Pennsylvania LLC Name Search – How to Name Your LLC


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Forming an LLC requires a different business name, which must be unique and adheres to the guidelines. The great thing is Pennsylvania’s Department of State page includes a name availability checker. Check out LLC Name Search to learn more.

Meanwhile, if you’re interested in learning more about starting an LLC in PA or forming an LLC in general, you can check out How to Start an LLC.

How to Name an LLC in Pennsylvania

Time needed: 5 minutes

There are guidelines to follow in doing a Pennsylvania LLC name search. To learn more, check out LLC Naming Guidelines or read Foreign LLC Application for Registration if you’re planning to register a foreign LLC.

  1. Check Name Availability

    Search the Business Entity Records in Pennsylvania’s Official Department of State page to check if your chosen business name is available. You may also try typing your trademark, business, or domain name on any search engine to generate businesses with similar names and to ensure your trademark is unique and meets the state’s requirements.

    Check out How to File a DBA to learn more about registering a DBA or trademark. For social media pages, use Social Searcher to avoid using similar page names.

  2. Check Domain Availability

    If your business name is still available, you must register for a domain name using Namecheap, Google Workspace, or other domain name sites. So customers can easily find your business over the Internet. Use the Kinsta app to manage your domains efficiently.

  3. File Name Reservation

    A Name Reservation Certificate is required along with a Certificate of Formation. You can reserve a name online, by mail, or in person with a $70 filing fee (plus tax for online).

    File your Certificate of Formation and Name Reservation online on the Department of State Online Services page of Pennsylvania. You may also download the pdf file of the Name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to the Pennsylvania Department of State Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations P.O. Box 8722 Harrisburg, PA 17105-8722.

Guidelines to Follow in Naming LLC

  • Use a business name with the abbreviation “LLC” or the phrase “Limited Liability Company.”
  • Your decided business name must not coincide with any existing government entity. Otherwise, you might have to face legal lawsuits when filing your LLC.
  • Use the LLC name availability checker to ensure your business name is unique.
  • Get a license first if you plan on using restricted words to avoid any complications.

Note that you must put adequate effort into naming your LLC because this name will be with your business for a long time. Making your LLC name unique is vital as it would prevent people from confusing your business with others, not to mention it would be easier for them to recall your business, products, or services.

F.A.Qs

What is a Trade Name?

A trade name (doing business as (DBA) name) is the official name under which a proprietor or company chooses to do business.

Is having a domain name necessary?

Having a domain isn’t necessary, but it is recommended. If you have a domain name, customers will find you more accessible through online means with your online website.

What if my name is unavailable?

For domestic LLC, you can simply brainstorm for another name if the one you pick is no longer available. For foreign LLC, you must think up a “fictitious name,” which you’ll use only in the state.

How Do I Reserve an LLC Name in Pennsylvania

To reserve an LLC name in Pennsylvania you need to submit a name reservation request form to the Pennsylvana Secretary of State by mail or online by paying a filing fee of $70.

The process of reserving an LLC name in Pennsylvania is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to follow the necessary steps to avoid any complications or delays. The first step is to conduct a thorough search to ensure that the name you want to reserve is not already in use by another business. This can be done through the Pennsylvania Department of State’s online business entity search tool, which allows you to check the availability of your desired name.

Once you have confirmed that the name is available, you can then submit an Application for Reservation of Name form to the Pennsylvania Department of State. This form can be completed online or filed by mail and must include the name you wish to reserve, along with your contact information and a $70 filing fee. It’s important to double-check all the information you provide on the form to ensure that it is accurate and complete.

After submitting the form, the Department of State will review your application and, if everything is in order, will reserve the name for you for a period of 120 days. During this time, you will have the exclusive right to use the name for your LLC, giving you the opportunity to take the next steps in officially registering your business with the state.

Reserving an LLC name in Pennsylvania is not only a wise business move, but it also offers peace of mind knowing that your desired name is secured and protected. By taking the time to reserve your name, you can prevent other businesses from using it and potentially confusing your customers. This can be particularly important if you plan to expand your business in the future or operate in multiple states, as having a consistent and recognizable name can help you build trust and credibility with your target audience.

In conclusion, reserving an LLC name in Pennsylvania is a critical step in establishing your business and creating a strong brand presence. By following the necessary steps and ensuring that your desired name is available, you can protect your business and set yourself up for success in the competitive marketplace. Don’t overlook the importance of reserving your name – take the time to secure it now and pave the way for a bright future for your business.

In Conclusion

LLC names are important as it is the main identity of your business. While naming your LLC make sure to choose the one that suits the nature of your business. Follow the naming guidelines before you start filing your LLC name

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