Business names missouri

Keep in mind that a Missouri name filing does not prevent a national entity from another state from pursuing legal action against you due to the fact that your title is the same. Hence, you should be very careful about business title selection and you should do sufficient research.

The last thing you want is to register your business name and find out another competitor or company already has a website with your name! Use our domain check below to instantly check availability. Enter your business name to check domain availability. Both LLCs and corporations can be an S corp. Ask us a question, tell us how we're doing, or share your experiences.

Join the conversation in our Comment Section. The next big decision you will need to make is whether your legal business name will be your brand name or if your brand will be separate from your legal name. Legal Name: Your business's legal name is the name that is listed on your formation documents. Brand Name: Your business's brand name is the name that you use to market your company. It is the name that clients see and use.

Informal businesses , like sole proprietors and general partnerships, are almost always required to use their surname s as their legal name. The business's legal name is also the brand name. If you are forming an LLC or corporation, you will register your legal name when you file your formation documents. The business has a legal name that is different than its brand name. If you choose to have a different brand name, you will need to file a DBA.

To learn more, visit our easy step-by-step Missouri DBA guide. The business has a legal name and multiple brand names. If you choose to have multiple brand names, you will need to file for DBAs. When a business uses a name besides their legal name, they create a DBA doing business as. A DBA is sometimes called an assumed name, fictitious name, or trade name.

You should start by brainstorming at least potential names. The goal is to come up with at least a few catchy and creative names. Then, we will help you make sure the names you chose are available.

Use a timer and then stop when it goes off. If you need more time, take a minute break and start your timer again. The more you brainstorm, the better. A DBA allows you to operate your business under a different name without doing a full legal name change. In Missouri, a DBA doing business as is known as a fictitious name. Most sole proprietors and general partnerships need to use a DBA to create a brand other than their surnames.

After you get your business name, your next step is getting a unique logo. Get your unique logo using our free Logo Maker. The final step for naming your business is making sure it's unique at the state and federal levels and as a domain name. The first and most important search is on the Missouri business name database. Search requirements can vary depending on your business structure. You can search the business name database on the Missouri Secretary of State website to see if your desired LLC name is available.

This tool is also useful if you decide to register a DBA, or fictitious name, for your company. Not sure what to name your business? You can search the business name database on the Missouri Secretary of State website to see if your desired corporation name is available. Form an LLC. Missouri Registered Agent. How to Name a Business in Missouri. Missouri Business Search. How to Register a Business Name in Missouri. Missouri Business License.

Missouri Labor Law Posters. Missouri Articles of Organization. Follow Missouri Naming Guidelines We recommend making sure your business name meets guidelines before completing your business name search. Restricted words e. Bank, Attorney, University may require additional paperwork and a licensed individual, such as a doctor or lawyer, to be part of your LLC. Do a Missouri Business Name Search Be sure to conduct a thorough search before completing your paperwork to avoid rejection.

Search Available Domain Names Another important consideration to make when selecting a business name is whether or not your desired web domain name is available. Different registration rules apply to each kind of partnership in Missouri.

General partnerships only have to register with the state if they are operating under a fictitious name. Limited partnerships are required to file a Certificate of Limited Partnership with the state. Missouri also offers limited liability limited partnerships, which are required to file a Certificate of Limited Partnership. When it comes to tax, the rules of partnerships are similar to sole proprietors.

Partnerships in Missouri do not have to file any tax returns because their business income and personal income are inseparable. Registering as a corporation in Missouri is more costly and takes longer, but the benefits are clear.

A corporation will allow you to dip into a wider capital pool and protect your personal assets in the event of a business failure. Corporations need to pay business tax. Registering as a corporation begins with filing articles of incorporation with the Corporations Division.

This includes providing your business name, as well as the details of your registered agent, registered office, share authorization, Missouri incorporator, duration, purpose, directors, and effective date. Incorporate as an LLC in Missouri if you operate in a high-risk industry and want more power over the operational activity of your company.

LLCs afford better profit distribution among members as well as few ownership restrictions. Registering as an LLC in Missouri is very similar to registering as a corporation. Missouri requires all registered LLCs to adopt a written operating agreement. Missouri law also requires all registered LLCs to include the words "Limited Liability Company" in its full or abbreviated forms if registering as this type of entity.

You can apply for a Missouri business license online or in person at your local city or county clerk's office. Missouri business licensing fees vary according to your type of business and location. Missouri LLC registration has two costs. Missouri does not require a statewide business license. However, you may need to obtain specific licenses and permits from the city and local government, depending on your location and business type.