If you are not yet ready to file incorporation or LLC formation documents, there is the option to reserve your business name with the state. Most states allow for an available business name to be reserved for a specific period of time for future use.
Why it’s important
A company name is a valuable asset that helps customers locate, understand, and remember your business. Once you’ve selected the right name that meets state requirements, you will want to prevent it from being used by another business.
The name of a corporation (C corp or S corp), LLC, limited partnership (LP), limited liability partnership (LLP) or nonprofit corporation must be distinguishable on the records of the state government. That means that it cannot be substantially similar to another name already used by a business incorporated or registered to transact business in that state.
Filing a name reservation temporarily secures your preferred entity name with the state of incorporation or qualification.
We know the naming requirements of each state
Each state has its own rules and means of checking availability. With this service, BizFilings will verify your requested name’s availability. If everything checks out, you can reserve the name.
FAQs
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How do you register an LLC or corporation name?An LLC, corporation, or other statutory entity registers its legal name with the state as part of the formation/ incorporation process. (A legal name is the official name of a business entity, which appears on its formation document.) In the case of an LLC, this occurs with the filing of the Articles of Organization; for corporations, it occurs with the filing of the Articles of Incorporation.
If you are not yet ready to form a corporation, limited liability company (LLC), limited partnership (LP), or limited liability partnership (LLP), but would like to reserve your business name for future use, filing a name reservation will prevent another company from forming in that state with that name. -
Should you reserve your LLC or corporation name?
If your preferred business name is available, it’s also available for use by another LLC or corporation. Filing a name reservation with the state can buy you time by preventing other companies from registering or reserving that same name.
This measure is particularly beneficial in states where popular business names are in high demand, as it provides peace of mind and prevents potential conflicts or legal battles over naming rights. It's a consideration for forward-thinking business owners seeking to secure a unique identity for their company in the competitive marketplace.
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How long can my business name be reserved?Time frames for name reservation vary depending on the state. An entity name can be reserved, typically for 120 days, by applying with the proper state authority and paying the necessary state reservation fee.
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What are some guidelines for naming my business?
Naming your company can be a complex decision. It is important that you portray the image you want for your new business. Legally, the name you select must be distinguishable from the name of an existing corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or partnership in your intended state of formation.
Additionally, your name must meet other state eligibility requirements. Most states require that the company name be followed by a specific identifier, such as "Corporation", "Incorporated", or an abbreviation such as "Inc." or "Corp" for corporations, "Limited Liability Company" or the abbreviation of " LLC" for LLCs, "Limited Partnership" or the abbreviation "LP" for limited partnerships or "Limited Liability Partnership" or the abbreviation of "LLP" for limited liability partnerships. These requirements vary by state.
Check our LLC and corporation state guides for more details on your state’s requirements. Remember that changing only your company’s identifier (such as from “Corporation” to “Inc.”) will not make your name distinguishable.
Tools to help you choose
We have resources to help you understand your options.
Guide to Incorporation
Learn what to expect when you're incorporating.
Talk to a BizFilings Specialist. We are here to help.