Articles of Incorporation (Profit Corporation) are a set of legally-binding documents that are filed with a state government to form a corporation. In most states, Articles of Incorporation are the only document required to create a corporation. The document outlines the purpose and structure of the corporation, including the name, number of shares, and type of business the company will conduct. It also sets forth the rights and responsibilities of shareholders and directors, and the rules governing the issuance of stock and the management of the company. The primary types of Articles of Incorporation (Profit Corporation) are Standard, Close, and Professional. Standard Articles of Incorporation are the most common and provide the basic rules and regulations for the company. Close Articles of Incorporation provide more control over the management of the company and are used for private companies. Professional Articles of Incorporation are used for companies with a professional purpose, such as a doctor's office or law firm. In addition to the Articles of Incorporation, other documents may also be required to form a corporation, such as a Certificate of Incorporation, Bylaws, and Minutes of Meetings.