Glossary of Corporate Terms

If you're getting ready to launch a new business, chances are you know your product or service and your market like the back of your hand. But the mechanics of forming a business entity-knowing the terminology-may be more difficult to understand.

To help you sort through the terminology, Harvard Business Services, Inc. has included a comprehensive glossary to help guide you. To use the glossary, match the first letter of the term you want to look up with the alphabet list below, and click on that letter.

Of course, our team of business formation professionals is standing by to help you make informed decisions if you need more information.

A B C D E F G H I L M N O P Q R S T U V Z

Electronic Signature

A mark, symbol, notation or signature in electronic form that is utilized to indicate one’s intent to be bound by that document.

Electronic Transmission

Any form of communication not in paper form that creates a record that can be retained, retrieved and reviewed by the recipient. Delaware allows voting by and notice to shareholders to be provided via electronic transmission.

Employer Identification Number (EIN)

The tax identification number provided by the Federal Government to each entity that applies. Same as “Federal Tax Identification Number.” More information.

Equity

An ownership interest in a corporation or LLC, evidenced by stock or membership certificates.

Estate Planning

The process of creating, while still alive, a mechanism for preserving assets for distribution to others upon one’s death. This mechanism also usually intends to avoid or reduce any tax burden normally imposed by such a transfer.