Georgia LLC Name Search & Entity Lookup

Choosing a name for your limited liability company in Georgia is an important step in starting your business.

You can easily perform a Georgia LLC name search online to ensure your desired name is available. This quick lookup helps you avoid potential legal issues and aids in establishing your brand identity in the state.

This guide walks you through the LLC name search process, making it simple and stress-free to secure a name that sets your business up for success.

Should You Conduct a Georgia Entity Search or an LLC Lookup?

When starting an LLC in Georgia, check if your desired name is available. You can do this by conducting a Georgia entity search or an LLC lookup.

Why conduct a Georgia entity search?

• Check Name Availability: It ensures that your business name is unique and not already in use by another company.
• Identify Restricted Names: Some names may be restricted or require special permissions. Knowing this can save you time and effort.
• Reserve a Business Name: If you find a name you like, you can often reserve it, preventing others from using it while you file.

What about an LLC lookup?

• Confirm LLC Status: If you are looking to start a limited liability company (LLC), an LLC lookup helps verify if that entity exists.
• Find Details: You can find important details about existing LLCs, such as their status and registered agent.
• File Correctly: Knowing the LLC names already in use helps you avoid filing fees for rejected applications due to name conflicts.

Georgia LLC Name Search (step-by-step)

Follow these steps to check if your desired LLC name is available in Georgia.

Step 1: Visit the Georgia Corporations Division website

Start by going to the official website of the Georgia Secretary of State at ecorp.sos.ga.gov. The Corporations Division handles all business entity registrations, including LLCs.

Step 2: Navigate to the “Business Search” section

Once on the Georgia Corporations Division site, look for the “Business Search” option. This section allows users to search for registered businesses and check name availability. Click on this link to proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Enter the desired LLC name in the search field

Now, input the name you want for your LLC into the search field. Make sure to type it accurately. You can filter your search by different criteria including “Starts With,” “Contains,” and “Exact Match.”

Georgia Business Search tool lets you search by other categories apart from your LLC name such as “Control Number,” “Registered Agent Name,” and “Office Name.”

After selecting your criteria, click the “Search” button to run the query. This action will generate a list of businesses that meet your search parameters.

Step 4: Review the search results for name availability

Look through the search results. If you get an alert that shows “No data found,” your desired LLC name may be available for registration.

However, if you see a list of names matching or similar to your entered name, your desired LLC name is unavailable for registration.

You will get LLC lookup information including business name, control number, business type, principal office address, registered/designated agent name, and status.

Clicking on the Blue “Business Name” takes you to a detailed profile page containing:

• NAICS Code
• Date of Formation / Registration Date
• Registered Agent Information
• Last Annual Registration Year
• Filing History
• Name History

Critical LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in Georgia

When naming your LLC in Georgia, it is important to comply with specific rules to ensure your business name meets legal and professional standards.

1. Unique Name

Your LLC name must be distinct from any existing names registered in Georgia. For example, if “Peach Tree Logistics, LLC” is already registered, you cannot name your LLC “Peach Tree Logistics Group, LLC” as it could create confusion.

2. Inclusion of “LLC”

The name must include a designation that identifies it as a Limited Liability Company. For instance, “Southern Real Estate LLC,” “Southern Real Estate, L.L.C.,” or “Southern Real Estate Limited Liability Company” are all acceptable formats.

3. Prohibited Words

Names must not include words that suggest the LLC is a government agency. For example, names like “Georgia State Treasury LLC” or “FBI Consulting LLC” are prohibited.

4. Restricted Words

Certain words require special approvals to be included in your LLC name. For instance, using “Bank” in “Pioneer Bank LLC” requires permission from financial regulators, while “Insurance” in “Global Insurance Partners LLC” would need approval from insurance authorities.

Words like “University” in “Summit University LLC” may require accreditation or educational oversight approval.

5. No Implicit Purpose

The name should accurately reflect the business’s intended purpose as stated in its Articles of Organization.

For example, naming your company “Luxury Auto Dealers LLC” would be misleading if your business only sells car accessories.

6. Misleading Terms

Your LLC name must not mislead the public about the nature of your business. For example, using “Health Solutions LLC” for a business that sells gym equipment could imply medical services and would be inappropriate.

7. Offensive Language

Any name that includes vulgar, offensive, or obscene language is strictly prohibited. For instance, a name like “Crude Expressions LLC” would likely be rejected due to its unprofessional nature.

What Words are not allowed in my Georgia LLC name?

There are certain words you cannot use when choosing a name for your Georgia LLC.

• FBI: Avoid this term—it suggests a link to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which could confuse people.
• Treasury: Using this term might imply you’re connected to the U.S. or state treasury, which isn’t allowed unless true.
• State Department: This name could falsely signal government affiliation, so it’s off-limits.
• Bank: Names like “Secure Bank LLC” require approval because they suggest financial services that are strictly regulated.
• Credit Union: Reserved for licensed financial institutions, so don’t use it unless you meet the legal requirements.
• Trust: Implies you offer fiduciary services, which are regulated. You’ll need special permissions for terms like “Global Trust LLC.”
• Attorney: Using this term suggests legal services. For example, “Smith Attorney LLC” is prohibited unless you’re a licensed attorney.
• Doctor: Implies healthcare services, so you’ll need licensing. A name like “Doctor Care LLC” would be misleading without medical credentials.
• Engineer: Suggests professional engineering services. Without certification, a name like “Elite Engineers LLC” won’t be approved.
• University: Requires state approval and accreditation. A name like “Atlanta University LLC” would be flagged if not a real educational institution.
• College: Similar to “University,” it’s reserved for approved higher education providers.
• Academy: Suggests formal training or education. Approval is needed for names like “Premier Academy LLC.”
• Corporation: Reserved for corporations, not LLCs. A name like “Tech Corporation LLC” is misleading and won’t pass.
• Incorporated: Similarly, it doesn’t align with the LLC structure. Avoid names like “Incorporated Solutions LLC.”
• Insurance: Implies offering insurance services. Names like “Smart Insurance LLC” need approval from the insurance department.
• Assurance: Same as “Insurance,” it’s regulated and requires permissions for names like “Premium Assurance LLC.”
• Charity Fund: Suggests nonprofit activities. If you’re not a registered charity, names like “Helping Hands Charity LLC” won’t be allowed.
• Health Department: This term implies a connection to government health services, which isn’t allowed unless officially approved.
• Offensive Language: Vulgar or disrespectful names are outright banned to maintain professionalism.

How do I File a Georgia LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)

To reserve your LLC name in Georgia, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Name Availability

Visit the Georgia Secretary of State’s Business Name Search Tool to verify that your desired name is unique and complies with Georgia’s naming rules.

Ensure the name includes “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” and does not contain restricted or prohibited terms.

Step 2: Access the Name Reservation Form

Go to the Georgia Secretary of State’s website to find the Name Reservation Request form.

Decide whether to file online via Georgia’s Secretary of State’s online services page, which is faster, or by mail, which may take longer to process.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application

Complete the application form with the required information. This includes the LLC name you want to reserve, your contact details such as name and address, and an alternative name in case your first choice is unavailable.

Step 4: Pay the Filing Fee

Submit the payment of $25 for online applications or $35 for mail submissions. Online payments can be made using credit or debit cards, while mailed forms require payment by check or money order.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

If filing online, complete the process through the Georgia Secretary of State’s website and wait for confirmation.

For mail filings, send the completed form along with payment to the Office of Secretary of State, Corporations Division, Name Reservation Request, 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE, Suite 313 West Tower, Atlanta, Georgia 30334.

Step 6: Await Processing

Online applications are processed within 7 business days while mailed submissions may take 15 business days. You will receive confirmation once the name reservation is approved.

Step 7: Use the Reserved Name

Your reserved name will be held for 30 days from the approval date. Use this period to file your Articles of Organization and officially register your LLC in Georgia.

Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations

When starting a business in Georgia, it’s important to know how to name various entities. This includes understanding how to file for a DBA, conducting trade name and trademark searches, and ensuring your domain name is available.

Filing for Doing Business As (DBA) in Georgia

If you want to operate your business under a name different from your registered business name, you must file for a Doing Business As (DBA) in Georgia. This process allows you to legally use another name without forming a new entity.

To file a DBA, visit your local county clerk’s office. You will typically need to complete a form and pay a fee, which can vary by county.

Once approved, your DBA registration allows you to brand your business and engage with customers under that name. Remember to renew your DBA registration periodically, as local requirements may vary.

Trade Names and Trademark Search

Before finalizing your business name or DBA, you should conduct a trade name search and a trademark search. These searches help ensure that your chosen name is not already in use or legally protected.

You can perform a trade name search through the Georgia Secretary of State’s website. This will show if there are existing businesses using the same name.

Additionally, a trademark search can be done through the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) site. This ensures that your desired name doesn’t infringe on an existing trademark.

Check Domain Name Availability

Securing an online presence is essential for your business. Checking domain name availability is an important step in this process. You want your business name to match your website’s domain as closely as possible.

You can use various domain registration sites to see if your preferred name or similar variants are available. Choose a domain that is easy to remember and type.

If your desired name isn’t available, consider using different extensions like .net or .biz, or add a relevant keyword. A strong, matching domain name can enhance your brand’s credibility and visibility online.

Final Thoughts – Is it Worth it to Search and Reserve My Business in Georgia?

Yes, searching and reserving your business name in Georgia is worth it. An LLC name search ensures your desired name is unique and meets the state’s requirements, saving time and avoiding potential rejections during LLC formation.

Reserving your name protects it for 30 days, giving you peace of mind while finalizing other aspects of your business.

However, if you’re ready to file your Articles of Organization immediately, reserving the name may be unnecessary. For most entrepreneurs, this small investment of time and money is a practical step to secure their brand and avoid delays.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What steps are involved in searching for a business license in Georgia?

To search for a business license in Georgia, start by visiting the local county or city government website where your business will operate. You can also check the Georgia Secretary of State’s site for certain licenses.

How much does it cost to reserve your LLC name in Georgia?

It costs $25 to reserve your LLC name in Georgia. You can pay this fee online when you file for a name reservation.

How long does a Georgia LLC Name Reservation last?

A Georgia LLC name reservation lasts for 30 days. You can extend this reservation by reapplying and paying the fee again.

Does my Georgia LLC need a DBA?

If you plan to operate under a name different from your registered LLC name, you need a DBA (Doing Business As). Registering a DBA involves filing with the appropriate county office.

How long does it take to set up an LLC in Georgia?

Setting up an LLC in Georgia typically takes 7 business days if filed online and 15 business days if filed by mail. Expedited options are available for faster processing.