Structuring Success > LLC Name

Guidelines and Steps for Choosing Your LLC Name

Choosing the right name for your LLC is a crucial step. This lesson will guide you through the process of selecting a unique and compliant name for your LLC in California.

Select a Unique and Compliant Name

Make sure your chosen name is unique and distinguishable from other active California businesses. Use California's business name database to verify availability. By searching your businesses name (Search example: Test LLC). The name must include the words "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." at the end.

CA Business Search

Guidelines for Choosing an LLC Name

  • Distinctiveness: The name should be unique and not easily confused with other business names.
  • Content Requirements: It must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C."
  • Avoid Restricted Words: Certain words are prohibited in LLC names. Avoid using:
    • Bank
    • Trust
    • Trustee
    • Incorporated
    • Inc.
    • Corp.
    • Insurer
    • Insurance company
    • Government affiliation
    • Professional corporation
  • Avoid Misleading Terms: Avoid terms that could imply a different type of business or professional certification. For example:
    • Agency
    • Agent
    • Services
    • Broker

Example Names

  • Good Examples: Coastal Breeze LLC, Green Valley Limited Liability Company, Silicon Solutions L.L.C.
  • Bad Examples: John Smith Insurance Inc., Trustworthy Bank LLC, California Government Services L.L.C.

Verify Name Availability

Verify the chosen name's availability using California's business name database to ensure it is not already in use.

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