However, there are a number of states where assumed names do not have to be distinguishable, meaning more than one company can file the same assumed name.ĬT Tip: Each state varies in how it decides whether a name is different enough to be distinguishable and therefore acceptable for filing. The same rule of it being distinguishable applies in some states when filing for an assumed or DBA name. Otherwise, the state may refuse to file the documents to form your LLC or corporation.

The legal name of your LLC or corporation must be distinguishable from the names of other entities on record with the state filing office. Your legal business name must be distinguishable You can use these DBA names on your website, signs, ads, promotions, and so on. For example, if your LLC’s legal name is “Smith and Jones, LLC”, you could file a DBA to do business as “Best Painters” and another DBA to do business as “World Wide Painters”. So if you have some other business name ideas, you can use them as DBAs. But it can have any number of assumed or DBA (“doing business as”) names. Your business can have only one “legal” name at a time. You can have one legal name but more than one assumed name This name must meet the state’s business entity naming requirements for LLCs and corporations. It appears on your formation document (e.g., Articles of Incorporation or Certificate of Organization). Your business needs a legal name for the formation documentsĪn LLC’s or corporation’s legal name is the official name used when you file with the state to form your LLC or corporation. Here are twelve points to consider when selecting or changing your business name. And there are other names your corporation or LLC may use, such as DBA (assumed names), fictitious names, and domain names, that may be part of your business naming process too. Plus, the name will likely need to meet requirements concerning required or prohibited words or phrases.įurthermore, if you’ve already formed your limited liability company or corporation but want to expand your business in another state, you’ll have to satisfy the other state’s naming rules when you qualify to do business there.

This means that the name must not conflict with a name already on the state business entity filing office’s records.

Another word for issues