Corporate Bylaws
The basic rules for how a corporation is run: its directors, officers, meetings, and shares.
Good for: Owners of a new small corporation that need written rules for how the company will operate.
Before you sign
- Your corporation must first be formed by filing with your state. Bylaws do not form the company.
- Bylaws must follow your state's corporation law and your articles of incorporation. If they disagree, the law and the articles win.
- Keep the signed bylaws in your minute book. Banks and investors often ask for them.
- Hold meetings and write down minutes, as the bylaws say.
What this is not
These are standard forms for you to fill in, plus plain-language information. This is not legal advice and this site is not a law firm. We do not file anything for you or check your answers. Rules differ from state to state, so read the finished form before you sign it.