Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Forming an LLC requires a different business name, which must be unique and adheres to the guidelines. The great thing is New York’s Secretary 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 a New York LLC or forming an LLC in general, you can check out How to Start an LLC.
How to Name an LLC in New York
Time needed: 5 minutes
There are guidelines to follow in doing a New York 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.
- Check Name Availability
Search the Business Entity Records in New York’s Official Secretary 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. - 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.
- 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 $20 filing fee (plus tax for online).
File your Certificate of Formation and Name Reservation online on the Secretary of State Online Services page of New York. You may also download the pdf file of the Name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations, One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231.
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.
How to do a Business Entity Search in New York
It is crucial to select the name you want to use for your LLC. If you have a distinctive name for your LLC and no other business using it, you will need to search the New York State website to confirm it. Take a look at the following information and be aware of the process.
Utilize the state’s search engine for businesses.
The New York Department of State Division of Corporations provides a business search website. This tool can assist you in determining if the proposed name has been taken already. It is only necessary to have a backup names list, so you can quickly choose an alternative.
Enter your name
There are various kinds of searches that you can perform when you reach the page for a search. You can search for the entity’s name or by entity ID. You will be given a drop-down menu to make your choices easier. Be sure to fill out the form for your search choice accordingly.
Do the search
There are several ways to find a name. The first method allows you to search by name, under which you can use a name ID, an assumed name, or an assumed ID. Choose one and be sure to fill out the form that follows.
You can further filter your search with an entity type, search functionality, or entity list. For search functionality, you can use the result to show you businesses that contain the word you input or those that start with it.
As for entity type, you can choose from active, inactive, or suspended.
How Do I Reserve an LLC Name in New York
Registering a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the state of New York is a prudent business move that offers several advantages over other business structures. By establishing an LLC, entrepreneurs can protect their personal assets, enjoy tax benefits, and have the flexibility to run their business as they see fit. However, before officially forming an LLC, one crucial step is reserving a name. In this editorial, we will delve into the significance of reserving an LLC name in New York and guide aspiring business owners in this important process.
Naming a business is a substantial decision that requires careful consideration. An LLC’s name should be unique, reflective of its nature, memorable, and aligned with the brand image it seeks to create. New York’s Department of State recognizes the significance of a business name, so much so that it offers a name reservation service. Reserving a name in the state secures it for a period of time, ensuring that no other entity can take it while you take the necessary steps to establish your LLC.
The process of reserving an LLC name in New York is straightforward. Individuals can complete the reservation through the Department of State’s website or mail the necessary forms. The standard form, known as the “Application for Reservation of Name,” requests vital information such as the name to be reserved, details of the person submitting the application, and their address. Submitting the required details, along with the reservation fee, are the primary requisites for name reservation.
Once an LLC name is successfully reserved, it remains protected for a period of 60 days. During this time, aspiring business owners can proceed with confidence, knowing that their desired LLC name will be available when they complete the formation process. Keep in mind, however, that name reservation does not equate to forming an LLC, as further steps are necessary to register the business entity with the state.
While reserving an LLC name may seem like an additional bureaucratic hurdle, it is a step not to be neglected. In a highly competitive market like New York, where numerous businesses are eager to establish their presence and captivate customers, a well-thought-out and distinguishable name can make all the difference. It’s essential to demonstrate seriousness and professionalism right from the start, and reserving the LLC name is an important part of that process.
Bear in mind that the name reservation process allows for only the reservation of one name to be associated with one person or entity. A slight modification is necessary if one person or entity intends to reserve multiple names. Moreover, it is crucial to note that reserving an LLC name does not confer any legal rights to the name itself until the LLC is successfully formed and registered with the state authorities.
To conclude, reserving a unique and appealing name is an integral part of establishing an LLC in New York. This process, provided by the Department of State, enables entrepreneurs to lay the foundation for their business and instill trust and professionalism in potential clients. Therefore, aspiring business owners should familiarize themselves with the necessary documents and steps, submit them in a timely manner, and reserve their desired name confidently. Only then can entrepreneurs proceed towards forming their LLC, knowing that their name is guarded against misappropriation.
F.A.Qs
A trade name (doing business as (DBA) name) is the official name under which a proprietor or company chooses to do business.
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.
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 New York
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the importance of choosing a unique and distinguishable name for your LLC. The name you select will be the primary way that customers, vendors, and competitors identify your business. It’s crucial that your name accurately represents your brand and sets you apart from others in your industry. Additionally, your name must comply with New York’s naming requirements, which include using the words “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviated “LLC” in your company name.
Once you have decided on a name for your LLC, it’s time to reserve it with the New York Department of State. Reserving a name is a simple process that can be completed online or by mail. To reserve a name online, visit the New York Department of State’s website and navigate to the Certificate of Reserve a Name form. You’ll need to provide your contact information, the name you wish to reserve, and the desired duration of the reservation (up to 60 days). There is a small fee associated with reserving a name online, which can be paid by credit or debit card.
If you prefer to reserve a name by mail, you can download the Certificate of Reserve a Name form from the Department of State’s website and submit it along with a check or money order for the applicable fee. Mail-in reservations may take longer to process than online reservations, so be sure to plan accordingly if you choose this option.
It’s important to note that reserving a name does not automatically register your LLC with the state. Once you have reserved your desired name, you will need to complete the necessary paperwork to officially form your LLC. This typically involves filing Articles of Organization with the New York Department of State and paying the associated filing fee. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney or business advisor during this process to ensure that all requirements are met and that your business is legally compliant.
Reserving an LLC name in New York is a critical step in establishing your business and protecting your brand. By taking the time to select a unique and distinguishable name, and reserving it with the Department of State, you can lay the groundwork for a successful and legally compliant business. Whether you choose to reserve your name online or by mail, be sure to follow the necessary steps to secure your chosen name and embark on the exciting journey of starting your own LLC.
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