What is the Difference Between Inc. and Corp.?

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The terms "Inc." and "Corp." are abbreviations used in the names of incorporated business entities. Both abbreviations represent businesses that have been granted a charter and possess a legal structure, compliance rules, limited liability, and tax structures. However, there are some differences between the two:

  1. Meaning: "Inc." stands for "incorporated," while "Corp." is an abbreviation for "corporation".
  2. Usage: When registering a business as a corporation, owners must use one of these abbreviations or words in the name. Once an institution is registered with "Inc." or "Corp." in the company name, it must use this extension in all its legal paperwork.
  3. Consistency: Both abbreviations represent separate legal entities, and once an entity is registered with "Inc." or "Corp." in its name, it cannot use both abbreviations at the same time.

In summary, both "Inc." and "Corp." represent incorporated business entities with similar legal structures, compliance rules, limited liability, and tax structures. However, they cannot be used interchangeably, and a business must consistently use one abbreviation or the other in its name and legal paperwork.

Comparative Table: Inc. vs Corp.

The main difference between "Inc." and "Corp." lies in their usage and abbreviation, but both terms represent a company that has gone through the process of incorporation. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Feature Inc. Corp.
Full Name Incorporated Corporation
Usage Mainly in North America Used globally
Legal Status Separate legal entity Separate legal entity
Limited Liability Shareholders not personally liable Shareholders not personally liable
Tax Structure No difference No difference
Legal Structure No difference No difference
Compliance Obligations No difference No difference

Both "Inc." and "Corp." are used in the names of incorporated entities, and they cannot be used interchangeably. Once a company is registered with "Inc." or "Corp." in its name, it must use that extension in all its legal paperwork. The choice between "Inc." and "Corp." depends on the company's preference and region of operation.