How Do I Reserve a Business Name in Alabama?

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Reserving a Business Name in Alabama

To reserve a business name in Alabama, file the Reservation of a Business Entity Name (Form SCC631) with the Alabama Secretary of State. This holds the name for up to 120 days at a cost of $10.

Registering a Business Name in Alabama

To register a business name in Alabama:

  1. Check name availability
  2. Search for a domain and federal trademark
  3. Submit a DBA application if preferred name unavailable

Choosing an LLC Name in Alabama

When choosing an LLC name in Alabama:

  1. Check Secretary of State website for availability
  2. Check name regulations – must contain "Limited Liability Company" or LLC/L.L.C.

  • To check if a business name is available:

    1. Search the Secretary of State’s database
    2. If taken, choose a different unique name
    3. You can still register under a DBA

  • How much does it cost to reserve a business name in Alabama? The minimum cost is $25.

  • To start an LLC right away, file paperwork with the Secretary of State. Legal services can handle formation documents for free. Name reservations are transferable in Alabama.

  • To reserve an LLC name in Alabama submit a name reservation request form to the Secretary of State by mail, online or in person for a $25 filing fee. An LLC name reservation in Alabama is valid for one year, after which it expires.

  • To register a business name, file for a trade name or “Doing Business As” with the Secretary of State. This gives your business an independent name from your personal/company name.

  • A name reservation protects the preferred entity name while preparing formation documents. Reservations may be renewable depending on entity type.

  • To change an LLC name in Alabama, file an amendment with the Secretary of State. The name must contain "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" to comply with regulations.

  • When reserving a name, check the Business Finder tool to see if it exists. Then file a Name Reservation Request or proceed with the Certificate of Formation.

  • The reserved name cannot be too similar to existing business names. Appropriate company identifiers must be included.

  • To reserve a name, file a “Company Name Reservation” application. The Secretary of State will hold the name for 120 days, after which it must be renewed.

  • Use the business entity search to check your name against registered businesses. This is also called the Business Name Search.

  • If not ready to form the LLC, file the Name Reservation Form to hold a name for 120 days for $10. Benefits include availability, flexibility and time to organize.

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