HOW ABOUT FLORIDA?

The state of Florida has its believers in the public merger and IPO arena, especially if your business is located in Florida. Florida does have a corporate income tax (maximum of 5.5%), but no tax applies if you do not have a business in the state. There is no franchise tax, only a low annual report fee. The basic incorporation cost is $75, and one may incorporate online.

The Florida corporate law is based on Delaware law, and it would be familiar to lawyers familiar with Delaware law. Hey, it would be a good excuse to visit South Beach, right?

For whatever reason, there are many public companies which are incorporated in Florida. Because of the warm weather, reputation as a retirement state, and the absence of individual taxes, you may also consider moving there.