Step by Step Guide to Registering Your Business Name in Pennsylvania
Having a successful business in Pennsylvania requires that you take the extra step of registering your business name. Registering your business name will prevent others from using your name and ensure that you have the legal rights for that particular name. Fortunately, the process to register your business name in Pennsylvania is relatively easy and can be completed fairly quickly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Choose a Name
Your business name must be unique, distinguishable from other businesses, and not be falsely descriptive of your business purpose. You can check the availability of your desired name by using the business name search tool at the Corporation Bureau of the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website.
Step 2: File Your Assumed Name Certificate
Before you can run a business with a name which is not the legal name of the business owner, you must file an Assumed Name Certificate. This is important even if you are the sole proprietor, as the legal name of the business and the owner can be different. The Assumed Name Certificate may be filed online or by mail. You may need to file for multiple names if you are operating in multiple locations or multiple business categories.
Step 3: Name Reservation
If you want to reserve your business name for up to 120 days, you can file for a name reservation. To do this, you must complete the Name Reservation Application and include a filing fee of $70. You can submit the application online or by mail.
Step 4: Register Your Business Name
Once you’ve completed the filing process, you can officially register your business name with the Pennsylvania Department of State. You’ll need to submit the necessary forms which are available on the Department of State’s website, as well as a filing fee of $70.
Step 5: Comply with Pennsylvania’s Business Requirements
Even after you’ve registered your business name, you still need to comply with Pennsylvania’s business regulations for your industry. This may include requirement for licenses and permits as well as filing additional documents. Make sure that you familiarize yourself with these requirements before you begin your business activities.
By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to successfully register your business name in Pennsylvania. However, you should consult with a lawyer or an accountant if you have any questions or need help navigating the process.
A Comprehensive Guide to Business Name Registration in Pennsylvania
Starting a business in Pennsylvania can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. One of the first things you’ll need to do is register a business name. The process for naming your business depends on the type of business you’re wanting to form. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive guide to business name registration in Pennsylvania.
The first step in registering your business name is to decide what type of business you’re creating. Pennsylvania has several different types of business forms to choose from such as sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC and corporation. Each structure has its own set of rules and requirements so it’s important to research and understand their differences before making a decision.
You can search the Pennsylvania Department of State’s online database to see if your desired name is already registered. If the name you choose is available, the next step is to fill out the necessary paperwork and file it with the state. Depending on the type of business you’re registering, the documents will differ. For example, if you’re forming a corporation, you’ll need to file Articles of Incorporation.
In addition to registering your business name, you also need to register it with the IRS.
Smooth Sailing with Business Name Registration in Pennsylvania
Are you considering registering your business in the state of Pennsylvania? If so, you’ll be happy to know that the process is relatively straightforward and can be completed with ease. Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to get your business name registered in PA:
- Choose your business name. The name you choose must be unique to Pennsylvania, so make sure you do your research and review available names to ensure that your business name stands out.
- Get a fictitious name statement (FNS) form. This form will officially register your business name with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
- Fill out the FNS Form. This form will consist of detailed information, including a description of the nature of the business, the business’s partners, and the state of incorporation.
- Mail in the FNS Form. Mail the form and the non-refundable payment of $70 to the PA Secretary of the Commonwealth.
- Wait for authorization. It usually takes 4-6 weeks for the state to approve your business name and issue the FNS certificate.
By taking a few simple steps, registering your business name in the state of Pennsylvania is a smooth sailing process.
