Finding an original and inspiring name for your business is no easy task. The North Carolina Business Name Search compares potential names for your business against those already registered in the state. Launch your new business venture confident that you have a strong, one-of-a-kind name.
When you’re satisfied with your name choice, contact the North Carolina government and register your new business name. This might sound challenging, but this article will guide you through every step of the process. Keep reading to learn how to register your North Carolina business name, the costs involved, and why it is so important!
Generate Business Name Ideas
Preparation for North Carolina Business Name Search
Before using the North Carolina Business Name Search, prepare a few potential names that embody your new business. Names should be memorable, accessible, and relate to the services you provide. Why not try to include keywords that are bold and striking?
Struggling for ideas? Check out our variety of business name generators, which offer fantastic suggestions for a range of different industries. All you need to do is type your keywords into the generator and we will do the rest.
How to Search for Available Names in North Carolina
Once you are armed with at least one potential name for your new business, check it is not already being used. Conduct a Google search for your proposed business name to identify if it is already registered with another business. This can also identify whether the name is similar to other business names and could be confused or associated with them.
Further research can be done via the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website. Access the database of registered business names in North Carolina to see if your proposed name is already in use.
A strong online presence is integral to the success of your business. We recommend using our instant domain name generator. Get thousands of examples of great domain names and check their availability all in one place!
How to Register a Business Name in North Carolina
Once you have determined your business name, you are ready to put it to use!
If you are running an LLC, C-Corp, S-Corp, LP, or LLP, file your formation documents to register your business name with the state automatically. The North Carolina Secretary of State’s office details which formation documents are required for each type of entity.
These documents can be submitted online, mailed to the Business Registration Division, or delivered in person. Filings can also be expedited for a fee; include your request on a cover letter/sheet when you submit your documents.
If you are registering a sole proprietorship or general partnership, you can register an assumed business name, or a DBA (“Doing Business As”) name, with the local county clerk. However, if you want to use your personal name as your business name, you do not need to register it.
Policies and Procedures for Registering a Business Name in North California
Be aware of certain legal requirements for choosing your business name in North California.
- Avoid offensive language or language that states/implies that your entity carries out business other than what is permitted by its formation documents.
- Consider the necessary entity designators or endings (such as inc. or LLC).
- Keep in mind that there are certain prohibited words and phrases. You can only use these if you have permission from the proper legal authority.
It is important to note that your chosen name is not guaranteed until you have received all the necessary documents from the North California SOS. To avoid losing out financially, we recommend not spending money on branding or advertising until you’re fully registered.
North California Business Registration Office
North California Secretary of State
| Website | https://www.sosnc.gov |
| Email Address | [email protected] |
| Mailing Address | Post Office Box 29622Raleigh, North California 27626-0622 |
| Physical Address | 2 South Salisbury StreetRaleigh, North Carolina 27601-2903 |
| Telephone | 919-814-5400 |
| Opening Hours | 8 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday |
How to Register a Business Name in North Carolina Online Portal
Register your business name online via the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website. Here you can find a complete list of all the necessary forms and a video tutorial on how to fill in and submit them. Submit forms online using a PDF upload portal (some can be electronically signed and others need to be printed, signed, and scanned).
Alternatively, North Carolina’s government website offers “creations wizard”, an interactive tool assisting in the submission of formation documents.
How Costly is it to Register a North Carolina Business Name?
You can reserve your North Carolina business name for 120 days before official registration for $30. Filing Articles of Incorporation costs $125, and if you wish to trademark your name, this costs between $225 and $400. Expediting your documents costs between $100 and $200. See North Carolina’s extensive list of forms and fees for more information.
Why Registering a Business Name in North Carolina is Important
It is very important to register your business name with the North Carolina government. Failure to do so could make you liable for fees or penalties. Your business name needs to be unique because other parties could sue for unfair competition or trade name infringement.
Registering a unique business name allows you to build a powerful brand, making your business more credible and attractive to customers. It also allows you to open a bank account to manage your finances and kick-start your journey to success.
Support for Registering a Business Name in North Carolina
The North Carolina government website offers resources to help register your business name in North Carolina. This includes the “creations wizard”, which helps you submit creation documents quickly and effortlessly.
You can also contact the North Carolina Secretary of State at 919-814-5400 or by emailing [email protected].
North Carolina Business Name Search Summary
Creating and registering your business name is a crucial part of your new business venture. Our business name generators help to make this process effortless.
Once you are 100% satisfied with your new business name, you can register it with the state of North California. This provides legal protection and presents your new business as a legitimate and attractive entity.
Curious about starting a business elsewhere in the USA? Our range of business name search pages explains how registration differs in other states.