Looking up and Verifying a DC LLC
To look up a DC LLC, use the D.C. Business Name Search guide. It is recommended to use Northwest Registered Agent to register your business name for $29 when forming your LLC. You can also search the Washington D.C. Business Entity Search and Domain Name Search. If the name is available, you have the option to register it.
Ensure your chosen business name is available by:
- Checking if it’s trademarked
- Researching if it’s used by another company
- Searching state business name databases
Avoid using an identical name as this could lead to lawsuits, losing brand identity and reputation, as well as financial penalties. Consult professionals to determine if a name with similarities has restrictions.
Approval of your paperwork and fees can be expected within days to weeks. Remember that not updating websites or stationery can cause confusion with the new name.
Maintaining Good Standing and Understanding the Naming Process
To verify that your business is in good standing in DC, visit https://corp.dcra.dc.gov and request a certificate showing your business is legally registered and authorized. The report must be filed every two years by April 1 with the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs and can be done online, by mail, or in person.
When coming up with a business name in Washington DC, it’s important to follow the naming conventions set by the Washington, DC, Secretary of State. Your business name must include a designator such as "Limited Liability Company" or its abbreviation.
Additional Business Name Considerations
You can apply for a trademark for your business once you’ve confirmed and secured your name, with associated costs around $225 to $400 plus any attorney fees, and a renewal fee every 10 years.
A UBI (Unified Business Identifier) is a 16-digit number issued by Washington State Business License Services. If you misplace your UBI, you can find your company using the online Washington Corporations Search.
For information about a business entity in any state, perform a search on the Secretary of State’s website where the corporation is registered. To change the physical address of a business, you may need to file a new Business License Application, and a completed Duplicate Request Form with a fee of $6.60 is required to get a copy of your Basic Business License.
Access Comic Character
Access is a character owned jointly by DC Comics and Marvel Comics. He first appeared in "DC Versus Marvel," enabling crossovers between the two companies.