“Books and Records” refer to a company’s compilation of its corporate documents in one centralized location. State laws vary on the related requirements for the maintenance of Books and Records. From a corporate law perspective, a company typically must maintain as part of the Books and Records its Articles of Incorporation (or Certificate of Incorporation), Bylaws, Minutes and Written Consents relating to the company’s Annual Meetings and other Board and Stockholder actions, and Stock Ledger.

Some people refer to Books and Records more generally as all of a company’s legal, financial and operational documents and information.

Maintaining accurate and organized Books and Records is critical for a company’s future Financing, commercial and other transactions, especially when the other parties conduct thorough Due Diligence.

See also Corporate Minute Book.