One of the first things business owners need is to reserve their Arizona LLC name. This process can seem confusing because there are a few steps involved.
This article will walk you through every step of the process and explain everything you need to know about reserving a name for your Arizona business. We'll also provide some tips on choosing the best Arizona LLC name for your business.
Step 1: Choose a name for your Arizona LLC
Arizona business entity has to follow specific naming guidelines when choosing its name.
A limited liability company (LLC) must have the words "limited liability company" or the abbreviation "LLC" included in its name.
The name must also be unlike any other business registered with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC).
Your Arizona business name can't contain words that the Arizona Corporation Commission restricts unless you have a license or certificate to use them.
For example, "university" is a restricted word and can't be used without approval from ACC.
It cannot contain certain words such as Bank, University, Insurance Company, etc. unless you have authorization from a state agency to use them.
The limited liability company's name can't imply that it's organized for some purpose other than what is contained in the articles of organization (a document filed with ACC).
Step 2: Perform business entity search
Business name search is the process of checking whether your new entity name already exists. This is an important step for two reasons:
- Your new business entity needs to have a unique name in order to be registered with the state. It cannot be identical or confusingly similar to another company's name.
- You should know if there are any potential trademark issues with your desired name.
The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) provides an online search tool that you can use to check if a business name is available. The search process is simple: enter the desired company name and click "Search."
If the company is already registered, the Arizona corporation commission website will provide information on the company's registered agent and principal address.
Social media platforms and web domain names can also help you find out whether your business name is already being used by an LLC or another corporation.
When searching the Arizona corporation commission's website, keep in mind that it will not provide information on pending LLC applications or reserved names.
For this reason, you should reserve a name before submitting an application to register your new company.
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Step 3: Perform a trademark search
An Arizona entity name is not protected from use by another entity unless it is also registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
The USPTO will search its records for a similar trade name and notify you of any potential conflicts.
It is therefore essential to perform a trademark search before selecting trade names. You can do this by visiting the USPTO website and searching for trade names.
The results of the search will show any registered trademarks that are similar to your desired name.
You can also hire a trademark attorney to conduct a more comprehensive search.
This is recommended if you are unsure whether or not your preferred name is available for use. A trademark attorney will also be able to advise you on whether or not the name can be registered.
Step 4: Reserve LLC name with the state
Business name reservation is a process that is done through the state in which your LLC will be registered. Name reservation protects your business name from being taken by another company.
The reservation processing time usually takes about two weeks, and you can reserve a company name for up to 120 days.
There is a $10 filing fee associated with this process, and you will need to provide some basic information about your company, including the name and contact information.
There are a few ways to reserve a company name with the Arizona corporation commission. The online filing provides the opportunity to speed up the process by opting for expedited processing at an additional $35. Mail filings are sent to ACC Corporate Filings Section 1300 W. Washington St. Phoenix, Arizona 85007.
Make sure to include the payment information in your Name Reservation Form.
FAQs
How Long Can You Reserve a Business Name Before You File for the Business in Arizona?
Business name reservation request allows companies to exclusive rights on that name for 120 days before filing formation documents. Arizona Corporation Commission doesn't let the renewal of the business name reservation after those 120 expire.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Business Name in Arizona?
Name reservation for an Arizona business is $10, but you have to pay a $35 fee if you file online, simultaneously speeding up the process. Name reservations can also be made by mail.
How Do I Add a DBA to an LLC in Arizona?
Arizona business entity can add a DBA by registering with the Arizona Corporation Commission through a Trade Name Registration Application. You can find this application form on the ACC website.
The application must include the business name, the principal place of business, and a list of all trade names used by the business. There is a $10 filing fee for adding a DBA to an LLC in Arizona. After submitting the application, the ACC will mail you a Certificate of Trade Name Registration.
Can I Reserve My Business Name in Arizona in Person?
Name reservation through a paper application is possible but keep in mind that the process might take longer, and it is also more expensive than through the online system.
In order to complete a paper form, you will have to download the application from Arizona website or obtain it in person at any of the Secretary of State's offices located in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, or Yuma. Once filled, the paper application can be sent to Corporations Division, along with the administrative fees.
How to Reserve a Business Name in Arizona...
It is important to reserve your business name before investing in any marketing materials or building a website.
If you don't get an Arizona corporation (or LLC) and secure the right web domain, it might be too late when someone else does it.
LegalZoom can help with this process for a reasonable fee if you need assistance with name reservations.
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