Business Name Search in Georgia | A Comprehensive Guide


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
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Conduct a Business Name Search in Georgia

Conducting a business name search in Georgia is an essential step for entrepreneurs and business owners in starting an LLC in Georgia. A business name search helps you identify whether a desired business name is already in use or if it’s unique and available for registration. Additionally, it allows you to gather information on existing businesses, such as their registration details, legal status, and contact information.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you conduct a business name search in Georgia. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Conduct a Business Name Search in Georgia

What is a Business Name Search?

Business name search in Georgia is an essential step for entrepreneurs who want to start a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This search helps them to ensure that the name they have chosen is unique, available, and compliant with state laws. The process of searching for a business name in Georgia involves using the Georgia business registration system, which allows users to search for registered business names and check for name availability.

Additionally, entrepreneurs also need to check that their chosen name does not infringe on any existing trademarks or copyrights. Conducting a thorough name search helps to prevent legal and branding issues as well as build a strong brand image. In Georgia, taking the time to properly search for a business name or trademark can help entrepreneurs to set their businesses up for future success. We reviewed some of the Trademark Services in Georgia that will help you with your business name search.

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How to Conduct a Business Name Search in Georgia

Before knowing why a business name is necessary, you should now conduct a business name search in Georgia. Even in any different business structure, conducting a business name search takes time. However, with the help of the information listed in this article, you will get an easier option in finalizing your business name.

Step 1: Access the Business Entity Search Tool

The Georgia Secretary of State website has a Business Center Search Tool to help you choose a name for your business. This tool can help you determine the uniqueness and availability of a name. Also, keeping a list of backup names is helpful so you can choose a last name after a few repetitions. You can also check out the Georgia Corporations Division to access the entity search tool.

Step 2: Perform the Search

On the Georgia website, check the availability of the proposed business name. The search result will display information about similar businesses if the desired business name is already used. While searching, you can exclude using identifiers such as “LLC” to get more results from different business structures operating under the same name. Conduct extensive research using the provided filters before filing the name with the government.

If you want to register a Trademark in Georgia, you can also conduct a trademark search on the United States Trademark Database. Check with the Patent and Trademark Office to see if the chosen name is already in use by someone else.

Choosing a Business Name in Georgia

You now conducted a business search in Georgia. With what you have searched and listed, you will choose the most suitable business name for your Georgia business. When searching for a potential business name, follow these steps:

  1. Brainstorm Ideas: Begin by brainstorming a list of potential names that convey your business’s goals and values, and appeal to your target audience. Consider names that are easy to pronounce, spell, and remember.
  2. Be Descriptive But Not Limiting: Choose a name that gives an idea of what your business does or offers without being too specific or limiting future growth. For example, avoid using a specific location or product type in the name if you plan to expand your business or diversify your offerings.
  3. Check for Availability: Use the Georgia Secretary of State’s business name search tool available at the link provided to check if your desired name is already in use by another registered business entity. Remember that the name should be distinguishable from others to avoid potential legal disputes and confusion.
  4. Consider Domain Name Availability: If you plan to have an online presence, check if the desired domain name is available for your website. Ideally, your domain name should match or closely resemble your business name for consistency and easy online recognition.
  5. Conduct a Trademark Search: To avoid infringing on any existing trademarks or intellectual property rights, conduct a thorough trademark search using the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s (USPTO) Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS). This will help you identify any potential conflicts with registered or pending trademarks. You can access the Georgia Trademark Search for more detailed information about trademark searches.
  6. Verify Name Requirements: Ensure your chosen name meets the specific naming requirements for your business type, such as including words like “LLC,” “Corp,” or “Ltd.,” if applicable. Refer to your Georgia’s business naming guidelines for specific rules and restrictions.

By following these steps and considering the various factors in choosing a business name, you can create a distinct, memorable, and legally compliant name.

Meantime, In Georgia, if you do not wish to file your business right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your business name for 30 days. You must file a name reservation application in the Georgia Secretary of State by mail or online filing to keep the name.

The Georgia Secretary of State will review your application and approve the name if it is available and not too similar to any other existing business name. If the name is approved, you will receive a reservation number and an approval letter. When filing the Articles of Organization in Georgia, to form your LLC, you must include the reservation number.

After reserving an LLC name, you must still form the LLC by filing the Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State. The LLC name, contact information, the names of the LLC’s members, and the name and address of the LLC’s Registered Agent must all be included in the Articles of Organization.

File your Articles of Organization online on the Georgia Secretary of State Online Services page. You may also download the offline file of the name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to Georgia Secretary of State – Corporations Division,, 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE,, Suite 313 West Tower,, Atlanta, Georgia 30334..

If you are planning to start an LLC in Georgia, make sure that you choose a business name that is suitable for your business. It is best to hire a legal expert or an LLC Services that will guide you through the process.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to File a DBA?

Filing Georgia DBA (Doing Business As), a fictitious business name, trade name, or assumed name, allows you to operate your business under a different name than your legal name. The process for filing a DBA varies depending on the state or county of your business. You can select a unique and appropriate name for your business that complies with your Georgia naming guidelines. Ensure the name is not misleading or confusingly similar to other businesses in your area. Afterward, you must search your Georgia business name database to ensure another business does not already use your desired DBA name. Once you have confirmed the availability of your desired name, you will need to register your DBA with the appropriate Georgia Secretary of State. 

The registration process typically involves completing an application form, providing the required information about your business, and paying a filing fee. The required information may include your legal business name, address, ownership structure, and the desired DBA name. Georgia requires you to publish a notice of your DBA registration in a local newspaper to inform the public about your new business name. After the notice has been published for the required time, you may need to provide proof of publication to the Georgia Secretary of State where you registered your DBA.

In Georgia, there are two methods, by mail and in person, which costs around $172.

After registering your DBA, update your business records, marketing materials, contracts, and other documents to reflect your new business name. Don’t forget to consult your state or county’s specific DBA filing process, as requirements and procedures may vary.

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Importance of Business Name Search in Georgia

Before researching how to conduct Georgia business name search, you must know why having a business name is important. 

A business name is important for several reasons:

  • Legal Identity: The business name is the official legal identity of your Georgia LLC, which distinguishes it from other businesses. It is a requirement when registering your Georgia LLC with the Georgia Secretary of State. This legal identity allows your Georgia LLC to enter into contracts, open bank accounts, and engage in business activities under its own name.
  • Liability Protection: One of the primary purposes of forming an LLC is to separate the business’s liabilities from its owners’ personal assets. A distinct business name helps establish this separation, reinforcing the limited liability protection the Georgia LLC structure provides.
  • Brand Identity and Recognition: A unique and memorable business name is crucial for building a strong brand identity and presence in the market. It helps customers recognize and remember your products or services and differentiate your Georgia LLC from competitors.
  • Legal Compliance: When registering an LLC, you must ensure that another registered entity within your jurisdiction does not already use the business name. Choosing a unique and available name is essential for legal compliance and avoiding potential disputes with other businesses.
  • Professionalism and Credibility: A well-chosen business name can convey professionalism and credibility, boosting customer trust and confidence in your products or services. An unprofessional or confusing name, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect and deter potential customers.
  • Marketing and Advertising: Your Georgia LLC’s business name plays a significant role in your marketing and advertising efforts. A catchy, memorable name can make your advertising campaigns more effective and increase the likelihood of word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Online Presence and SEO: A chosen business name can improve your Georgia LLC’s online presence and help customers find you more easily through search engines. A strategic business name can contribute to better online visibility and higher search rankings by incorporating relevant keywords and optimizing your website for search.

The importance of a business name search lies in ensuring its uniqueness and legal compliance and avoiding potential conflicts with other businesses. This process helps to establish a distinctive brand identity, protect intellectual property rights, and maintain a professional reputation in the market.

Is it Possible for Two Businesses to Have the Same Name?

Under certain conditions, two businesses that do not compete with each other may share the same name. However, you may be trying to impose on the trademark of the other competing business if either of the following occurs:

  • The company operates in the same geographical area, or
  • The company name is federally registered.

Furthermore, suppose a company name is considered famous or well-known, for example, Dior or Chanel. In that case, it has broader protection, and no other business, regardless of industry or location, can usually use the mark.

It’s best to avoid using another company’s name to avoid future legal issues. 

Can I Sell or Buy Someone Else’s Trademark?

Before selling your trademark, you must incorporate it into a business. A trademark cannot be sold if it is only registered as a placeholder for future use. The trademark must be visible on all products you sell.

You can buy another person’s trademark (known as “trademark assignment”), but the process is legally complex and costly. To purchase an existing trademark, you must purchase all company assets, product lines, or the entire business associated with the trademark.

What Should I Do If My Desired Business Name Is Already In Use?

If your desired business name is already in use, consider modifying it to make it unique and distinguishable from the existing business. You can also explore alternative names that still convey the essence of your business and comply with state naming requirements.

What Should I Do After Finding an Available Business Name?

After finding an available business name, you can proceed with the necessary steps to register your business with Georgia Secretary of State office. This may include filing formation documents, such as Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation, and paying the required filing fees. Additionally, consider registering your business name as a trademark to protect your brand and prevent others from using a confusingly similar name.

FAQs

Why is it important to conduct a business name search in Georgia?
Conducting a name search is important because it allows you to make sure that your business name is available before filing paperwork to register your business in Georgia.
Are there any naming rules or guidelines that I should follow when choosing a business name in Georgia?
Yes, there are. Some requirements include using a unique name, avoiding words that are prohibited by law or that are too similar to existing names, and including a designation that indicates the type of entity you operate.
Can I search for a business name in Georgia online?
Yes, you can. The Georgia Secretary of State website has a searchable database where you can conduct a business name search online.
How can I access the online database to search for a business name in Georgia?
The online database can be accessed by visiting the Georgia Secretary of State website. From there, you can navigate to the business search page.
Is there a fee to search for a business name in Georgia?
No, there is no fee to conduct a name search in Georgia. However, there are fees associated with registering your business in the state.
Can I search for a business name over the phone or by mail in Georgia?
No, you cannot. The only way to search for a business name in Georgia is by using the online database.
What should I do if I find a name that is similar to the name I want to use for my new business in Georgia?
If you find a name that is too similar to your desired name, you should come up with a new name that is unique.
Can I reserve a business name in Georgia?
Yes, you can reserve a business name for 30 days by completing an application and submitting it along with a fee.
Once I have reserved a business name in Georgia, how long do I have to file the paperwork to register my business name?
You have 30 days from the date of your initial application to file the appropriate paperwork to register your business name in Georgia.
What happens if my business name is already in use in Georgia?
If your business name is already in use in Georgia, you must choose a new name that is unique and does not infringe on the trademark rights of the other business.
What is the difference between a trade name and a trademark in Georgia?
A trade name is the legal name of a business whereas a trademark is a logo or symbol that a business uses to represent its brand.
Can I use a trademarked logo or symbol as my business name in Georgia?
No, you cannot. Using a trademarked logo or symbol as your business name is a violation of the trademark holder’s intellectual property rights.
What types of businesses can I register in Georgia?
Georgia allows for the registration of several different types of businesses, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and LLCs.
Should I register my business in Georgia as an LLC or another entity type?
The best entity type for your business will depend on several factors, including your business goals, tax implications, and personal liability. It’s best to consult with a business attorney before making a decision.
What paperwork do I need to file to register my business in Georgia?
The paperwork required will vary depending on the type of business you are registering, but typically includes formation documents, tax registration forms, and any necessary licenses or permits.
Is there a time limit for registration after the business is set up by mail or in-person visit in Georgia?
By mail, there’s a sense of urgency that you register your new business name as soon as possible. However, an in-person visit does not have the same sense of urgency, and you may be able to register your business up to several weeks after it has been set up.
Can I start operating my business before my registration is complete in Georgia?
It is not advisable to operate your business before your registration is complete as doing so puts your personal assets in danger. Doing so without legal protection might cause you to be sued.
How long does it take to register a business in Georgia?
The time it takes to register your business in Georgia depends on several factors, including the type of business you are registering and how quickly you can complete the necessary paperwork. The standard processing time for registration is 3-5 business days.
Can I register my business in Georgia if I do not have a physical location yet?
Yes, you can register your business in Georgia even if you do not have a physical location yet. However, Georgia requires that you have a registered agent residing in Georgia if you do not have a physical location.
What is a registered agent in Georgia?
A registered agent is a designated person or entity that is responsible for accepting legal documents and service of process on behalf of your business in the state in which your business is registered.
Do I have to have a registered agent in Georgia if I have a physical location for my business in Georgia?
The short answer is no. However, there may be situations that require your availability to be completely free, or you may register as your own registered agent if you aren’t concerned about privacy considerations.
Can I change my business name after I have registered it in Georgia?
Yes, you can choose to change your business name after registering and actually conduct a new registration under the new name if you prefer.
Can I check the availability of my desired business name in advance with Georgia online services?
Yes. Georgia maintains an online business presence — the Business Search Tool — that features the availability of all business filing-entity names on its website.
Can I trademark my business name in Georgia?
Yes, you can. The process of trademarking your business name in Georgia will depend on the specifics of your situation, but typically involves filing a registration application with the Georgia Secretary of State Business Services Office.
What is a DBA in Georgia, and when do I need one?
DBA in Georgia, also known as “doing business as,” is a registration statement filed in the office of the clerk of The Superior Court. Also, there is no need for registration unless it is specifically required in the city, province, or region’s state.
What type of registration do I need if I want to run my business as a sole proprietor in Georgia?
Technically, you don’t have to create a business registration for operating as a sole proprietor in Georgia because they use their own personal name as an entity; however, registering a sole proprietorship with the state of Georgia is advantageous due to limited available licenses.
What is an EIN, and do I need one if I want to start a business in Georgia?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) provided by the IRS for tax reporting purposes applies only to businesses if your business is fulfilling the hiring obligation. It enables companies to handle payment, debt effects, business structure setup issues with respect to the taxes they will owe the federal government.
How do I know if my business name is considered a “fictitious business name” in Georgia?
Generally, a fictitious name through means of a trade name or a DBA cannot use “Inc.” or “Incorporated” because such prominence can often mislead others into willfully assuming that the business entity set up and registered with the Secretary of State is a corporation.
Can two different Georgia businesses have similar domain names for their websites?
Yes. Since WWW.TITLES.COM is not TITLES, the domain can be recognized as a reference rather than the whole registered name. As a result, having a similar domain name isn’t necessarily trademark violence unless it looks like the whole company name and image.
How do I conduct a business name search in Georgia?
You can search for business names in Georgia on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
How much does it cost to conduct a business name search in Georgia?
It is free to search for business names on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
What information will I need to conduct a business name search in Georgia?
You will need the name of the business you are searching for.
What if I don’t know the exact name of the business I am searching for in Georgia?
You can use keywords that relate to the business you are searching for, and the Georgia Secretary of State’s website will provide you with a list of possible matches.
Is there a limit to the number of searches I can conduct in Georgia?
No, there is no limit to the number of searches you can conduct on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
Can I search for businesses in Georgia by their location?
Yes, you can search for businesses by their location on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
How long does it take to conduct a business name search in Georgia?
The Georgia Secretary of State’s website provides instant results for business name searches.
Are name searches for Georgia businesses done online only?
Yes, name searches for Georgia businesses are conducted online only.
Can I search for DBAs and other business names in Georgia?
Yes, you can search for DBAs and other business names in Georgia on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
Do I need to have an account to conduct a business name search in Georgia?
No, you do not need to have an account to search for business names in Georgia on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
How long can I reserve a business name in Georgia for?
You can reserve a business name in Georgia for up to 30 days.
How much does it cost to reserve a business name in Georgia?
It costs $25 to reserve a business name in Georgia.
Is reserving a business name in Georgia mandatory before starting a business?
No, reserving a business name in Georgia is not mandatory before starting a business, but it is a good idea to ensure the name is available.
Can I file my business registration forms online in Georgia?
Yes, you can file your business registration forms online in Georgia on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
Is a business name search required by law before starting a business in Georgia?
No, a business name search is not required by law before starting a business in Georgia, but it is a good idea to ensure the name is available.
Can I change the name of a registered business in Georgia?
Yes, you can change the name of a registered business in Georgia by filing the necessary documentation and paying a fee.
Can I trademark a business name in Georgia?
Yes, you can trademark a business name in Georgia by filing a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
How much does it cost to trademark a business name in Georgia?
The cost to trademark a business name in Georgia varies, but the application fee for one trademark class is $275.
Are there any restrictions on the type of names that can be registered in Georgia?
Yes, certain types of names, like those with vulgar or obscene language, can’t be registered in Georgia.
What happens if two businesses have the same name in Georgia?
If two businesses have the same name in Georgia, the business that registered the name first will typically retain the right to the name.
Can I search for businesses in Georgia based on their industry or type of business?
Yes, you can search for businesses in Georgia based on their industry or type of business on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
Can I trademark a business logo or design in Georgia?
Yes, you can trademark a business logo or design in Georgia by filing a trademark application with the USPTO.
What should I do if my chosen business name is already taken in Georgia?
If your chosen business name is already taken in Georgia, you will need to choose a different name.
Can a business name in Georgia be changed after registration?
Yes, a business name in Georgia can be changed after registration by filing the necessary documentation and paying a fee.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when conducting a business name search in Georgia?
A common mistake to avoid is failing to check for similar names or trademarks. It is also important to ensure the name does not infringe on copyrighted material.
How do I know if a business name in Georgia is available?
You can check if a business name in Georgia is available by conducting a name search on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
Are there any special requirements for naming a non-profit organization in Georgia?
Yes, there are special requirements for naming a non-profit organization in Georgia, and you may need to consult with an attorney or other professional for guidance.

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Conclusion

Conducting Georgia business name search is essential for entrepreneurs and business owners in establishing a unique and legally compliant business identity. This process not only helps to avoid potential legal disputes and ensure compliance with state regulations but also plays a critical role in building a strong brand presence in the market. By utilizing the available resources, tools, and guidelines provided by the relevant state or county agencies, business owners can effectively choose and register a business name that stands out from the competition, resonates with the target audience, and contributes to long-term business success.

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