To check a business name for availability, please log into your INBiz account and click Online Services. Under the Secretary of State section, select Name Reservations. Enter the desired name and click Check availability. Show
One of the most difficult parts of starting a business is finding the perfect name. You need to find the right balance of functionality and appeal — letting your customers know what you do with a business name that’s memorable and builds trust. You’ll also need to conduct a corporation/LLC name search with your state to make sure it isn't already in use before you can officially register your business. Read on for our advice on choosing the perfect name and how to run a business entity search in your state so you can get your business up and running. Why the Right Business Name MattersBefore you start thinking about a good name for your business, let’s explore its importance:
Your business name is your organization’s public identity, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right. Questions to Ask When Creating a Business NameRather than creating the right business name from nowhere, it’s worth considering a few questions to get you thinking in the right direction:
Brainstorm Business Name IdeasNow that you know what you want your business name to do, it’s time to start creating ideas:
We’ve also published three guides you may find helpful:
Once you have a few names, go down this list of questions for each one to help you build a list:
Rules for Business NamesThere are some rules about naming your business, which are common across all states:
Additionally, most states will not allow you to form businesses with names that:
Conducting an LLC Name SearchBusinesses, whether they're an LLC or corporation, are formed at the state level, and every state requires that business names are unique. This means you must search for your business name to check that another entity in your state isn’t using it. You have a couple of ways to do this:
Using Incfile's Business Name Search makes the process quick and easy, and you can even choose to form your business immediately if the name you want is available. Deciding on Your Final Business NameNow that you have a short list of names that are unique and not used by another business in your state, you can decide on your favorite. For each name on your list, go through the questions again and make sure the name fits with your intent for your business. Talk to the people you know, speak with potential customers and get feedback on the name. Then, you can make the final decision and get your business started. Don't forget that Incfile makes it easy to start your business. If you use our Business Name Search tool, you can choose to form your business with us once you've settled on a name. Incfile provides unmatched customer service and has formed well over 250,000 companies. Our experience provides us with vast knowledge and experience in filing business entities, and we are familiar with the nuances of each of the 50 states.
Business Name Searches in all 50 StatesIncfile’s business entity search tool is super easy to use, but you can also search directly with your state’s business formation agency.
Paul MaplesdenPaul is a freelance writer, small business owner, and British expat exploring the U.S. When he’s not politely apologizing, he enjoys hats, hockey, Earl Grey Tea, mountains, and dogs. How do you check if a name is taken for a business?Businesses in every state are subject to trademark infringement lawsuits, which can prove costly. That's why you should check your prospective business, product, and service names against the official trademark database, maintained by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
How do I find out if an LLC is available in Illinois?You also may email your Corporate Name Availability Request or call 217-782-6961. For LLC availability, please call 217-524-8008.
How do I check if an LLC name is available in Texas?If you wish the secretary of state to provide a preliminary determination on name availability, you may call (512) 463-5555, dial 7-1-1 for relay services, or e-mail your name inquiry to Corporations Section. A final determination cannot be made until the document is received and processed by the secretary of state.
How do you check if a name has been registered?You can search all applied-for and registered trademarks free of charge by using the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)'s Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS).
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