An article of incorporation is a legal document that establishes the structure and purpose of a corporation. It is submitted to a regulatory authority. Sometimes it is also called a “Certificate of Incorporation.” Articles of incorporation generally include information about the name of the incorporator (a person who is organizing the corporation), the number of shares a corporation is authorized to issue, the names of its board of directors and address of its registered office. In some cases the corporation may have to specify the name of a registered agent. Articles of incorporation take different forms depending on the activities of a corporation, and the local rules and regulations. It gives a broad idea about the activities and functions of an organization, but one cannot get detailed information about the company's operations in this document. This information is provided by company's by-laws.

Articles of incorporation can also be treated as a set of primary rule that help in managing a business. If one wishes to incorporate a business, one must be ready with Articles of Incorporation. Without filing this document, the process of incorporation cannot be completed. There are business law firms as well as individual experts who can help an incorporator in preparing Articles of Association.

Though it is not mandatory to hire an attorney to prepare this document, it is advisable. One must not furnish any incorrect information in Articles of Incorporation, as it could have serious legal consequences. There are certain standard formats easily available on Internet and in certain books. There are several "self-help" books and manuals which can help one to prepare this document on one's own. You can then get it checked from an attorney by paying flat fees.