Members' Resolution Document
What a Members' Resolution Document Is and When it’s Used
Why a Clear Resolution Document Matters
A properly drafted Members' Resolution creates a clear, contemporaneous record of who authorized an action and under what authority, reducing third-party friction and legal uncertainty.
Who Typically Prepares and Uses This Resolution
The Members' Resolution is prepared by corporate officers, company counsel, or an authorized member and shared with signatories and third parties.
- Company managers and officers who need to document member approvals for transactions or delegations.
- Banks, lenders, and title companies that require proof of authorized signers or approvals.
- In-house counsel or external attorneys preparing corporate records and supporting documentation.
Keep an executed copy in the company minute book and provide certified copies to banks or counterparties as requested.
Typical Roles That Sign and Approve
LLC Member
Members who vote to authorize corporate actions and who may be required to sign the resolution or certify its passage for third parties.
Officer / Manager
An officer or manager designated to implement the resolution (open accounts, sign closing documents) and to provide certified copies to external parties.
Consequences of an Incorrect or Incomplete Resolution
Common Preparation Errors to Avoid
- Using an informal note instead of a signed resolution, which can lead banks to reject the document.
- Failing to match the legal entity name and EIN exactly to public records or bank accounts, causing processing delays.
- Authorizing vague actions like 'authorize officers' without specifying the exact authority or transaction limits.
- Skipping a dated signature block or not recording the member vote, which undermines the resolution’s evidentiary value.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare and Execute a Members' Resolution
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01Draft resolution: Write a clear title, recitals, and the specific authority granted.
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02Record the vote: Document the members’ vote outcome and any quorum details.
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03Sign and date: Secure required signatures and dates from members or officers.
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04Store certified copy: Place an executed copy in the minute book and share as needed.
Where to Send or File an Executed Resolution
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Company minute book: Store original executed copy internally.
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Bank or lender: Provide certified or notarized copies on request.
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Title/escrow: Include resolution when closing property transactions.
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Third-party counterparty: Attach as evidence of authority to sign agreements.
Digital Workflow Settings for Online Completion
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer order | Specify member or officer signing sequence |
| Authentication | Email link, SMS code, or stronger KBA |
| Notarization | Select RON or in-person as required |
| Storage | PDF with audit trail and secure retention |
Technical Considerations for eSigning and Distribution
Choose authentication and storage options that meet legal and third-party requirements when sending the resolution electronically.
- Authentication: Email, SMS, or KBA
- Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Microsoft 365
- Formats: PDF, DOCX supported
Timelines and Practical Deadlines to Watch
Effective date:
Date stated in resolution controls when authority begins
Bank acceptance:
Banks may require certified copies before account opening
Amendments:
If accompanying an amendment, follow state filing timelines
Retention start:
Retention begins on execution date
Notarial records:
RON audio/video retention may be required
Key Processing Milestones After Approval
Draft prepared
Resolution text and recitals completed for review
Member vote
Members approve resolution per governing documents
Execution
Required signatures and notarization are obtained
Distribution
Certified copies delivered and original filed
How a Members' Resolution Differs from Related Documents
| Criteria | Members' Resolution | Operating Agreement |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | authorize action | governing rules |
| Formality | single-event record | governing document |
| Third-party use | high (banks, lenders) | low |
| Amendment required | sometimes | yes for structural change |
eSignature Vendor Pricing Comparison for Executing Resolutions
| 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 free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Free trial available | Free trial available |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes (BAA) | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Practical Tips for Accurate and Efficient Completion
Real-World Examples of How Resolutions Are Used
Opening a Bank Account
A two-member LLC authorized the manager to open a business checking account.
- Bank requested a certified resolution and identification.
- The members delivered a notarized copy and a certified minute, allowing the bank to add authorized signers and activate online banking.
Authorizing Real Estate Sale
Members approved the sale of a commercial parcel by resolution.
- Title company required proof of authority.
- The company provided the executed resolution and certified meeting minutes, enabling closing without requiring each member’s in-person appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Members' Resolutions
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Can a resolution be e-signed?
Yes. Under the federal ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. §7001) and most states adopting UETA, electronic signatures are legally valid if intent, consent, attribution, and retention requirements are met.
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Do banks accept e-signed resolutions?
Many banks accept e-signed resolutions, but policies vary. Confirm the bank’s acceptance rules and whether they require notarized or certified copies before relying on an e-signed version.
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Is notarization required?
Not normally required by statute for a standalone resolution, but third parties commonly request notarization; where needed, obtain an in-person acknowledgement or an accepted RON session.
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What if a member’s name differs?
Mismatched or informal names can invalidate acceptance. Use the member’s full legal name as shown on government-issued ID and formation records to avoid verification failures.
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How do I amend a resolution?
Adopt a new resolution stating the amendment, record the member vote, and distribute certified copies. If the change requires an amendment to formation documents, file with the state as required.
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How long should I keep executed copies?
Retain executed resolutions for the life of the company action plus several years; follow IRS and industry standards such as IRC §6501(a) (3 years) and HIPAA rules where applicable.