A name registration is the name you use when registering your business with the state.
Starts at $0 + state fees and only takes 5-10 minutes
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Choosing a memorable business name is an important first step when starting a company. Thankfully, new entrepreneurs can protect their desired business names by registering them with the state as an LLC or corporation. Registering a fictitious name or getting a trademark for it are also viable options. This guide will explore name registration, including what it is and the basics of how it works.
Name registration refers to the process of choosing a business name and using it to register a business with the state government. In most states, that means registering the name with the Secretary of State’s office (or similar state agency) while creating a registered business with one of these forms:
Note: The exact name of the form may vary from one state to another. Small business owners would be wise to confirm the unique formation requirements in their area.
When an entrepreneur files these forms, their chosen name is automatically registered if it’s available. Typically, the name will also include a designator like “LLC” or “Inc.” to designate what type of entity it is. For example, an LLC might be registered as “Fernandez Accounting LLC” and not just “Fernandez Accounting.”
Most states also provide a searchable database of registered names. Prudent business owners will use this database to verify whether their desired name is available before registering. It’s also possible to reserve a business name in advance of filing formation documents.
While name registration through business formation is the default process, there are some alternative options to consider.
Some companies decide they want to use another name in addition to their registered name. For example, suppose “Antonio’s Bakery Inc.” is a successful bakery business. If the business owner decides to branch out into catering, “Antonio’s Bakery Inc.” might want to give its catering business a different name.
Antonio would then register the company’s fictitious name, Keesha’s Catering, as a “doing business as,” “DBA,” or “trade name.” In some states, Antonio would register this name with the state, but in other states, it’s done at the county level.
Unregistered businesses like sole proprietorships and general partnerships don’t have to register their business names with the Secretary of State, so they don’t have a registered name by default. If these business owners want to register their company name, a DBA registration is a common option. DBA registration may or may not be required for these businesses if they intend to operate under a name that isn’t the owner’s legal name; some states require trade name or DBA registration, and others don’t.
If an out-of-state company that is not registered to do business in a certain state decides that it might want to in the future, it can register its name in that state. This reserves the right to use the name in the future.
State name protections only go so far; they don’t prevent businesses in other states from using a particular name. If a business owner wants to prevent anyone else from using their name in the same commercial field, they might consider trademark registration. Though state-level trademarks are available, it may be best to register with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. A federally registered trademark identifies a company’s goods or services nationwide, provides legal protection for the brand, and helps the business guard against counterfeiting and fraud.
Today’s business owners may also want a domain name with the same name or DBA name as their business. A domain name is needed for a web hosting company to host a website. For example, the above example, “Keesha’s Catering,” might register a domain name under www.keeshascatering.com. Registering a domain name that matches the company name makes it easier for customers to find the brand online; it builds brand recognition.
For those that need help, ZenBusiness offers domain name registration service.
Registering the name of a legal entity makes it official in the state where it conducts business. Formal name registration prevents other companies in the state from using the same name.
Starting a business can feel overwhelming. That’s where ZenBusiness can help. Their business formation services, including name reservation, LLC registration, corporation registration, and more, all make it easy to start a business. They handle the red tape so entrepreneurs can focus on what they love: growing their own business.
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Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. For specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.
Written by ZenBusiness Editorial Team
The ZenBusiness Editorial Team has more than 20 years of combined small business publishing experience and has helped over 850,000 entrepreneurs launch and grow their companies. The team’s writers and business formation experts are dedicated to providing accurate, practical, and trustworthy guidance so business owners can make confident decisions.
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