’s requirements for directors of corporations:
- Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
- Residence requirements. Mississippi does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. Directors must be at least 18 years old.
- Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Requirements for the Articles of Incorporation
The document required to form a corporation in Mississippi is called the Articles of Incorporation. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Mississippi's requirements include:
- 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 does not affect initial filing fees.
- Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in Mississippi. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.
Professional services businesses
Mississippi allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional corporation (PC).
After forming a corporation, you must undertake certain steps on an ongoing basis to keep your business in compliance. These steps are also important in preserving the limited liability a corporation provides its owners. This guide outlines the ongoing requirements for Mississippi corporations.
Corporate records
Mississippi corporations must keep the following items with their corporate records at the principal office:
- The Articles of Incorporation and any amendments
- Bylaws
- Minutes of director and shareholder meetings
- A list of names and business addresses of current directors and officers
- Most recent annual report
- Any agreements between shareholders
Corporate taxes and fees
The following are taxation requirements and ongoing fees for Mississippi corporations:
- Annual report and franchise tax. Mississippi requires corporations to file an annual report between January 1 and April 15 each year. The filing fee is $22 with a $1.25 electronic filing fee. Mississippi also has an Annual Corporate Income and Franchise Tax Report, which is due on or before the 15th day of the third month following the close of the accounting year. The amount due is calculated based on the value of the capital employed in Mississippi, with a minimum tax of $25.
- Taxes. For complete details on state taxes for Mississippi corporations, visit the State of Mississippi .
- Federal tax identification number (EIN). An EIN is required for corporations that will have employees. Additionally, most banks require an EIN in order to open a business bank account.
- State tax identification number. Mississippi does not require a state tax identification number.
Business licenses
Business licenses and/or permits are required for most businesses.
S corporation election
Mississippi recognizes the federal S corporation election and does not require a state-level S corporation election.
Additional Mississippi information
View the following additional resources has for forming and maintaining companies in Mississippi: