What constitutes the Articles of Incorporation?

The Articles of Incorporation is the essential document that establishes a corporation's existence and outlines its fundamental details. This document typically includes critical information such as the corporation's name, the purpose for which it is formed, the number and types of shares of stock that can be issued, the duration of the corporation, and the names and addresses of the incorporators.

This establishes a legal foundation for the corporation, making it recognized as a separate legal entity from its owners. It serves as an official declaration of the corporation's intent and organizational structure, allowing it to operate within the framework of corporate law.

Other options provided do not describe the Articles of Incorporation accurately. Minutes from a board meeting refer to the records of discussions and decisions made by directors, while applications for business permits relate to regulatory compliance, and stockholder agreements outline the rights and responsibilities among shareholders. None of these documents fulfill the role or purpose of the Articles of Incorporation as a foundational legal document for the formation of a corporation.