Forming an LLC requires a different business name, which must be unique and adheres to the guidelines. The great thing is Vermont’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 Vermont 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 Vermont
Time needed: 5 minutes.
There are guidelines to follow in doing a Vermont 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 Vermont’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 Vermont.
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 Vermont
To reserve an LLC name in Vermont you need to submit a name reservation request form to the Vermont Secretary of State by mail or online by paying a filing fee of $20.
When starting a new business, one of the first steps is to choose a name that accurately reflects your company and its values. However, it is important to ensure that your chosen name is available for use as a business name in your state. This is where reserving an LLC name comes in handy. In Vermont, the process of reserving an LLC name is relatively straightforward, and can provide peace of mind as you begin building your brand.
To reserve an LLC name in Vermont, you must first conduct a name search to ensure that your desired name is available. This can be done through the Vermont Secretary of State’s website or by submitting a paper request form. It is important to note that the name you choose must be distinguishable from the names of other businesses already on file with the Secretary of State.
Once you have confirmed that your desired name is available, you can reserve it for a fee of $20 by submitting a Reservation of LLC Name form to the Secretary of State. The form requires basic information such as the LLC name, the name and address of the person making the reservation, and the proposed date of LLC formation. The name reservation is valid for 120 days, during which time you can file to form your LLC without worrying about another business taking the name you have chosen.
One important consideration when reserving an LLC name is that it does not guarantee your ability to register for a trademark. It is possible for another party to use the same or similar name for a different business after your LLC name reservation has expired, potentially causing conflict and confusion for customers. To avoid this, it is recommended that businesses also file for a federal trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Another important factor to consider when choosing an LLC name is whether it accurately reflects the goods or services that your business provides. While it may be tempting to choose a catchy or unique name, customers should be able to easily associate your business with the goods or services that you offer. This can help with brand recognition and customer retention.
In conclusion, reserving an LLC name in Vermont is a relatively simple process that can provide peace of mind as you begin building your brand. However, it is important to conduct due diligence in selecting a name that is distinguishable from other businesses and accurately reflects the goods or services that your business provides. Additionally, a name reservation does not guarantee your ability to register a trademark, so it is important to file for federal protection as an additional safeguard.
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
