Entity identification
Full legal name, DBA if applicable, and existing registration numbers so state agencies and banks can match records without ambiguity.
A precise selection document reduces ambiguity about entity status, tax treatment, and signer authority. It streamlines state filings and IRS notices, helps prevent mismatches on bank and tax accounts, and creates a defensible record if questions arise during audits or legal review.
Coordination among these groups ensures the selection is recorded correctly, filed with the proper agencies, and reflected across banking, payroll, and contract systems.
Full legal name, DBA if applicable, and existing registration numbers so state agencies and banks can match records without ambiguity.
Clear statement of the selected business form and any subordinate elections, such as tax classification or manager-managed vs member-managed governance.
The precise start date for the selection and any sunset or review dates required for governance or tax reasons.
Names, titles, signatures, and dates for authorized signers; include printed names and capacity (e.g., 'Member', 'Director').
Include referenced documents such as Form 2553, operating agreement excerpts, subscription agreements, or state cover sheets for easy retrieval.
Record who prepared and approved the document, version dates, and a changelog to support future audits.
| Setting Name | Recommended value |
|---|---|
| Signer identity | Email + SMS code or stronger MFA for key signers |
| Field validation | Require MM/DD/YYYY for dates and numeric format for EIN |
| Sequential signing | Enable ordered signing when approvals must follow a chain |
| Audit capture | Retain IP, timestamp, and authentication records for each signer |
Ensure chosen methods align with regulatory requirements for identity verification, data retention, and record reproduction to meet ESIGN and UETA standards.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |