NAME YOUR CORPORATION

In general, most states require that a corporation’s name contain one of the following corporate indicators:

• Incorporated
• Inc.
• Corporation
• Corp.

Prohibited Words and Phrases

Additionally, most states prohibit the use of a corporate name that is “substantially similar” to that of a corporate name already in existence or dissolved within the past 2 years. Also, the use of obscenities, profanity, or a name that may be considered “deceptive” is prohibited in most states.

Words Requiring Special Processing

Some states may impose additional restrictions for naming your corporation where the name implies certain activities that are regulated by state licensing boards. While these names are not prohibited from use, additional steps are required before they may be used in a corporate name. Such words may include: ‘Bank’, Insurance’, ‘Trust’, ‘Accounting’, and ‘Medical’.

Protecting a Corporate Name (Trademark Protection)

Generally, incorporating a business under a specific name will only prevent another individual from forming a corporation with the same name in the same state. Thus, it is possible that an individual may incorporate with your corporate name in another state. In some states, it is also possible that an individual may form an LLC or sole proprietorship in the SAME state as your corporation.

Securing A Domain Name

After naming your corporation, it is CRITICAL that you register that name as a domain name as soon as possible. In addition, you should consider registering that domain name AND its similar variants and different extensions such as domain.com, my-domain.com, domain.net, domain.biz, etc. This critical step will help protect your company’s online identity.