Registration Requirements

• Which Type of Organization Is Right For You? [www.sos.state.ia.us/business/handbookintro.html] — There are eight main types of business organizations one may use to operate a business in Iowa. To help you sort through the process of deciding which business organization is right for you, the Iowa Secretary of State has assembled a Guide to Iowa's Most Commonly Used Business Organizations.
• Search Iowa Corporations [www.sos.state.ia.us/search/corp/corp_search.asp] — To determine availability of corporate names, search the corporate database or contact the Secretary of State Office at 515.281.5204.
• Corporation Requirements [www.sos.state.ia.us/business/form.html] — Access forms necessary to register with the Iowa Secretary of State. A business corporation is the most complex form of business organization. A for profit corporation is an association of individuals created by law with powers and liabilities independent of its stockholders.
• Iowa Secretary of State's Online Nonprofit Center [www.sos.state.ia.us/business/nonprofits/] — The Nonprofit Center is a resource of the Business Services Division of the Secretary of State's Office that is responsible for the registration of all Iowa nonprofit corporations.
• Sole Proprietorship [www.sos.state.ia.us/business/sole.html] — Points to consider when becoming a Sole Proprietor. Make sure to register with your local Iowa County Recorder Office [www.iowacounties.org].
• Targeted Small Business (TSB) Certification — The TSB Certification Program certifies businesses owned, operated and actively managed by women, minority group members or persons with disabilities. Certified TSBs are eligible to apply for low-interest loans and equity grants through the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED).