Massachusetts Business Name Search (LLC Lookup) – Guide
Ensuring Your Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.
This page will guide you on how to check the availability of your LLC name and ensure it can be used.
Massachusetts LLC Name Verification
When you submit your paperwork to establish an LLC in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts Business Entity Name Database
You can utilize the business entity search to compare your business name with the currently registered entities in Massachusetts.
✎ Note:
This tool is often referred to as either the Massachusetts Business Name Search or the Massachusetts Business Entity Search. Both terms describe the same website and provide the same search results.
Massachusetts provides a specific search tool for checking existing Business Name Reservations. However, since most people don't use this reservation process, the tool is generally not considered very useful.
Visit the Massachusetts Corporate Records Search page
Massachusetts Secretary of State: Business Entity Search
It's simple: enter your desired LLC name in the search bar.
Keep the "Search by" option set to "Entity Name" and adjust the "Search type" to "Full Text".
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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 Massachusetts 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.
Massachusetts Secretary of State Contact Information
You can contact the Massachusetts Secretary of State to check if your LLC name is available.
While this service might not be available in every state, Massachusetts representatives can guide you through the process of using the Massachusetts 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 Corporations Division at 617-727-9640, Monday through Friday, between 9 am to 5 pm Eastern Time.
Massachusetts LLC Name Requirements
As per Section 156C-3 of the Massachusetts LLC Act, there are several rules and requirements you should be aware of when naming a Massachusetts business entity.
Comma Usage
You are not required to use a comma in your LLC name. Both formats are acceptable:
- Beacon Books LLC
- Beacon Books, LLC
Permissible Designators
Your LLC name must end with one of the following designators:
- LLC
- L.L.C.
- LC
- L.C.
- Limited 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
- Incorporated
Restricted Words in Massachusetts LLC Names
Your Massachusetts 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.
Ensuring Your Massachusetts Business Name Is Distinguishable
To ensure your LLC name is acceptable, you must compare it with existing names using the Massachusetts Secretary of State Business Entity 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 "Chickadee Chimneys LLC" is your desired name, it will not be acceptable if you find any of the following names in the Massachusetts Business Name Search:
- Chickadee Chimneys Inc.
- Chickadee Chimneys Corporation
- Chickadee Chimneys L.L.C.
Filler Words
Adding filler words such as "the", "a", "an", "and"m or "&" does not make a name distinguishable. For instance, "Cranberry Farms LLC" will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- The Cranberry Farms LLC
- A Cranberry Farm Inc.
- Cranberry & Farms L.L.C.
- Cranberry and Farms Corp
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 "Pattis Terriers LLC", it will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- Pattis Terriers LLC
- Patti's Terrier Inc.
- Patti Terrier, L.L.C.
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What If My Business Name Is Rejected?
If you submit your Massachusetts Certificate 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 Massachusetts?
No, a name reservation isn't required to form an LLC in Massachusetts. It's an unnecessary step and a waste of money. You can simply file your LLC’s Certificate of Organization with your desired LLC name. Note that business name reservations in Massachusetts are only valid for 60 days, so it’s more practical to file your Certificate of Organization when you’re ready.
Does Massachusetts require an LLC in the name?
Yes, your Massachusetts LLC name must include one of the allowable designators at the end. The most commonly used designators are:
- LLC
- Limited Liability Company
Does my Massachusetts LLC need a DBA?
No, you're not required to file a DBA ("Doing Business As") for your business entity in Massachusetts. However, if you want your LLC to operate under a name different from its legal name (the name on your Certificate of Organization), you must file a DBA with the city or town clerk where your business operates. You can find the appropriate office here: City and Town Websites.
If you file a DBA for your Massachusetts LLC, it must be distinguishable from existing business names in the state. There is no limit to the number of DBAs an LLC can have.
When would my LLC use a DBA?
For example, if you form an LLC named Boston Harbor Cruise Lines LLC but want to operate under a friendlier name like Boston Cruises, you would need to file a DBA to use Boston Cruises. Without filing a DBA, you can only use your legal entity name Boston Harbor Cruise Lines LLC. Similarly, if you want to operate under the name Boston Harbor Cruise Lines without “LLC” in the name, you would need to file a DBA for Boston Harbor Cruise Lines.
How do I get a business domain name?
Once you've decided on a business name, check if the corresponding domain name is available before forming your LLC. You can search for available domain names using services like GoDaddy.
What does “distinguishability” mean?
Distinguishability means that each business name must be unique and not identical to any existing names in the Secretary of State's records. If a business already exists with your desired LLC name, you cannot register your LLC with that name. For example, if you want to form an LLC called Mayflower Landscapers LLC, but a business named Mayflower Landscapers, Inc. already exists in another town, you cannot use that name because it is not distinguishable.
How do I come up with a business name?
Choosing a business name is vital for branding and recognition. Here are some tips for coming up with a name for your Massachusetts LLC:
- List the features and values you want your company to represent.
- Generate as many business names as possible without editing them initially.
- Review your list and consider variations.
- Set the list aside and revisit it later. You might come up with new ideas during this time.
- Read the list out loud and get feedback from others.
- Repeat the process of reviewing and refining names. Trust your instincts to choose the best one.
If you're still undecided, try closing your eyes and counting to 10. When you open your eyes, make a decision. This technique might help you tap into your subconscious choice.
Can I use the name of another Massachusetts entity?
No, you cannot use the same name as another Massachusetts business, regardless of the entity type. This includes corporations, LLCs, and other entities. You cannot use a name even if the entity is in "delinquent" status. However, if a business is dissolved, the name may become available for use.
How do I change my LLC name?
You can change your LLC's name later by filing an Amendment form with the Secretary of State. Detailed instructions on how to change an LLC name in Massachusetts are available.
How to start an LLC in Massachusetts?
To start an LLC in Massachusetts, follow these steps:
- Choose an LLC name and ensure it's available.
- Select a Massachusetts Registered Agent.
- File the Massachusetts 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.
- Check if you need a business or sales tax license in Massachusetts.