Massachusetts Business Naming Requirements
To use a different name to conduct business, the business owner(s) must file for a Massachusetts business certificate name — also commonly referred to as a doing business as (DBA) name. Both LLCs and corporations require unique names in Massachusetts that must follow certain naming requirements: Massachusetts LLC Naming Requirements and Massachusetts Corporation Naming Requirements.
Securing a unique name for your business in Massachusetts is a critical first step towards creating an identity that stands out. Start by conducting a preliminary search of the corporate and name reservation databases to ensure that your proposed business name isn’t already in use by another entity. Make use of additional online resources like MassTaxConnect, which provides vital information about registering a small business and obtaining a tax ID number in Massachusetts.
Business Name Availability
Before registering a business name in Massachusetts, it’s essential to ensure that the name is available and not already in use by another entity by using the Massachusetts Business Entity Search tool.
DBAs in Massachusetts
Under Chapter 110, Section 5 of Massachusetts General Laws, a DBA is required to be registered by any person who conducts business in the state under any name other than their personal name, whether individually or a partnership.
Register your business online with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) to file and pay taxes.
Each business entity that is registered with the Massachusetts Secretary of State must use a unique name found by using the state’s Business Entity Database. The names of sole proprietorships or general partnerships are registered with the Town Clerk’s office where the business is located.
Registering a Business Name
How to Apply for a Business Name
To apply and register for a business name, you must visit the appropriate local government division, fill out the required paperwork, pay a small filing fee, and wait.
Options for Registering a Business Name
There are four ways to register a business name:
- Register as an entity with your state
- Apply for a DBA
- Register as a domain name
- Trademark the business name
When you choose the perfect name, you need to protect it. The name of the business is a critical element for any company, especially a new startup.
Considerations and Costs
To register a business name will take into consideration business structure, geographical area, and protection needed. The three ways to register a name are:
- Form an entity
- Register an assumed name or DBA
- Register a federal trademark
Start by researching your industry and use a business name generator. Make sure to consult professionals to avoid legal issues.
The cost of registering a business name in Michigan is $50 for filing plus an annual $25 fee.
To give your business a new name, you will need to complete required paperwork and pay applicable fees again under the new name.