Bring an outline to the first conversation
Prepare possible names, an activity description and a list of intended owners and signatories. Note whether the company will need premises, staff or additional approvals. Keep identity copies out of general enquiry messages.
Treat individual and corporate ownership separately
A company shareholder may need to show corporate records or evidence of who can act for it. Ask the authority which version, format and authentication it accepts. Use its checklist for the proposed entity.
Turn the checklist into a tracker
Add a column for who can provide each record and whether the document is ready, pending or needs clarification. Confirm how sensitive copies should be transferred and where the final version will be held.