What Is a Corporate or Company Seal?

A corporate seal (also known as a company seal) is a special stamp customized to your company. It can be used to emboss particular documents with details about your company. Although company seals are not typically required in most jurisdictions, they can add a level of formality to important company documents.

What Information Is Included on a Corporate Seal?

What Is a Corporate Seal Used For?

A corporate seal can be used to mark documents as “official.” Company seals can be used on documents like share certificates, meeting minutes, various contracts, deeds and similar items. A corporate seal is typically recognized by the board of directors as a way to authorize documents on behalf of a corporation.

What Types of Business Entities Can Have a Company Seal?

Limited liability companies (LLCs), S Corporations and C Corporations can have a company seal.

Can I Use a Corporate Seal to Issue Company Stock or LLC Membership Certificates?

Yes, you can stamp stock certificates (C Corporations, S Corporations) or membership certificates (LLCs) with a company seal. Such certificates may also need to be signed by the president of the company. Note that in many cases, paper certificates are not needed to prove ownership of stock, as there are often digital records that ownership has been granted.

What Types of Corporate Seals Were Available Historically?

Traditionally, a company seal would have been used with sealing wax. The wax would be heated up and poured onto the document, and then a stamp would be used to leave an impression in the wax. Rubber stamps have also been used as corporate seals over the years. Today, many corporate seals work by using an embossing device to press the company details into the paper.

Is There a Difference Between Sealed and Unsealed Documents for a Corporation?

In most cases, corporations do not need to officially “seal” documents, and there’s no practical difference between a sealed document and an unsealed one that is properly authorized by an officer of the company. Note that some types of documents or jurisdictions may still require a seal, so speak with a corporate attorney with expertise in business matters in your state.

Am I Legally Required to Have a Company Seal?

In most cases, no. There may be some jurisdictions or states where you’re required to make specific documents with a seal, but in most cases, the signature of a controlling officer of the company will provide proper authorization. Some states do still recognize the legal power of a corporate seal. If you’re not sure, speak with a corporate attorney.

Why Should I Get a Corporate Seal?

Although the use of a company seal isn’t legally required in most cases, embossing an official document can add authenticity and authority. In some cases, a corporate seal may still be required; for example, if your business is a party to a deed, lease or another real estate document. Some banks will also require a corporate seal.

Where Do I Get a Corporate Seal?

Incfile provides a corporate seal as part of your business formation kit.

Rules and laws governing corporate seals and signatory power can vary between states. We recommend consulting with a professional business attorney regarding your unique circumstances.