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Chapter 2 – Organizational Structure / Registration  

DETERMINATION OF BUSINESS STRUCTURE

Your attorney or certified public accountant may best determine the most beneficial structure for your particular business. Outlined below are some of the most common forms of business structures.**

• A Sole Proprietorship is the simplest and most common form of business organization. The creation of a business as a sole proprietorship requires no formal Arizona filing. Profits and losses are reported on a separate schedule within your personal tax return. The sole proprietor of the business may be held personally liable for the debts and obligations of the business.
• A General Partnership is an association of two or more people joined together to carry on trade or business for profit and is usually formalized through preparation of a written agreement. It is not required to file your agreement with the state.
• The Limited Partnership (LP) has become an increasingly popular choice for business owners, especially those involved in real estate or other investment ventures. LPs can limit the liability and the involvement of certain partners.
• A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is a business owned by two or more people and is a relatively new business structure in Arizona. Professional advice concerning this type of business should be obtained from an Arizona attorney.
• A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a flexible form of enterprise that blends elements of the partnership and corporation structures. LLC owners have limited personal liability and the benefit of pass-through taxation.
• A Foreign Corporation is a business organized under the laws of another state or country and must be registered to conduct business in Arizona.
• A C Corporation is the most complex form of business structure. It is formed by law as a separate entity, distinct from the owners of the business, and has its own rights and responsibilities.

** It is always best to seek legal advice prior to selecting your organization type

REGISTRATION OF BUSINESS

The type of business structure you choose will determine where and how you must register your company.

Arizona Corporation Commission (AZCC) – Register a C-Corp, S-Corp, Foreign Corp, or Limited Liability Company (LLC). The AZCC approves filings for Articles of Incorporation and Articles of Organization in Arizona.

1300 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 542-3026, (800) 345-5819
answers@azcc.gov

Arizona Secretary of State Trademark & Trade Name Office – Register your business trade name and/or trademark in Arizona.

1700 W. Washington St., 7th Floor
Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 542-6187
(800) 458-5842

U.S. Patents, Trademarks, & Copyrights (Federal)  /  Trademark Basics – Register your patents, trademarks, and copyrights at the federal level. Trademark applications are very precise and it is recommended that an attorney is consulted.

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
(571) 272-1000
(800) 786-9199
usptoinfo@uspto.gov