There is a one-time charge for this service. After the county recorder has filed the articles of incorporation, the corporation receives a certificate of incorporation from the secretary of state. The corporation can start doing business, right after the certificate of incorporation is issued by the secretary of state. Articles of incorporation can be written by members of the corporation or a lawyer. However, using a lawyer or accountant can sometimes help you avoid many problems and pitfalls of establishing a legal corporation in Maine.
Corporations are a more costly and complicated form of business organization than partnerships.
Articles of incorporation must also be filed in counties where offices are located or real estate is held. Each year, an annual report must be filed with the state. There is a small charge for filing, but the fee goes up as capital assets of the corporation increase. Many sole proprietors feel they should incorporate to limit their business liability. This certainly is an advantage, but unless the assets of the business are substantial, the officer-shareholder may still have to sign for the business.