Forming an LLC requires a different business name, which must be unique and adheres to the guidelines. The great thing is Oregon’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 an Oregon LLC or forming an LLC in general, you can check out How to Start an LLC.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
How to Name an LLC in Oregon
Time needed: 5 minutes
There are guidelines to follow in doing an Oregon 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 Oregon’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 $100 filing fee (plus tax for online).
File your Certificate of Formation and Name Reservation online on the Secretary of State Online Services page of Oregon. You may also download the pdf file of the Name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to the Secretary of State – Corporation Division – 255 Capitol St. NE, Suite 151 – Salem, OR 97310-1327.
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 Oregon LLC Online Name Search
Business names are absolutely crucial. Because any business’ values are depicted through the name. It might be hard at times to choose a perfect name, and it should also adhere to the guidelines. You can take help from the Oregon LLC name search option to make sure that the name is still available or not. Here are the steps you can follow to search for the available entity names:
- Step 1: To search for the available names, visit the Oregon Secretary of State,
- Step 2: Type the business name or Registry number in the field provided and click enter. You will get the details of businesses available with your name entered. This will help you in selecting the desired name for your business.
Trademark Search
There is one more option to search for the business entity name, i.e., a Trademark search. This option has a full database of business entities available with the trademarks. You will get the full list and search for some specific name from the entire list.
How Do I Reserve an LLC Name in Oregon
To reserve an LLC name in Oregon you need to submit a name reservation request form to the Oregon Secretary of State by mail or online by paying a filing fee of $100.
Setting up a business can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking endeavor. There are numerous foundational aspects to consider, one of which is naming your limited liability company (LLC). Your LLC name is an essential component, as it not only distinguishes you from other businesses but also embodies your brand and values. So, how exactly can you reserve an LLC name in Oregon?
To reserve an LLC name in the state of Oregon, you are required to file an application with the Corporation Division of the Secretary of State. Begin by conducting a search to confirm that your desired name is unique and not already in use by another business. This search can be done easily online using the Business Name Search tool provided on the Oregon Secretary of State’s website. Once you verify that your desired name is available, you can take the necessary steps to secure your chosen LLC name.
Before jumping into the application process, it is crucial to understand the significance of reserving your desired name. Reserving your chosen LLC name offers temporary protection against someone else registering a business under that name during the reservation period. In Oregon, this period generally lasts for 120 days. By reserving your LLC name, you allow yourself sufficient time to gather the necessary paperwork, complete registration procedures, and solidify your business plans without worrying about someone else snatching your ideal name.
To execute the name reservation process, you must file an Application for Name Reservation along with the applicable fee. The application form can be downloaded from the Oregon Secretary of State’s website or obtained in person by visiting their office. While filling out the form, you should provide your desired LLC name, your name, address, and contact information, and the signature of an organizer or authorized officer. After completing the necessary fields, ensure that all the information provided is accurate and double-check for any errors before submitting the application.
After submission, the Corporation Division will review your application to ensure its completeness and eligibility. Once approved, the requested name will be officially reserved for 120 days, protecting it from being registered by other businesses within that time frame. It is essential to note that name reservations in Oregon are not renewable once the 120-day period expires. Therefore, it is crucial to initiate the LLC registration process promptly to secure your desired name permanently.
Remember that reserving an LLC name alone does not grant you full legal recognition; it is merely the first step in establishing your business identity. To become a legally recognized LLC entity, you must file Articles of Organization with the Oregon Secretary of State’s office. These Articles will officially form your LLC and allow you to conduct business within the state.
In conclusion, the process of reserving an LLC name in Oregon involves conducting a thorough search to ensure name availability, filing an application with the Corporation Division, and paying the required fee. By reserving your desired LLC name, you can gain temporary protection from other businesses attempting to register the same name. Use this opportunity wisely, and make sure to follow up promptly by filing Articles of Organization to have your LLC officially recognized.
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.
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
