Ohio Business Name Search (LLC Lookup) – Guide
Ensuring Your Ohio 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 Ohio.
This page will guide you on how to check the availability of your LLC name and ensure it can be used.
Ohio LLC Name Verification
When you submit your paperwork to establish an LLC in Ohio, your filing could be rejected if the name you choose is already in use or does not adhere to state naming regulations.
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How to Search the Ohio Business Entity Name Database
You can utilize the business entity search to compare your business name with the currently registered entities in Ohio.
✎ Note:
This tool is often referred to as either the Ohio Business Name Search or the Ohio Business Entity Search. Both terms describe the same website and provide the same search results.
Visit the Ohio Business Entity Search page
Ohio Secretary of State: Business 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 Ohio 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.
Ohio Secretary of State Contact Information
You can contact the Ohio Secretary of State to check if your LLC name is available.
While this service might not be available in every state, Ohio representatives can guide you through the process of using the Ohio 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 Business Services Division at 614-466-3910, Monday through Friday, between 8 am to 5 pm Eastern Time.
Ohio LLC Name Requirements
As per Section 1706.07 of the Ohio LLC Act, there are several rules and requirements you should be aware of when naming an Ohio business entity.
Comma Usage
You are not required to use a comma in your LLC name. Both formats are acceptable:
- Cedar Ridge LLC
- Cedar Ridge, LLC
Permissible Designators
Your LLC name must end with one of the following designators:
- LLC
- L.L.C.
- Limited Liability Company
- Ltd
- Ltd.
- Limited
✎ 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.
- Co-op
- Incorporated
- Corporation
- Cooperative
Restricted Words in Ohio LLC Names
Your Ohio 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 Ohio Business Name Is Distinguishable
To ensure your LLC name is acceptable, you must compare it with existing names using the Ohio Secretary of State Business 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 "Buckeye Ventures LLC" is your desired name, it will not be acceptable if you find any of the following names in the Ohio Business Name Search:
- Buckeye Ventures, Inc.
- Buckeye Ventures, Corp.
- Buckeye Ventures, L.L.C.
Filler Words
Adding filler words such as "the", "a", "an", "and"m or "&" does not make a name distinguishable. For instance, "Cedar Grove LLC" will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- The Cedar Grove LLC
- A Cedar Grove Inc.
- Cedar & Grove 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 "Buckeyes Baskets LLC", it will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- Buckeyes Baskets LLC
- Buckeye Basket Inc.
- Buckeye's Baskets, L.L.C.
Punctuation, Symbols, Spaces
In Ohio, adding or removing punctuation, symbols, and spaces does not create distinguishability.
For example, if your desired LLC name is "Lakeview Gardens LLC", it won’t be available if any of the following are found:
- Lakeview-Gardens Inc.
- LakeviewGardens Corp
- Lakeview * Gardens, L.L.C.
Abbreviation vs Complete Name or Word
In Ohio, using an abbreviation rather than the complete word (or vice versa) does not create distinguishability.
For example, if your desired LLC name is "Buckeye State Bakery LLC", it won’t be available if any of the following are found:
- OH Buckeye State Bakery LLC
- OH Buckeye State Bakeries Inc.
- Buckeye State Bakery, Ltd. Liability Co.
Business Search Tips for Abbreviations
When using an abbreviation or a term with a commonly used abbreviation, be sure to search for both the abbreviation and the full word in the Business Entity Search to ensure availability.
For example: If you want to use "Cleveland" in your business name, also search for "CLE" to check for similar names. Or if you are considering using the abbreviation "OH" for Ohio, make sure to search for "Ohio" as well.
Ways to Make Your Ohio Business Name Distinguishable
The following variations between business names can create distinguishability in Ohio:
Numerals or Spelled Out Numbers
Using numerals (like 7 or 202) instead of spelling out the number (like "seven" or "two hundred and two") creates distinguishability. The same applies to using Roman numerals (like "VII" for seven and "CCII" for 202).
For example, if your desired LLC name is "50 Acres LLC" and there is already a business in Ohio named 50 Acres, you could use one of these variations:
- Fifty Acres LLC
- 50 Acres LLC
Changing Word Order
Altering the sequence of words in a business name creates distinguishability. For instance, River Valley Farms LLC is distinguishable from Valley River Farms LLC in Ohio.
Different Spellings
Altering the spelling of a word in your business name can make it distinct. This includes phonetic or alternative spellings.
For example, if your desired name is Quick Start LLC but QuickStart Inc. is already taken in Ohio, you could consider:
- Kwik Start LLC
- Quik Start LLC
- Qwick Start LLC
Foreign Language
Using the same word(s) in a different language creates a distinguishable name.
For example, if "Ohio Gardens LLC" is taken, you could use:
- Jardins d'Ohio LLC (French)
- Jardines de Ohio LLC (Spanish)
- Ohiö Gardens LLC (German)
Suffixes, Derivations, or Deviations
Different versions of the same root word can sometimes create distinguishability, though this can be subjective and dependent on the LLC examiner’s review. It might be easier to choose a distinctly unique name.
For instance, if "Buckeye Innovations LLC" is taken, you might consider alternatives like:
- Buckeye Innovators LLC
- Buckeye Innovate LLC
- Buckeye Innovative LLC
Alternatively, you could choose a more unique name such as Buckeye Visionary Labs LLC.
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What If My Business Name Is Rejected?
If you submit your Ohio 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 Ohio?
No, a name reservation isn't required to form an LLC in Ohio. It’s an unnecessary step and a waste of money. You can simply file your LLC’s Articles of Organization with your desired LLC name.
Does Ohio require an LLC in the name?
Yes. Your Ohio LLC name must include one of the allowable designators at the end. The most commonly used designators are:
- LLC
- Limited Liability Company
- Ltd.
Does my Ohio LLC need a DBA?
No, you're not required to file a DBA ("Doing Business As") for your business entity in Ohio. However, if you want your LLC to operate under a different name than its true and legal name (the name on your Articles of Organization), you need to file a Trade Name or Fictitious Name Registration online or by mail with the Secretary of State. The fee for this registration is $39. For more information, refer to the Secretary of State Name Guide.
If you file a Trade Name for your Ohio LLC, it must also be distinguishable from existing business names in the state. There is no limit to the number of Fictitious Names or Trade Names an LLC can have.
When would my LLC use a DBA?
If you form an LLC named Amish Barn Carriage Tours LLC but wish to operate under a more memorable name like Amish Tours, you would need to file a Trade Name Registration to use the name Amish Tours. Without this registration, you can only use the legal name Amish Barn Carriage Tours LLC.
If you want to conduct business under the name Amish Barn Carriage Tours without the "LLC" suffix, you will need to file a Fictitious Name Registration for that name.
How do I get a business domain name?
Once you've decided on a business name, it's wise to 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 entity name must be unique in the records of the Secretary of State. No two businesses can operate with the same name. For instance, if you want to name your LLC Bullfrog Landscapers LLC but there is already a business named Bullfrog Landscapers, Inc. in Ohio, your desired LLC name is not distinguishable and cannot be used.
How do I come up with a business name?
Choosing a business name is crucial for branding and recognition. Your Ohio LLC name can be your brand name, but it doesn’t have to be (refer to the FAQ about DBAs above). Here are some tips to help you come up with a business name:
- Start by listing the features and attributes you want your company to be associated with.
- Brainstorm as many names as you can without initially editing or analyzing them.
- Review the list and note down any variations or new ideas.
- Take a break and revisit the list later. Refine your choices based on your reflections.
- Read the list out loud and seek feedback from friends, business partners, or family if desired.
- Repeat the process: refine ideas, write down new variations, and review them again.
- The best name often emerges naturally through this process. If you’re still unsure, try this technique: Close your eyes, count to 10, and choose a name when you open your eyes. This can help tap into your subconscious preferences and make a decision.
Can I use the name of another Ohio entity?
No, you cannot use a name already used by another Ohio business, regardless of the entity type—corporation, LLC, or any other. You cannot use another business’s 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 by filing an Amendment form with the Secretary of State. Detailed instructions on how to change an LLC name in Ohio are available from the Secretary of State.
How to start an LLC in Ohio?
To start an LLC in Ohio, follow these steps:
- Choose an LLC name and verify its availability.
- Select an Ohio Registered Agent.
- File the Ohio LLC Articles 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 Ohio.