Connecticut Business Name Search (LLC Lookup) – Guide
Ensuring Your Connecticut LLC Name Is Available
A unique business name is key for branding, but it can be difficult to navigate the various rules for business names in Connecticut.
This page will guide you on how to check the availability of your LLC name and ensure it can be used.
Connecticut LLC Name Verification
When you submit your paperwork to establish an LLC in Connecticut, your filing could be rejected if the name you choose is already in use or does not adhere to state naming regulations.
How to Search the Connecticut Business Entity Name Database
You can utilize the business entity search to compare your business name with the currently registered entities in Connecticut.
✎ Note:
This tool is often referred to as either the Connecticut Business Name Search or the Connecticut Business Entity Search. Both terms describe the same website and provide the same search results.
Visit the Connecticut Business Entity Search page
Connecticut Secretary of State: Business Records Search
It's simple: enter your desired LLC name in the search bar.
Search Tips:
- Exclude terms like "LLC", "L.L.C.", "Limited Liability Company", and punctuation marks (commas, periods, apostrophes) from your search.
- You can use either uppercase or lowercase letters in your search.
★ Tip:
To ensure thoroughness, start with a search for the main part of your desired name. For instance, if you want "Sunset Ventures LLC", first search for "Sunset Ventures" and then "Sunset" to cover all possible variations.
How to Understand Connecticut LLC Search Results
If your search results show names that do not match yours exactly, your LLC name is likely available.
For example, if "Sunset Ventures LLC" yields results like "Sunset Management" and "Sunset LLC", your name should be available.
What If My Desired Name Is Not Available?
If the name you want is already in use, you will need to choose an alternative name or modify your desired name.
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Connecticut Secretary of State Contact Information
You can contact the Connecticut Secretary of State to check if your LLC name is available.
While this service might not be available in every state, Connecticut representatives can guide you through the process of using the Connecticut Business Name Search to see if your name is free. They can not guarantee that your name will be approved, but they can provide useful information.
Call the LLC Department at 860-509-6002, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 am to 4 pm Pacific Time.
Connecticut LLC Name Requirements
As per Section 32-243k of the Connecticut LLC Act, there are several rules and requirements you should be aware of when naming a Connecticut business entity.
Comma Usage
You are not required to use a comma in your LLC name. Both formats are acceptable:
- Nutmeg Innovations LLC
- Nutmeg Innovations, LLC
Permissible Designators
Your LLC name must end with one of the following designators:
- LLC
- L.L.C.
- Ltd. Liability Co.
- Limited Liability Co.
- Ltd. Liability Company
- Limited Liability Company
✎ Note:
The term "LLC" is the most commonly used.
Restricted Designators
Your LLC name cannot include terms that imply it is another type of business entity, such as:
- Inc.
- Corp.
- Corporation
- Cooperative
Restricted Words in Connecticut LLC Names
Your Connecticut LLC name cannot include words or abbreviations that are legally restricted.
For instance, you cannot name your LLC in a way that suggests it is a bank, a government agency, or any other entity that might mislead the public.
Additionally, you cannot use terms reserved for licensed professionals. These terms can differ by state but often include accountants, architects, attorneys, dentists, and engineers.
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Ensuring Your Connecticut Business Name Is Distinguishable
To ensure your LLC name is acceptable, you must compare it with existing names using the Connecticut Secretary of State Business Records Search.
If your name is not unique, you will need to come up with a different or modified name.
Rules for Distinguishability
Designators
Merely changing the designator (the suffix of the name) does not make a name unique. For example, if "Connecticut Shoreline Realty LLC" is your desired name, it will not be acceptable if you find any of the following names in the Connecticut Business Name Search:
- Connecticut Shoreline Realty, Inc.
- Connecticut Shoreline Realty, Corp.
Filler Words
Adding filler words such as "the", "a", "an", "and"m or "&" does not make a name distinguishable. For instance, "Hartford Ventures LLC" will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- The Hartford Ventures LLC
- A Hartford Ventures Inc.
- Hartford & Ventures L.L.C.
Plural or Singular Words and Possessive Words
Changing a word to its plural or possessive form does not make a name unique.
If your desired LLC name is "Lakeside Cafes LLC", it will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- Lakeside Cafes LLC
- Lakeside Café’s Inc.
- Lakeside Cafe L.L.C.
What If My Business Name Is Rejected?
If you submit your Connecticut Articles of Organization and your chosen business name is not available, do not worry.
The state will inform you of the rejection and provide reasons. You will then need to resubmit with a new or adjusted name.
Do I need a name reservation in Connecticut?
No, a name reservation is not required to form an LLC in Connecticut. You can file your LLC's Certificate of Organization with your chosen name. A name reservation is considered an unnecessary step and is not recommended.
Does Connecticut require an LLC in the name?
Yes, Connecticut requires that your LLC name include one of the following designators:
- LLC
- Limited Liability Company
- Ltd. Liability Co.
Does my Connecticut LLC need a DBA?
No, a DBA (Doing Business As) is not required in Connecticut. However, if you want your LLC to operate under a different name from its legal name, you need to file a Trade Name Registration with the town clerk where your business operates. Fees vary by town and registration location.
When would my LLC use a DBA?
For example, if you establish an LLC named White Oak Tours and Services LLC but prefer to use a more appealing name like White Oak Tours, you need to file a Trade Name Registration. Without this, you can only use the legal name White Oak Tours and Services LLC. Similarly, if you want to operate under White Oak Tours and Services without the "LLC" suffix, you will need to file a Trade Name Registration for that name.
How do I get a business domain name?
Once you’ve decided on a business name, it's important to check if the corresponding domain name is available. Use services like GoDaddy to search for domain names.
What does "distinguishability" mean?
Distinguishability means that each business name must be unique on the Secretary of State's records. No two businesses can operate under the same name. For example, if you want to name your LLC Robin Landscapers LLC, but there's already a business named Robin Landscapers, Inc., your name isn't distinguishable. You must choose a different name.
How do I come up with a business name?
Choosing a business name is crucial for branding. Begin by listing the features and attributes of your company. Generate a list of potential names without evaluating them initially. Review and refine the list, seeking feedback from others. The ideal name often stands out naturally. If you’re uncertain, a decision-making trick is to close your eyes, count to 10, and choose the name that feels right when you open your eyes.
Can I use the name of another Connecticut entity?
No, you cannot use the same name as another Connecticut business, regardless of the entity type. Even if the entity is in “delinquent” status, you must choose a different name. However, if the business entity is dissolved, the name may be available for use since the dissolved entity no longer has rights to it.
How do I change my LLC name?
To change your LLC's name, file an Amendment form with the Secretary of State. Detailed instructions for changing an LLC name in Connecticut are available.
How to start an LLC in Connecticut?
To start an LLC in Connecticut, follow these steps:
- Choose an LLC name and confirm its availability.
- Select a Connecticut Registered Agent.
- File the Connecticut LLC Certificate of Organization.
- Complete and sign an LLC Operating Agreement.
- Obtain a Tax ID Number (EIN) from the IRS.
- Open an LLC bank account.
- Determine if you need a business or sales tax license in Connecticut.