Having a fantastic business name is vital to your Vermont business’ success. Once you have selected a suitable name, you need to check its availability so that you can register it with the Vermont Secretary of State.
This Vermont business name search guide explains how to make a unique business name, check its availability, and register it with the Vermont Secretary of State’s office. Read on to find out more.
Generate Business Name Ideas
Preparation for Vermont Business Name Search
The first step before you can check the availability and register your Vermont business name is to create the perfect name. Here are some tips to create an original and inspiring Vermont business name.
- Employ rhythm to create a memorable name.
- Use unique keywords to increase the chances of your name being available.
- Create a name that is relevant to your business and informative to customers.
Another top tip is to use our business name generators to find fantastic naming suggestions for a vast range of industries.
How to Search for Available Names in Vermont
Before registration, you must check if your Vermont business name is available. Conducting a Google search for your proposed name will tell you if your name is already being used or is similar to any names being used.
The Vermont Secretary of State’s website has an online database of all the registered business names in Vermont. You can search this database to see if your proposed name is already in use or if similar-sounding business names are in use.
To secure an available website for your business, why not switch on the instant domain name checker when using the Wyoming business name generator.
How to Register a Business Name in Vermont
To register your business name in Vermont, you must create a user account with Vermont’s Online Business Service Center. From here, you can select which type of business entity you are starting and file the necessary formation documents, including an assumed business name form.
The preferred method is online filing, which typically takes less than 1 business day. If you wish to file by mail, this can take 7-10 business days and incurs an additional fee.
Policies and Procedures for Registering a Business Name in Vermont
The policies and procedures for registering your business name in Vermont depend upon the structure you are following.
The legal name of a sole proprietorship/general partnership will be the owner(s) name(s).
The legal name of a corporation/LLC must include the appropriate suffixes, e.g. Ltd or Inc.
You can operate under an assumed name or “doing business as” (DBA) name, for fewer naming restrictions.
However, certain naming restrictions still apply. For example, your business name must be “distinguishable in the records”, not contain offensive language, and avoid language that could affiliate your business with existing governmental departments or agencies.
Vermont Corporations & Business Services
Below are the contact details for the Vermont Corporations & Business Services.
| Website | http://sos.vermont.gov |
| Telephone | 802-828-2386 |
| Email Address | [email protected] |
| Address | 128 State Street, Montpelier |
| Opening Hours | 7.45 am – 4.30 pm, Monday – Friday |
How to Register a Business Name in Vermont Online Portal
If your business name is approved, you can register it online via the Vermont Secretary of State’s website.
You can create a login by entering your personal details and creating a password with the Online Business Service Center. From here, you will be guided towards the appropriate formation documents.
You can electronically sign and upload your documents for submission. Online filing avoids the $20 fee that applies to documents sent in via the mail.
How Costly is it to Register a Business Name in Vermont?
There are various fees involved in registering a business name in Vermont.
Filing formation documents, such as Articles of Authority, Incorporation and Organization cost $125. Filing an Assumed Business Name costs $50 and a further $40 for renewal. It is worth noting that there is an additional $20 if you file your documents by mail as opposed to online.
Why Registering a Business Name in Vermont is Important
Registering your business name in Vermont has many benefits. For example, it allows you to open a bank account, which is necessary to manage your finances. It also adds credibility because customers will identify your business as properly registered.
You may have a legal obligation to register your business name in Vermont, especially if you are operating an LLC, corporation, cooperative, or partnership. Doing so gives your business limited liability protection and avoids your facing potential legal action.
Support for Registering a Business Name in Vermont
It is recommended that you don’t invest in advertising, websites or signage until you have received confirmation that your business name has been successfully registered.
If you need support when registering your business name in Vermont, you can contact the Secretary of State’s office at 802-828-2386 or by emailing [email protected]. You can also schedule a free evening telephone consultation.
Registering a Vermont Business Name Summary
With our Vermont Business Name Search guide, you have all the information you need to create a business name, check its availability, and register it.
Once you have chosen the perfect business name using our handy business name generators, register it online with the Vermont Secretary of State. Having a registered business name makes you less vulnerable to personal liability and adds credibility to your business.
If you are contemplating registering a business in a state other than Vermont, our list of business name search pages can help.