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.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
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.
- 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. - 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 $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.
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.
When starting a business in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering how to reserve your desired LLC name. This is an important step in the process as it ensures that no one else can use the same name and helps to establish your brand identity.
To reserve an LLC name in Pennsylvania, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name with the Department of State. This can be done online or by mail, and there is a $70 fee for the application.
After filing the application, the name will be reserved for 120 days. This gives you plenty of time to complete the necessary paperwork to officially form your LLC and secure your chosen name.
It is important to note that the reservation of a name does not automatically give you the right to use that name as your business name. You still need to follow the process of forming an LLC and ensure that the name you have chosen is available and does not infringe on any existing trademarks.
Before reserving a name, it is a good idea to do some research to ensure that there are no other businesses operating under the same name. This can help to avoid potential legal issues down the road and ensure that you are able to establish a strong brand identity.
It is also important to consider the overall branding of your business when choosing a name. Your LLC name should be memorable, easy to pronounce, and reflect the values and services of your business.
If you are struggling to come up with a name for your LLC, consider using a business name generator or consulting with a branding expert. They can help you come up with a name that is unique and reflective of your business.
In conclusion, reserving an LLC name in Pennsylvania is a straightforward process that can help to protect your brand and ensure that your desired name is available once you are ready to form your business. However, it is important to do your research beforehand and ensure that the name you have chosen is available and does not infringe on any existing trademarks. With a little bit of work and planning, you can choose a great name that will help your business succeed for years to come.
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
