Florida LLC Name Search – How to Name Your LLC


 Steve Goldstein
 Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Forming an LLC requires a different business name, which must be unique and adheres to the guidelines. The great thing is Florida’s Secretary of State page includes a name availability checker. Check out LLC Name Search to learn more.

Meanwhile, if you’re interested in learning more about starting a Florida LLC or forming an LLC in general, you can check out How to Start an LLC .

How to Name an LLC in Florida

Time needed:  5 minutes

There are guidelines to follow in doing a Florida LLC name search forming an LLC. To learn more, check out LLC Naming Guidelines or read Foreign LLC Application for Registration if you’re planning to register a foreign LLC.

  1. Check Name Availability

    Search the Business Entity Records in Florida’s Official Secretary of State page to check if your chosen business name is available. You may also try typing your trademark, business, or domain name on any search engine to generate businesses with similar names and to ensure your trademark is unique and meets the state’s requirements.

    Check out How to File a DBA to learn more about registering a DBA or trademark. For social media pages, use Social Searcher to avoid using similar page names.

  2. Check Domain Availability

    If your business name is still available, you must register for a domain name using Namecheap , Google Workspace , or other domain name sites. So customers can easily find your business over the Internet. Use the Kinsta app to manage your domains efficiently.

  3. File Name Reservation

    A Name Reservation Certificate is required along with a Certificate of Formation. You can reserve a name online, by mail, or in person with a $35 filing fee (plus tax for online).

    File your Certificate of Formation and Name Reservation online on the Secretary of State Online Services page of Florida. You may also download the pdf file of the Name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to R.A. Gray Building 500 South Bronough Street Tallahassee, Florida 32399.

Guidelines to Follow in Naming LLC

  • Use a business name with the abbreviation “LLC” or the phrase “Limited Liability Company.”
  • Your decided business name must not coincide with any existing government entity. Otherwise, you might have to face legal lawsuits when filing your LLC.
  • Use the LLC name availability checker to ensure your business name is unique.
  • Get a license first if you plan on using restricted words to avoid any complications.

Note that you must put adequate effort into naming your LLC because this name will be with your business for a long time. Making your LLC name unique is vital as it would prevent people from confusing your business with others, not to mention it would be easier for them to recall your business, products, or services.

How Do I Reserve an LLC Name in Florida

To reserve an LLC name in Florida you need to submit a name reservation request form to the Florida Secretary of State by mail or online by paying a filing fee of $25.

Choosing a name for your LLC is a crucial first step in establishing your brand identity and setting the foundation for your business. Your LLC name is not only the face of your company but also plays a significant role in how you are perceived by customers, investors, and competitors. By reserving your desired name, you not only prevent others from using it but also secure your right to operate under that name.

To reserve an LLC name in Florida, you must first conduct a business name search on the Division of Corporations website to ensure that your desired name is available and complies with the state’s naming requirements. Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing entities in the state and include the words “Limited Liability Company, ” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” at the end of the name.

Once you have confirmed the availability of your desired name, you can proceed with reserving it for a period of 120 days by filing an online application with the Florida Division of Corporations. The application can be completed in a few simple steps and requires basic information about your LLC, such as the name, address, and contact information of the registered agent.

There is a nominal fee associated with reserving an LLC name in Florida, which can be paid online using a credit card. Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive a certificate of name reservation from the Division of Corporations, which serves as proof that your desired name is reserved for your LLC.

It is important to note that reserving an LLC name does not automatically grant you the right to operate under that name. To officially use the reserved name for your business, you must file Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations within the 120-day reservation period. The Articles of Organization form can also be completed online and requires basic information about your LLC, such as the name, address, and purpose of the business.

By following these simple steps, you can reserve an LLC name in Florida and take the first step towards establishing your business entity. Remember that choosing a strong and memorable name is essential for creating a lasting impression on your target audience and setting your business up for success. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-chosen name – it can be the key to attracting customers, building brand recognition, and standing out in a competitive market.

In Conclusion

LLC names are important as it is the main identity of your business. While naming your LLC make sure to choose the one that suits the nature of your business. Follow the naming guidelines before you start filing your LLC name

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