Are you starting a business in Maryland? One of the first steps is choosing the perfect name for your company. But before you get too attached to a business name, you’ll want to make sure it’s available by running a business entity search.
Conducting a simple search can save you time and hassle down the road. Read on to learn why a business entity search is so important, how to perform one in Maryland, and what to do once you’ve found an available name.
A business entity search allows you to see if the company name you want is already taken in Maryland. This prevents issues that could come up if you file under a name that’s already registered with the state.
Here are three key reasons to complete a business entity search before starting your LLC in Maryland:
In short, completing a business entity search gives you confidence that the perfect business name you choose is free for you to register.
If you fail to do a business entity search, you could find yourself facing serious legal problems in the future. Here are some of the issues that can come up if your registered business name ends up overlapping with another entity’s:
Before you search for names, it helps to understand Maryland’s business naming requirements. Here are a few key guidelines:
Make sure any name you consider complies with Maryland’s naming policies. This will streamline your business entity search process.
Ready to search for your chosen business name? Follow these steps to look up availability using Maryland’s business entity search tool:
The search tool can be accessed directly through the link above. Make sure you’re on the correct page before proceeding. The search page has a simple interface with a search bar, drop-down filters, and buttons to run your search. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with where key options are located.
Type the exact business name you want to search into the search bar. Be sure to include the LLC designation in your search terms. For the most accurate results, stick to official LLC names at this stage – there is an option to look up DBAs/trade names separately.
Use the drop-down menu to choose either “Begins With” or “Contains.”
Choose based on how widely or narrowly you want to search. Keeping it narrow at first is recommended.
Once ready, click the “Search” button to run your business entity search. Give it a few seconds to fully populate results.
Search results will display on the page. Scroll through and review each one closely and in detail. Expand any names that look similar to yours for further analysis.
Pay attention to names that are:
Even minor similarities could potentially cause issues down the road. When in doubt, make note of any questionable names.
If your search returns an overwhelming number of results, try adjusting your filters to narrow it down.
Repeating your search with new parameters can reveal if your name is available. Don’t hesitate to modify until your results are manageable.
If your name doesn’t appear at all in the Maryland business entity search results, congratulations – it’s very likely available! But for total certainty, consider using the official name availability verification process. This involves submitting your name for confirmation directly through the state. There is a small fee, but it provides official documentation proving your name is free to register.
Follow these tips to ensure your search gives an accurate overview of name availability in Maryland:
Found an available business name through your Maryland entity search? Here’s how to lock it down:
You can reserve your chosen business name with the state of Maryland for up to 120 days for a $25 fee. This prevents anyone else from registering that name before you formally file formation documents. Complete the name reservation application directly through Maryland’s Business Express portal.
While reserving your name protects it at the state level, registering it federally provides broader protection. Applying for a registered trademark prevents other businesses nationwide from using your name or similar variations. The USPTO trademark application process involves legal fees and some time, but offers invaluable protection.
Your business name availability search probably considered “.com” domains. But secure any other domain extensions that make sense too. Buying available domains like .net, .biz, .store, and more prevents cybersquatting and strengthens your online brand presence.
A simple business entity search is a quick and easy way to ensure the perfect business name is free for you to register in Maryland. Following naming guidelines, searching thoughtfully, and taking strategic follow-up steps will set your new LLC up for branding success. Conduct your business entity search today to get started on the right foot.
Doing a search minimizes the risk of choosing a name that is already taken. This avoids legal issues and wasted time changing names later.
Use the state’s free Business Entity Search tool to search company names and ensure the one you want is available.
LLC names in Maryland must include a designation like “Limited Liability Company” and can’t be identical to another registered business name.
If your desired name is registered, try adding unique words or abbreviations until you find an available alternative to register.
This portion of our website is for informational purposes only. Tailor Brands is not a law firm, and none of the information on this website constitutes or is intended to convey legal advice. All statements, opinions, recommendations, and conclusions are solely the expression of the author and provided on an as-is basis. Accordingly, Tailor Brands is not responsible for the information and/or its accuracy or completeness. It also does not indicate any affiliation between Tailor Brands and any other brands, services or logos.
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