Software programs and downloads can walk you through the steps

You can purchase or download free software or templates to help you keep corporate minutes and draft corporate resolutions.

I recommend: Check out Corporate Software Manager, MyCorporation.com and FindLegalForms.

Include essential details about each meeting

When writing up the minutes, include such basic details as the name of the organization; name of the body conducting the meeting; the date, hour and location of meeting; the list of those present and those absent; the reading of previous minutes and their approval or amendment; and unfinished business.

I recommend: For more on what to include, check out the American Management Association and Lawzilla on corporate meetings and minutes.

Select these valuable books and resources

Learn the ins and outs of keeping corporate minutes, such as when resolutions are required, from several books and one monograph.

I recommend: Consider Corporate Record Keeping Made E-Z, The Corporate Minutes Book, and The Corporate Records Handbook.

Failure to keep regular minutes can cost you money

You must record minutes to a corporate board or shareholder meeting at least once a year if you are incorporated. Failure to keep regular minutes could result in a court's decision to overturn your status as a corporation. Keeping good minutes that justify your actions can also help if you are embroiled in a legal battle over corporate decisions.

I recommend: Learn more at Click&Inc.

Discard your notes after writing up the minutes

Get rid of any notes you took of the meeting after you use them to prepare the official minutes. Your notes might not correctly depict the outcome of issues. Similarly, don't try to transcribe, word for word, everything that was said at the meeting. A summary will suffice.

I recommend: Get more details on properly writing minutes plus advice on what to leave out from ABA Bank Directors.