What are corporate minutes?
Corporate minutes are the official record of the actions taken and decisions made during a corporation's board of directors or shareholder meeting. They serve as a historical record of the corporation's activities and can be used to:
- Document key decisions: Minutes provide a clear and concise record of the topics discussed, motions voted on, and decisions made during a meeting.
- Ensure compliance with legal requirements: Many states and regulatory agencies require corporations to keep accurate records of their meetings.
- Protect the corporation from legal disputes: In the event of a legal dispute, minutes can be used to demonstrate that the corporation acted properly and followed its own rules and regulations.
- Provide historical context: Minutes can be valuable for future reference, helping directors and shareholders understand the corporation's past decisions and actions.
Corporate minutes can be prepared in different formats, but they should always be clear, concise, and accurate. They should also be signed by the secretary of the corporation and kept in a safe location.