With respect to corporate name, numerous states stipulate that a proposed name must not be "deceptively similar" to that of any other business entity authorized to operate within the state. The Secretary of State oversees a registry of corporate names, which is accessible online. Given that the allocation of corporate names operates on a first-come, first-served principle, many states allow for the reservation of a desired corporate name for a specified duration, typically for a nominal fee.

A corporation is permitted to conduct business under an assumed name, provided that it does not partake in unfair competition by adopting a name that is likely to cause confusion with that of another entity. Numerous states have enacted "assumed name statutes," which allow a business to operate under a name that differs from its registered or "official" name. Typically, these statutes mandate that the business submit a statement revealing the true identity of the individuals or entities responsible for the operation of the business. Consequently, ABC Corp. may operate as XYZ Corp. if it adheres to the requirements set forth in the relevant assumed name statute.

In relation to stock, numerous states mandate that, in addition to the declaration of authorized stock, details concerning various classes of stock must be provided, including the characteristic of each class and the number of shares of each.

Certain states mandate the inclusion of a statement regarding the duration of a corporation. In these jurisdictions, this typically indicates that the corporation is intended to have perpetual existence. A notable benefit of the corporate structure is its continuity; a corporation remains in existence until it is formally dissolved or merged with another entity. The Model Business Corporation Act (MBCA) assumes perpetual existence and, consequently, does not necessitate a statement of duration. However, the articles of incorporation may specify a defined term of years or an alternative, shorter duration.

Currently, in most states, corporate articles may include a broad statement of purpose, such as "this corporation may engage in all lawful business." The Model Business Corporation Act (MBCA) does not mandate a statement of purpose, as it operates under the assumption that corporations are permitted to engage in all lawful business activities. However, if the parties involved wish to restrict the corporation's activities to specific endeavors, they have the option to articulate such limitations within the articles. Conversely, a few states do not permit a general statement of purpose. For instance, in Arizona, the articles must contain "a brief statement of the character of the business that the corporation initially intends to actually conduct in this state.”