A Delaware C-Corporation is the structure venture capitalists expect for any startup planning to raise priced equity. It supports multiple share classes, ESOPs, preferred-stock instruments, and the legal framework for complex cap tables.
Our C-Corp formation package covers everything: state filing of Articles of Incorporation, EIN application, registered agent, founders’ stock issuance, bylaws, and the 83(b) election filing โ the same flow you’d get from Stripe Atlas, with hands-on support.
Key benefits
- VC-fundable. C-Corp Delaware is the only structure most US VCs and YC will fund.
- Multiple share classes. Common, preferred, ESOP โ needed for any priced round.
- Easy stock options. Issue ISOs and NSOs to employees and advisors with proper 409A valuations.
- Stable corporate law. Delaware Court of Chancery is the gold standard for resolving corporate disputes.
- Capital flexibility. Easy to issue convertible notes, SAFEs, preferred shares โ the standard fundraising instruments.
- 83(b) election protection. We file the 83(b) within 30 days of stock issuance to lock in capital-gains treatment.
Documents required
- Founder names, addresses and ownership splits
- Proposed company name (we check availability)
- Total authorised shares and par value
- Registered agent (we provide)
- Founders' tax IDs (SSN / ITIN / passport)
How the process works
- State filing. Articles of Incorporation filed with the Delaware Secretary of State.
- EIN. Form SS-4 filed with IRS for the new company's tax ID.
- Bylaws & resolutions. Drafting bylaws, initial board resolutions, and director consents.
- Founders' stock issuance. Issue founders' shares with vesting and stock-purchase agreements.
- 83(b) election. Filed within 30 days of stock issuance with USPS-tracked mailing.
- Document handover. Digital data-room with all formation documents organized for diligence.
Who is this for?
- Startups planning to raise priced equity (Seed / Series A and beyond)
- YC-bound or accelerator-bound companies
- Founders who want the most-funded structure
- Foreign founders building a 'flip' to a US parent