FAQs

What is Legal Trunk?

Legal Trunk is an all-in-one legal tech platform for entrepreneurs and businesses to smoothly and quickly launch, scale and manage their enterprises.

Why use Legal Trunk?

Dealing with many of the legal and compliance issues that arise while doing business is not for the faint-hearted. Legal Trunk simplifies these issues and provides you with an all-in-one platform to manage your venture's legal and compliance needs.

How do I sign up for Legal Trunk?

To sign up, simply click on the "Create Account" button. Follow the prompts and start using our services.

What services are included in your subscription?

When you purchase a subscription with Legal Trunk, it includes full access to our repository of compliance and legal documents, discounts on registrations in different countries, a free legal consultation per quarter, and free compliance support for your entity.

What is the process for getting started with Legal Trunk?

To get started, create an account, send us an email or schedule a consultation with us. We will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Do I need to be a resident of the USA to register a US company?

No. You do not need to be a resident of the specific country where you intend to register your venture. Legal Trunk allows individuals to form a business in different countries regardless of their location.

How can I contact you if I have questions or need help?

If you have any inquiries or require our assistance, you can contact us via email at [email protected] and one of our advisors will respond as quickly as possible.

Are my trade secrets safe with LegalTrunk?

Absolutely! At Legal Trunk, we take our responsibility of protecting your sensitive data very seriously and never compromise on quality. We utilize advanced data encryption and data privacy guidelines ensuring the highest levels of data security.

Can Legal Trunk help with trademark registration?

Yes. Legal Trunk offers intellectual property protection services, including trademark and patent registration in different countries such as the United States and Nigeria.

What happens if my company formation application is rejected?

If your application for company formation is rejected, we will work with you to identify the reasons for the rejection and assist you in making the necessary adjustments before submitting your application.

Can I customize the legal documents provided by Legal Trunk?

Yes​. You can customize the legal documents provided by Legal Trunk. The templates are designed to be editable​.

What types of companies can I register with Legal Trunk?

You can register a variety of business structures with Legal Trunk, including limited liability companies, corporations, partnerships and nonprofits.

Our team can help you choose the right structure based on your goals and ensure a smooth registration process.

How long does the company registration process take?

The timeline depends on the jurisdiction of registration. However, we will keep you updated with every step to make the process as quick and seamless as possible.

How do I pay for Legal Trunk's services?

Legal Trunk accepts a range of payment methods, including credit cards and bank transfers in Naira and USD. 

General Company Registrations

What do I need to register my company?

Some information that may be good to have at hand before you start the registration process includes:

• Some possible name choices for your company

• The information of the directors/ members of your company,

• The type of company you wish to register: LLC or C corp (you can visit our blog for information on the different types of companies you can register),

• The stock/share information for your company, if applicable

How long will it take for the registration to be completed?

The timeline for registration depends on the jurisdiction in which you wish to register your company. See our specialized FAQs for more information.

Will the information I share be confidential?

We treat all client information shared with us with the utmost confidentiality.

Can I open a bank account after registering my company?

Yes, you can! The requirements may differ across jurisdictions, but generally, you can open a bank account after you register your company and obtain a business Tax Identification Number.

1. What information do I need to register my company in the US?

Some information that may be good to have at hand before you start the registration process includes:

• At least two to three possible name choices for your company

• The information of the directors/ members of your company,

• The type of company to register: LLC or C corp (we made a post talking about this here),

• The stock information for your company, if applicable.

2. Where can I start?

To register your company in the US, get started here.

3. How long will it take for the registration to be completed?

Most registration takes 3-5 working days to be completed, except there are unforeseen delays. You can also opt for the express service which takes 1-3 business days.

4. How much does it cost?

Our US Company Registration costs $499

5. What do I get when I register my company?

When you register your company with Legal Trunk, you get free registered agent service for one year, digital copies of your company registration document and company by-laws/ articles, a free EIN application, a referral to open a US bank account and lots of other perks to get your business on its feet and running.

6. Will the information I share be confidential?

We treat all client information shared with us with the utmost confidentiality.

7. Can I open a bank account after registering my company?

Yes, you can! However, you will need to register for and receive your Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS first. Most US banks require the EIN before you can open a corporate bank account for your business.

8. What is the tax implication of registering a US company?

The tax obligations differ depending on the State in which your business is registered. Legal Trunk can give detailed information on any state you are interested in.

9. What is EIN?

EIN is the Federal Employer Identification Number provided by the IRS to business entities. This number helps identify your business and is also used for tax compliance purposes. This number is required to open a bank account, hire employees in the US and file your annual corporate income tax returns.

10. How do I get my EIN?

After registering your company in your state of choice, Legal Trunk will help you handle the EIN application for free. You will simply fill out and sign a form that will be shared with you while we handle the rest!

11. How long will it take for me to get the EIN?

If you have a US SSN or ITIN, this process can take less than a week. For International applicants, this may take between four and six weeks.

12. What are the key distinctions between incorporating a C Corporation in Wyoming versus Delaware?

Unlike the state of Delaware, the state of Wyoming does not charge income tax on profits at a state level.

1. What do I need to do to register my company in Nigeria?

Some information that may be good to have at hand before you start the registration process includes:

• At least two to three possible name choices for your company

• The objects or purpose for which the company is being formed.

• Information of the directors/ members of your company,

• Deciding the type of company to register: company or business name (we made a post talking about this here),

• The number of shares for each member of your proposed company

• A government-issued means of identification.

2. Where can I start?

To register your company in Nigeria, fill out the form here.

3. How long will it take for the registration to be completed?

Registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission takes three to four weeks to be completed. However, you may opt for the expedited service which takes 1 to 3 business days.

4. How much will it cost?

We charge N120,000 only for Nigerian company registration. We will give you digital copies of your company registration documents, company by-laws/ articles, and lots of other perks to get your business on its feet and running.

5. Will the information I share be confidential?

We treat all client information shared with us with the utmost confidentiality.

6. Why should I provide an alternative company name?

Your first choice might be unavailable. It is crucial to provide an alternative.

7. Can I open a bank account after registering my company?

We help you register your company and you may choose to open a bank account with any financial institution of your choice. However, we are working to partner with financial institutions to make this easier for you.

8. What is TIN?

TIN is the Tax Identification Number issued by the FIRS to business entities. This number helps identify your business and is also used for tax compliance purposes. This number is required to open a corporate bank account and file your annual corporate income tax returns.

9. How do I get my TIN?

Due to the Ease of Doing Business Initiative, once you register your company in Nigeria, your TIN will be provided on your Certificate of Incorporation.

10. How long will it take for me to get the TIN?

Getting your TIN requires no additional time as it is issued alongside your company registration document. If you are registering a business name, you will need to apply to the FIRS directly.

General Intellectual Property

What types of intellectual property can Legal Trunk help me protect?

We offer support for trademarks, patents, and copyright registrations. From brand names to product inventions, we guide you through the filing process to safeguard your intellectual property.

What is a trademark?

A trademark is a sign capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one enterprise from other enterprises. A business entity’s trademark receives protection in terms of the law if it is registered.

What can I trademark?

You may choose to register letters, shapes, designs, drawings, symbols, colours, sounds, fragrances, or even three-dimensional features such as the shape and packaging of goods.

How long do trademarks last?

Trademarks are valid for 7-10 years from the filing date and are renewable depending on the jurisdiction.

What information is required for trademark registration?

You will need the details of the applicant, the trademark information such as the class and types of marks to be protected, the full range of goods and services covered or to be covered by the trademark, and formal authorisation for us to act on your behalf as your agent.

What does the application process entail?

The first step is the availability search to ensure that the trademark to be registered does not already exist. If nothing similar is found we will then proceed to apply for registration, request for a trademark certificate and get the certificate issued.

Trademark in Nigeria

How long will my trademark last?

Trademarks in Nigeria are valid for 7 years from the filing date and are renewable for successive periods of 14 years.

What information is required for trademark registration?

You will need the details of the applicant, the trademark information such as the class and types of marks to be protected, the full range of goods and services covered or to be covered by the trademark, and formal authorisation for us to act on your behalf as your agent.

What does the application process entail?

The first step is the availability search to ensure that the trademark to be registered does not already exist. If nothing similar is found we will then proceed to apply for registration, request for a trademark certificate and get the certificate issued.

How long will the process take?

From the initial availability search to when the trademark certificate is issued, the process is usually completed within six months where there are no delays.

How much will it cost?

We charge ₦170,000 per mark and class. This covers statutory payments to be made and our professional fees.

Will the information I share be confidential?

We treat all client information shared with us with the utmost confidentiality.

Trademark in the US

Can I register a trademark in the US at any time?

A trademark cannot be registered in the US unless the company is already operational in the US, intends to operate in the US immediately or has US customers.

What can I trademark?

You may choose to register letters, shapes, designs, drawings, symbols, colours, sounds, fragrances, or even three-dimensional features such as the shape and packaging of goods. You can trademark your brand name or logo used on goods and services.

Can I enforce my trademark?

In the US, the US Patents and Trademarks Office only registers trademarks. It is up to you to enforce your mark and stop infringement.

How long will my trademark last?

Trademarks in the US are valid for 10 years before they will need to be renewed.

What information is required for trademark registration?

You will need the details of the applicant, the trademark information such as the class and types of marks to be protected, the full range of goods and services covered or to be covered by the trademark, and formal authorisation to act on your behalf as an agent.

What does the application process entail?

The first step is the availability search to ensure that the trademark to be registered does not already exist. If nothing similar is found we will then proceed to apply for registration, request for a trademark certificate and get the certificate issued.

How long will the process take?

From the initial availability search to when the trademark certificate is issued, the process is usually completed within six months where there are no delays.

How much will it cost?

We charge $1,500 per mark and class. This covers statutory payments to be made and our professional fees.

Will the information I share be confidential?

We treat all client information shared with us with the utmost confidentiality.

Document Notarization in the US

What is document notarization?

This is where a notary public acts as a government witness to certify the authenticity of a signature on a legal document. This is important because, in most instances, a document may only be recognized internationally if it has been certified or authenticated by a Notary Public.

What kind of documents can I notarize?

Usually, legal documents dealing with serious matters or with substantial monetary value can be notarized. Examples include your company’s certificate of incorporation.

Can I have more than one signer for my document?

Yes, if this is what you require, both signers will have to be in the same physical location to sign the document in the presence of the notary.

How does the process work?

If you would like to notarize your document with us, you can simply reach out to us via email providing information on the document you want to notarize.

What do I need to notarize my document?

If you are the person signing the document, you will need an official means of identification. The individual signing must do so out of their own free will and must be of sound mind at the time of signing.

The document to be notarized must also be unsigned as it will be signed in the presence of the Notary Public.

How much will it cost?

We charge $150 per stamp for this service.

Regulatory Compliance

How does Legal Trunk assist with regulatory compliance?

Legal Trunk helps you navigate the complexities of laws and regulations across jurisdictions by providing resources such as compliance checklists, filing services and expert guidance on local legal and regulatory requirements.

What types of regulatory compliance services does Legal Trunk offer?

We provide comprehensive compliance support. Our compliance services include compliance notifications, filing services, and compliance checklists for your entities registered in different jurisdictions.

What is multijurisdictional compliance, and why is it important? Multijurisdictional compliance refers to the process of adhering to legal and regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions, whether local, state, federal, or international.

Do you have the relevant experience and expertise to offer these services for these jurisdictions?

Whether you’re operating locally or globally, Legal Trunk has the knowledge and expertise to help you comply with federal, state, and international regulations, giving you peace of mind in every market.

Are your compliance services cost-effective?

Our service saves you the expense and hassle of navigating compliance independently, reducing legal costs and allowing you to allocate resources to other priorities.

How does Legal Trunk help to mitigate compliance risks?

We proactively identify and resolve your business’ compliance rsks. Moreover, we conduct regular compliance audits to identify and rectify any gaps.

Document Template Services

How can I access Legal Trunk’s document bank services?

You can access our document bank through our platform. Sign up, and browse through our library of customisable templates specifically tailored to your legal and compliance needs.

What documents can I access through the Legal Trunk Document Bank?

You can access a variety of legal documents from employment contracts to founders agreements, intellectual property transfer agreements, NDAs and so much more from our document bank.

Are the document templates legally sound?

Yes, our document templates have been carefully vetted by lawyers with qualifications in multiple jurisdictions, and extensive experience in technology, business operations, management, and structuring.

How can I understand the document templates as a business person?

The templates are written in simple, comprehensive grammar and the legal words have been explained in terms that are easy to understand by founders and entrepreneurs without needing additional legal review.

Can I customize the document templates?

Yes, you can. Legal Trunk’s document templates are fully customisable. You can reach out to us to have them customized or fine-tune them according to your business needs.

How often are the templates updated?

Legal Trunk regularly updates its templates to reflect changes in laws and regulations. You can rest assured that our templates are up to date.