How to Form an LLC: Choosing the Right Business Name
Now that you have decided to form an LLC, you need to choose the best name for your business. While it is important to select a name that best matches your company, there are a few additional requirements that you must pay close attention to when you form an LLC.
- Difficulty:
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Instructions
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Choose a Name - As you prepare your articles of incorporation, you are required to provide the name of your LLC. Pay special attention to your business name. It says a lot about who you are as a company. It is your brand; your identity.
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Understand the Naming Requirements - You must select a unique business name. If you submit a name that has been taken, the state filing office will return your paperwork to you. It is, therefore, best if you check to see if the name is available before completing your articles of organization.
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Additional Naming Requirements - It is also important that the name you select is not similar to any famous business names. Large companies, such as McDonald's and Microsoft, have spent years developing the goodwill associated with their names. If you come along and try to use a similar name, they will defend themselves. Additionally, do not select a name that infringes upon a trademark.
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Other Naming Requirements - While each LLC must conform to its state's legal requirements, it is important that you follow a few additional naming conventions. Any LLC must have something that designates your company as a Limited Liability Corporation. Typically, you can abbreviate the words Limited and Corporation, but not the word Liability.
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Tips & Warnings
Always seek the advise of a qualified professional. Each state has slightly different rules and regulations that may cause your application to form an LLC to be denied.
