Naming an LLC isn\u2019t like naming your business as a sole trader. Becoming an LLC means entering a particular government framework, so there are multiple state-mandated rules you have to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It might seem complicated, but there\u2019s a big upside. The owners of Limited Liability Companies have\u2026 limited liability! This means that their personal assets cannot be used to fulfill obligations and pay debts of the business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Forming and naming an LLC makes sense when your business has a significant turnover \u2014 it\u2019s often a recommended step when you hit $100,000 per year. It\u2019s also a great option if you have business partners, as owning an LLC protects your assets from decisions made by other owners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You might even launch your business as an LLC to save hassle down the road. Whatever stage you\u2019re at in your business journey, let\u2019s find out how to name your LLC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So you\u2019re asking \u201cwhat should I name my LLC\u201d? Well, first we\u2019re going to have to look at what not <\/em>to name your LLC. Limited Liability Companies are a special legal entity, so you have to abide by a few rules before you can start getting creative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n LLCs have to be identified as such. This means you have to include LLC or Limited in the name, in some form. You\u2019re allowed to use abbreviations, giving you a few options. Let\u2019s say your business name is Systems Analysis, your LLC name could be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alongside the requirements for inclusion, there are some words you\u2019re not allowed to use in your LLC name. This includes \u201ccorporation\u201d, \u201cInc.\u201d and \u201cincorporation\u201d, because an LLC is a different kind of business to a corporation<\/a>. Words associating your business with a government entity, such as \u201cfederal\u201d are also likely to be banned in your state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Words that imply you\u2019re a particular kind of business, including bank, trustee, insurer, <\/strong>and insurance company<\/strong> are restricted. Unless you hold the appropriate legal licenses to act as these kinds of enterprises, you cannot use them when naming an LLC. Even if you are operating one of these businesses, you\u2019ll need permission from the relevant governing body before you can use these words in your name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Similarly, words such as \u201cattorney\u201d and \u201cmedical\u201d may be restricted in particular states. When including these words, you may have to provide additional documentation demonstrating the appropriate licenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, Systems Analysis Medical LLC <\/strong>would likely be a restricted name, even if you offered software for medical practices. That\u2019s because it could mislead the public into thinking you offered medical services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your LLC name should be unique in your state and cannot violate any trademarks. Before choosing your LLC name you should check your state\u2019s database for existing names to avoid a conflict, and perform trademark analysis to check for potential overlap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t use any<\/em> existing name. For example, Apple Systems Analysis LLC <\/strong>is probably a trademark conflict, because there\u2019s an overlap with the market of Apple Computers. However, Apple Greengrocers LLC <\/strong>could be a legally viable name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, big companies like Apple can be vigorous in defence of their trademarks. If you want to avoid potential conflict, avoid names that are reminiscent of famous multinationals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n LLC names are determined by state, so check your local Secretary of State office for the appropriate guidelines. For example, if you\u2019re forming an LLC in Alaska<\/a>, the words \u201ccity\u201d, \u201cborough\u201d and \u201cvillage\u201d are banned from LLC names, while in Georgia<\/a>, \u201cbanc\u201d and \u201cbanque\u201d are restricted as well as \u201cbank\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are some restrictions for naming your LLC \u2014 Memory Bank LLC is out of the running, even if you sell computer hardware and hard drives, for example. But that doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t get creative and come up with a powerful, memorable name<\/a> for your limited liability company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s the ultimate guide to naming your LLC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Naming an LLC has to start with your brand. Throughout the lifespan of your business, your name has to connect with customers on a deep, emotional level. It should communicate the heart and soul of your business, your values, your mission, and the unique solutions you provide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So ask yourself a few questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Answering these questions will help understand the relationship you\u2019re going to form with your customers. Is an ethical commitment to people and planet at the heart of your production? Or are you looking to place luxury and prestige at the center of your branding, and inspire your customers to appreciate a moment of indulgence?<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re seeking to emphasize your ethical foundation, then the color green could feature in your name. Whereas with luxury, you might choose gold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Top tip: <\/strong>This is a matter of brand positioning. Our AI-powered brand-building tool<\/a> can help you produce an outline of your brand\u2019s direction, and get you one step closer to finding the perfect business name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you\u2019ve finished looking inward at your brand\u2019s origin and identity, you can start to place it in a wider context. Examine your competitors and identify the naming trends they\u2019re following: for example, many online tools and apps are ending their names in \u201c-ify\u201d, such as Spotify and Wealthify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do you want to follow these trends to signal your purpose to your customers? Or do you want to stand out from the crowd?<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should also work to understand your audience demographics. Are they younger or older; how much disposable income do they have?<\/p>\n\n\n\n These questions can further inform your brand. Will a quirky brand tone endear you to your future customers, or irk them if the humor doesn\u2019t hit home?<\/p>\n\n\n\n With your brand positioning finalized, it\u2019s time to get down to the business of names. Don\u2019t forget the LLC naming rules outlined above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n First, choose the format of LLC you\u2019ll attach to your business name: for example LLC, Limited, or Limited Liability Corporate. Most businesses choose a simple \u201cLLC\u201d at this stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Second, check your state\u2019s local requirements and restrictions. If you want to use a restricted word such as \u201cmedical\u201d or \u201cbank\u201d, are you able to get the appropriate permissions to do so?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your business name must be memorable and easy for your customers to share with their friends. That means that the spelling and pronunciation should be obvious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s say you\u2019re considering Systems Analysis LLC. You should rule out Sistems Analysis LLC, Syst3ms Analysis LLC, and Systems An@lysis LLC right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Atom, we like the \u201ccrowded bar test\u201d as a heuristic for a good name. Imagine your business name being passed between customers at a loud, packed bar on a Friday night. Will everyone catch your name and remember it tomorrow?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get together with friends, family, and stakeholders to build a shortlist of LLC names. Given the constraints \u2014 trademark concerns, audience validation, and domain name availability \u2014 it\u2019s important to have several options at this stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your LLC name has to be unique in your state, so check the local register of companies to ensure your shortlisted names are viable LLC names in your region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At this stage, I urge you to think bigger than your local state, however. If you have ambitions of growing your business beyond the borders of your local area, assess the wider trademark environment to find a name that you can use as you expand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Expert Tip: <\/strong>Atom\u2019s Free Trademark Check<\/a> searches worldwide databases to flag potential trademark conflicts. Remember that you can use the same name as someone else if you\u2019re operating in different markets or industries, but don\u2019t hamper your growth by choosing a restricted name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before settling on a name, consider validating your choice through audience testing. In a fast-moving world, cultural assumptions and connotations change fast. By confirming your choice among your targeted demographic, you can take your LLC into the world with confidence, certain that the brand identity emphasized by your name will be received and understood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our deep-targeted audience testing service<\/a> provides powerful insights about the emotional connections and positive, or negative, connotations your shortlisted names have among your potential customers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Over one-quarter of all business<\/a> will be done online in 2024, which means your LLC name needs to provide you with a powerful online platform. Whether you\u2019re selling high-tech software solutions or low-fi vintage vinyl, a website is how you connect with customers and build brand awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And for a website, you need the perfect domain name. Before finalizing your LLC name, cross reference your shortlisted names with available domain names. Or better yet, start your search on a Premium Marketplace<\/a> with only expert-curated brandable names. You\u2019ll find your perfect match. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Still asking \u201cwhat should I name my LLC\u201d? Atom has a range of resources to help you choose. Check out our business name generator to kickstart your brainstorming<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While it\u2019s important to find a strong, memorable, and brandable name for your LLC, you don\u2019t always have to trade as your LLC name. If you\u2019re pivoting to promote a new service or rebranding your business, you can register a DBA (Doing Business As) name or Assumed Name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n DBAs are secondary names for businesses operating on any name other than their legal name. While your LLC name is your official name for legal documents and tax purposes, you can build your brand around a DBA or assumed name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Registering a DBA is simple enough and, like LLC names, the process varies from state to state. However, it can dilute your brand and confuse your customers if you\u2019ve established yourself under your LLC name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Follow our steps for naming your LLC and you\u2019ll likely land on a powerful brand name that\u2019s a big hit with your customers. However, there are a few common mistakes people make when naming an LLC. Here they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can\u2019t name your LLC something too similar to an existing business name in your state. So how do you know if an LLC name is taken?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Every state has a searchable database of company names \u2014 here\u2019s California\u2019s, for example<\/a>. It\u2019s usually located on the website of the Secretary of State, or findable with a quick Google search of \u201c[state] LLC search\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember that these databases are local to the specific state only. If you\u2019re trying to find a name that\u2019s unique across all states, you\u2019ll have to dig deeper. Perform thorough research about your chosen name, use our Free Trademark Search<\/a>, and consider hiring an attorney to be sure your name is yours alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you\u2019ve found the perfect name, you\u2019ll have to get started on the application form for registering your LLC name. However, this process can take some time. What if someone else nabs your LLC name in the meantime? To reserve your LLC name, file a reservation request at the Secretary of State\u2019s office. This can be done entirely paper-free in many states with electronic signatures<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s usually a small fee associated with reserving your name. In California, for example, it\u2019s $10<\/a>, and you can reserve your name online for 60 days<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With your name chosen and reserved, there\u2019s nothing left but to register your LLC name. This makes it official \u2014 you have a limited liability company with a powerful, recognizable name. Here\u2019s how to do it. <\/p>\n\n\n\nInclude LLC in the name<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Avoid banned words<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t mislead about your business purpose<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Be unique<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Abide by state rules<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to Name Your LLC: Guidelines and Tips<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Understand your brand<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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2. Assess industry and audience expectations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Remember the LLC Naming Rules<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Make sure it\u2019s memorable<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Build a shortlist<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Assess availability and avoid trademark conflicts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Validate through audience testing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Find a matching domain name<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ready to Get Brainstorming?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
LLC Names and DBA Names<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Mistakes to Avoid When Naming Your LLC<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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How to Check if Your LLC Name is Available<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reserving Your LLC Name<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, most states allow you to reserve your LLC name for a period of 60 to 120 days. This gives you breathing space to organize your registration, as well as related naming activities such as acquiring your domain name<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow to Register Your LLC Name<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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