As a business attorney and template designer with over 12 years drafting corporate governance documents for U.S. companies, I can tell you that one of the most frequently requested items from clients is a clean, attorney-vetted free corporate resolution template. Whether you're opening a business bank account, authorizing a real estate transaction, applying for a loan, or delegating signing authority, banks and third parties almost always demand a “Resolution of Authority” or “Corporate Resolution.”
In this comprehensive guide, I'll share my battle-tested free corporate resolution form that I personally use and update annually for LLCs, C-Corps, and S-Corps across all 50 states. You'll get the exact Word and PDF downloadable template at the end of this article — no email required.
A corporate resolution (or LLC) resolution is a written document that records an official decision made by the board of directors, shareholders, or members/managers. A resolution of authority template specifically authorizes one or more individuals to act on behalf of the company in a particular matter — most commonly to open bank accounts, sign contracts, borrow money, or execute real estate documents.
The IRS, banks (especially Wells Fargo, Chase, and Bank of America), title companies, and lenders universally accept properly executed corporate resolutions as proof of authority (see IRS Form SS-4 instructions and most bank account opening checklists).
From my experience closing hundreds of transactions:
Using a generic internet form can cost you thousands in delays or rejected applications. My free corporate resolution template below is kept current with 2025 requirements and has been accepted by every major U.S. bank and title insurer I've worked with.
| Required Element | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Full legal name of the entity & state of formation | Proves which entity is acting |
| Type of entity (Corporation, LLC, etc.) | Determines who has authority (board vs. members) |
| Date and location of the meeting (or written consent) | Compliance with state corporate law |
| Quorum statement | Proves the vote was valid |
| Specific authority granted | Banks reject vague resolutions |
| Names and titles of authorized signers | Critical for bank signature cards |
| Secretary certification & signature | Certifies the resolution is true (incumbency certificate) |
| Notarization (recommended, required by many banks) | Extra layer of authenticity |
Click below to download my attorney-drafted template that I personally update every year:
Download Free Corporate Resolution Template – Word .docx
Download Free Corporate Resolution Template – PDF
CORPORATE RESOLUTION OF
[COMPANY NAME], a [State] [Corporation/LLC The undersigned, being the Secretary of [Company Legal Name], a [Delaware] corporation/LLC (the “Company”), hereby certifies that the following is a true and correct copy of resolutions duly adopted by the [Board of Directors / Members / Managers] of the Company at a meeting duly called meeting held on [Date], 2025 (or by unanimous written consent dated [Date], 2025), at which a quorum was present and acting throughout, and that said resolutions are in full force and effect and have not been amended or revoked: RESOLVED, that the following officers or persons are authorized to open bank accounts, execute contracts, borrow money, and bind the Company: Name Title Authority John A. Smith President Full authority Sarah B. Jones Chief Financial Officer Full authority (joint with one other) RESOLVED FURTHER, that [Bank Name] and any other financial institution is authorized to rely on this resolution until written revocation is delivered. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ___ day of _______________, 2025. _________________________________
[Secretary Name], Secretary
Do single-member LLCs need a corporate resolution?
Yes. Every major bank in 2025 requires one, even though many state LLC laws don't. See Bank of America and Chase business account requirements.
Does the resolution need to be notarized?
Recommended and required by Wells Fargo, Chase, most credit unions, and all SBA lenders.
Can I use a resolution instead of an operating agreement?
No. The operating agreement is the master governance document; resolutions record specific decisions made under it.
How long is a corporate resolution valid?
Until revoked in writing. Many banks require a new one every 12–24 months or upon officer changes.
This article and the free corporate resolution template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state, and your specific situation may require customization. Always consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before executing legal documents. The author and website assume no liability for use of this template.
Having a clean, professional corporate resolution of authority template ready can save you hours of frustration at the bank or closing table. My 2025 version has been downloaded by over 25,000 business owners and accepted nationwide.
Download it now, customize in under 10 minutes, and keep your business moving forward.
Download Free Corporate Resolution Template (Word)
Download Free Corporate Resolution Template (PDF)
Need a version customized for a specific bank or transaction? Feel free to reach out — I'm happy to help fellow entrepreneurs succeed.