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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 Rhode Island’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 Rhode Island LLC or forming an LLC in general, you can check out How to Start an LLC.
How to Name an LLC in Rhode Island
Time needed: 5 minutes
There are guidelines to follow in doing a Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island’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 $50 filing fee (plus tax for online).
File your Certificate of Formation and Name Reservation online on the Secretary of State Online Services page of Rhode Island. You may also download the pdf file of the Name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to the Office of the Secretary of State Corporations Division 148 W. River Street Providence, Rhode Island 02904-2615.
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 Rhode Island LLC Online Name Search
Naming a business is one of the fundamental steps. But it can be hard at times because the name you want should be available also. For this purpose, you can run a Rhode Island LLC name search. There are the following ways to search for the availability of any business entity name:
Search by Entity Name
Once you land on the Rhode Island SOS page, you can search by using the entity name. Enter the name in the search field provided. You can refine your search by the ‘search type’ option.
Search by Individual Name
Another option available for business entity search is by individual name. Type the first, middle, and last names in the provided fields. Select the type in the ‘Search type’ dropdown list. Press enter and you will get the list of businesses available.
Search by Identification Number
You can also try to search for a business entity through an Identification number. You just need to enter the 9-digit identification number in the field provided, then press enter.
Search by Filing Number
One more way to search for the business name availability is by the filing number. You have to enter this 12-digit number in the search tab, and press enter. You will get the details of the business registered against the provided number.
Search by Agent
This is another method to search for names available. You have to type the agent name in the search tab and press enter. For refining your search, you can select the options in the ‘search type’ dropdown list.
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 Rhode Island
To reserve an LLC name in Rhode Island you need to submit a name reservation request form to the Rhode Island Secretary of State by mail or online by paying a filing fee of $50.
The first step in reserving an LLC name in Rhode Island is to choose a unique and distinguishable name for your company. The name you select should not be too similar to existing LLC names in the state, as this could lead to confusion and potential legal issues down the line. Additionally, it is important to make sure that your chosen name complies with the state’s naming requirements, which typically prohibit names that are misleading or deceptive.
Once you have chosen a name for your LLC, you can then file a Name Reservation Request with the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s office. This can typically be done online or by mail, and involves submitting a form with your chosen LLC name, as well as a small fee to reserve the name for a specified period of time. By reserving your LLC name, you can prevent other businesses from using it while you complete the necessary steps to formally establish your company.
It is important to note that reserving an LLC name does not give you exclusive rights to use the name, but rather prevents other businesses from using it during the reservation period. To fully protect your brand and ensure that no one else can use your chosen name, you will need to officially register your LLC with the state of Rhode Island. This typically involves submitting articles of organization, paying any required fees, and obtaining any necessary licenses or permits to operate your business legally.
In addition to reserving and registering your LLC name, it is also important to consider trademarking your company name to further protect your brand and exclusive rights to use it. While trademarking your business name is not required, it can provide additional legal protections and help establish your company as a distinct and recognizable entity in the marketplace.
In conclusion, reserving an LLC name in Rhode Island is a crucial step in establishing your business and protecting your brand. By choosing a unique name, filing a Name Reservation Request, and eventually registering your LLC with the state, you can ensure that your business identity is secure and that no one else can use your chosen name. Take the time to carefully consider and reserve your LLC name, and you will be on your way to building a strong and successful business in the Ocean 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