There is no need to enter phrases like “LLC, Corp, or other naming designations as the database will generate results for every type of entity. Show
The North Carolina Secretary of State search will generate results for both current and inactive businesses that are related to the search query entered. Registered AgentsThe registered agent filter generates results for registered agents that have filed entities in the state of North Carolina.
Assumed business nameThe assumed business name generates naming results for both business names and owners and has search filters for county and date. North Carolina name search statusIf a business is struggling to think of a good business name, one way to generate ideas is to look through the search results list to see if any expired names could fit the business. For example, if someone wanted to open up a new Pizza restaurant, they could enter “Pizza” into the search bar and generate a list of ideas that are available based on the business status results: The status description will give business owners ideas of potential name based on how they are classified:
If there is a business entity name that is inactive that is of interest it is recommended to call the North Carolina Secretary of State’s office in Raleigh at 919-814-5400. Trademark searchOne thing to remember is that even though the desired North Carolina business name may be available, it could have a registered trademark. Performing a trademark search through the Trademark Electronic Search System before selecting a business name could prevent headaches in the future. Next steps1. Check if the domain name is available
2. Check if the social media name is availableIn the digital age, it is essential to have a solid social media presence. Customers will often check sites like Yelp and Google Reviews to gauge what others think about a business. Some other tips on social media for an North Carolina business entity:
3. Register North Carolina business entityAfter selecting a business name, businesses can register their incorporation with the North Carolina Secretary of State office. Another option is to file with companies like Northwest Registered Agent, Incfile, or ZenBusiness, which can take care of the filings for as little as $0 plus state filing fees. For further step-by-step instructions on how to file your LLC check out this North Carolina LLC Guide. North Carolina business entity name reservationIf a business is not ready to register their entity but has a name picked out, they can register a business name with the Secretary of State’s office. The name will be reserved for 120 days and it costs $30 to file. 4. Register TAX ID/EIN with the IRSAn EIN is a nine-digit number that identifies a business for tax purposes. Think of it as a social security number for businesses. Filing your EIN for a limited liability company (LLC) is straightforward and can be done online. North Carolina corporations can register for a Tax ID for $79 with Swyft Filings. 5. Create a logoSimilar to selecting a good business name, businesses with a great logo impress customers, help distinguish themselves from the competition, and create a positive visual memory of your unique business services for customers. With the emergence of freelance marketplaces, it is easy to get a logo done on Fiverr in 24 hours or less. 6. Write a business planWriting a business plan can help organize business owners’ ideas and create a pathway for businesses to follow. Having a professionally written business plan also impresses investors and helps create accountability. Liveplan.com is a business plan software that can help make the process easy as they have over 500 sample plans to choose from. Businesses that form partnerships should consider having a professional operating agreement. 7. Open a business bank accountHaving a business bank account is required for businesses as it helps keep business and personal finances separate. It also helps build business credibility in the event business loans are needed to grow the business in the future. Businesses must have a business mailing address in order to open a business bank account and are not allowed to use a po box as their primary mailing address. Lili and Novo are online banks that specialize in working with freelancers and entrepreneurs. We recommend NovoBuilt for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. SEE HOW 8. Setup an email accountGoogle Workspace can help set up an @yourcompany email address for as little as $6 per month. Plan on running your business wellGoogle Workspace helps with email addresses, team collaboration, productivity, and more. GET STARTED 9. Register a trademarkOne of the easiest ways to file a trademark is through LegalZoom. They have options to file by themselves or pay an additional fee to have an attorney take care of the filings. North Carolina business structure naming considerationsWhen selecting a North Carolina business name, it is important to understand the different naming requirements for each of the different entity types. Sole proprietorships and partnershipsIn North Carolina, sole proprietorships do not have to file with the corporation’s division to begin business operations. Sole Proprietorships typically operate under a person’s name, so there is no need to perform a business name search in most situations. Like Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships are relatively easy to file and generally include all partners’ last names (ex: Smith, Jones, and Lasalle). LLCsLLCs are separate legal entities that separate owners’ business interests, debts, and liabilities from personal responsibilities. Names for LLCs are required to be filed with the Secretary of State and must be unique. A few reminders when naming LLCs:
CorporationsCorporations, like LLCs, are separate legal entities that require filing with the corporation commission. Corporations are fairly complex and typically used by large companies looking to issue stock and attract investors. Corporation naming considerations:
FAQsIf a North Carolina business has been revoked can they be reinstated? Yes, there is an expedited requalification option for businesses that are looking to get reinstated quickly. How do I look up my NC Secretary of State number? Businesses can find their NC SOS number by calling 919-814-5400 or emailing [email protected] Does North Carolina require a business license? There isn’t a Secretary of State enforcement on business licenses, however, different cities may require them depending on which industry the business operates in. Business link North Carolina (BLNC) can provide further information on potential licenses and permits a business may need. Is a registered agent required to file an LLC in the state of North Carolina? A registered agent is someone that is designated to receive official papers for your LLC, LLP, or corporation. individuals are able to act as their own registered agent as long as a physical address (p.o. box is not allowed) is used in the state where your business entity is formed. One of the main benefits of using a third-party registered agent company is that it adds a layer of privacy between the business and the general population. The registered agent company receives all documents on a business’s behalf and can mail them to you privately. Northwest Registered Agent offers free mail forwarding and has a great reputation in the industry. Why should I file a trademark? How do I file? A trademark gives entrepreneurs legal protections over their brand. As your North Carolina business grows, competitors tend to pop up to try and compete against you in the marketplace. A trademark sends a message to competitors that may be looking into your niche that you mean business. Trademarks also appreciate as your business grows and increases brand recognition. If you are ever hoping to sell your business down the line, having a solid trademark can add to your valuation. If your business has a physical product that you are looking to sell on sites like Amazon, there are special features businesses can access with a registered trademark, which helps prevent infringement on your products.
Should I file a DBA? A DBA (doing business as), or trade name, is a fictitious business name that companies operate under for business outside of the formal LLC name. DBA names are filed with the North Carolina Secretary of State or can be filed with companies like Incfile.com. Here are a couple of benefits of DBAs:
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