Business Name Search in Louisiana | A Comprehensive Guide

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Conduct a Business Name Search in Louisiana

Conducting a business name search in Louisiana is an essential step for entrepreneurs and business owners in starting an LLC in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Conduct a Business Name Search in Louisiana

What is a Business Name Search?

Business name search in Louisiana 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 Louisiana involves using the Louisiana 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana that will help you with your business name search.

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How to Conduct a Business Name Search in Louisiana

Before knowing why a business name is necessary, you should now conduct a business name search in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana Secretary of State Corporations Search to access the entity search tool.

Step 2: Perform the Search

On the Louisiana 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana

You now conducted a business search in Louisiana. With what you have searched and listed, you will choose the most suitable business name for your Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana’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 Louisiana, 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 60 days. You must file a name reservation application in the Louisiana Secretary of State by mail or online filing to keep the name.

The Louisiana 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana Secretary of State. The LLC name, contact information, the names of the LLC’s members, and the name and address of the LLC’s Resident Agent must all be included in the Articles of Organization.

File your Articles of Organization online on the Louisiana 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 Louisiana Secretary of State – State of Louisiana Secretary of State, P.O. Box 94125, Baton Rouge, LA 70804.

If you are planning to start an LLC in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana naming guidelines. Ensure the name is not misleading or confusingly similar to other businesses in your area. Afterward, you must search your Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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. Louisiana 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 Louisiana Secretary of State where you registered your DBA.

In Louisiana, there are three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing, which costs around $75 Filing Fee and $300 for 24-hour Expedited fiiling.

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 Louisiana

Before researching how to conduct Louisiana 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 Louisiana LLC, which distinguishes it from other businesses. It is a requirement when registering your Louisiana LLC with the Louisiana Secretary of State. This legal identity allows your Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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

Where can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana?
You can conduct a business name search at the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website.
Can I search for businesses by owner’s name in Louisiana?
No, the Louisiana Secretary of State’s database does not allow searches by owner’s name.
Is there any fee to conduct a business name search in Louisiana?
No, conducting a business name search in Louisiana is free of charge.
How do I know if a business name is available in Louisiana?
You can check the Louisiana Secretary of State’s database to see if the business name is already registered.
How long does it take to process a business name reservation request in Louisiana?
It typically takes around 2-5 business days to process a business name reservation request in Louisiana.
What types of businesses need to register their name in Louisiana?
All types of businesses, including corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietorships, need to register their name in Louisiana.
Can I change my business name in Louisiana?
Yes, you can change your business name by filing an amendment with the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Is a business name protected in Louisiana?
Yes, once you register a business name in Louisiana, it becomes protected, meaning no other business can use the same name in the state.
Can two businesses have the same name in different states?
Yes, two businesses can have the same name if they are in different states, as long as neither business operates in the other state.
Can I trademark my business name in Louisiana?
Yes, you can trademark your business name in Louisiana through the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Are there any special rules for naming a business in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana has specific rules regarding the use of certain words in business names, such as “bank,” “doctor,” or “architecture.”
Can I file a business name registration application by mail in Louisiana?
Yes, you can file a business name registration application by mail in Louisiana by sending it to the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Can I file a business name registration application online in Louisiana?
Yes, you can file a business name registration application online through the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website.
Do I need a Louisiana business license to register a business name?
No, you do not need a Louisiana business license to register a business name.
Do I need to register a trade name in Louisiana?
Yes, you must register a trade name in Louisiana if you plan to use it in your business.
How do I register a trade name in Louisiana?
You can register a trade name by filing a Trade Name Registration with the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Can I have multiple trade names for one business in Louisiana?
Yes, you can have multiple trade names for one business in Louisiana, but each name must be registered separately.
Do I need to renew my business name registration in Louisiana?
Yes, you must renew your business name registration every 10 years in Louisiana.
Can I search for a business by location in Louisiana?
No, the Louisiana Secretary of State’s database does not allow searches by location.
Can I use a business name that is already registered in another state?
Yes, you can use a business name that is already registered in another state as long as the name is available in Louisiana.
Can I use a fictitious name instead of my legal name in Louisiana?
Yes, you can use a fictitious name in Louisiana as long as you register it with the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Can I trademark my business name internationally?
Yes, you can trademark your business name internationally through the World Intellectual Property Organization.
Can I search for trademarks in Louisiana?
No, you cannot search for trademarks in Louisiana. You must search for trademarks on the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s website.
Can I reserve a trademark in Louisiana?
No, you cannot reserve a trademark in Louisiana.
How much does it cost to register a business name in Louisiana?
It costs $25 to register a business name in Louisiana.
Is there a penalty for not registering a business name in Louisiana?
Yes, there can be a penalty for not registering a business name in Louisiana, including fines or legal action by the state.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana using the telephone?
No, you cannot conduct a business name search in Louisiana using the telephone.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana over the weekend?
No, you cannot conduct a business name search in Louisiana over the weekend.
How long does it take to receive the results of a business name search in Louisiana?
The time it takes to receive the results of a business name search in Louisiana varies depending on the type of search you require.
Can I obtain a certified copy of the search results from a business name search in Louisiana?
Yes, you can obtain a certified copy of the search results from a business name search in Louisiana.
What is the fastest way to conduct a business name search in Louisiana?
The fastest way to conduct a business name search in Louisiana is online.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana using the name of the owner?
No, you cannot conduct a business name search in Louisiana using the name of the owner.
Is it required to conduct a business name search in Louisiana before registering a business name?
Yes, it is required to conduct a business name search in Louisiana before registering a business name.
What is the purpose of conducting a business name search in Louisiana?
The purpose of conducting a business name search in Louisiana is to ensure that the name you choose for your business is not already in use, thereby avoiding legal disputes.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana for free?
No, you cannot conduct a business name search in Louisiana for free.
What is the cost of conducting a business name search in Louisiana?
The cost of conducting a business name search in Louisiana varies depending on the type of search you require.
Are there any age restrictions for conducting a business name search in Louisiana?
No, there are no age restrictions for conducting a business name search in Louisiana.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a business located in another state?
No, you cannot conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a business located in another state.
How often should I conduct a business name search in Louisiana?
You should conduct a business name search in Louisiana whenever you are planning to start a new business or when you need to update your current business information.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a non-profit organization?
Yes, you can conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a non-profit organization.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a trade name or a trademarked name?
No, you cannot conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a trade name or a trademarked name.
Is it possible to conduct a business name search in Louisiana on behalf of someone else?
Yes, it is possible to conduct a business name search in Louisiana on behalf of someone else.
What is a trade name as per the Louisiana laws related to businesses?
A trade name is a name used to identify the business or product being sold, rather than the business or product’s owner.
Can I use a name which is similar to another business name registered in Louisiana?
No, you cannot use a name which is similar to another business name registered in Louisiana.
Is it mandatory to present identification while conducting a business name search in Louisiana?
No, it is not mandatory to present identification while conducting a business name search in Louisiana.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a business that is registered under a sole proprietorship?
Yes, you can conduct a business name search in Louisiana for a business that is registered under a sole proprietorship.
Can I conduct a business name search in Louisiana under short deadline?
Yes, rush processing is available for conducting a business name search in Louisiana at an additional cost.
What is the difference between the comprehensive and limited business name search in Louisiana?
The comprehensive search looks at all trademarks and business names across databases while the limited search looks at the most frequently used trademarks.
Can Louisiana business owners use foreign-language business names?
Yes, Louisiana business owners can use foreign-language business names, but they must also provide a corresponding English translation.
Can I search for business names by location in Louisiana?
Yes, you can search for business names by location in Louisiana.
What should I do after completing a business name search in Louisiana?
After completing a business name search in Louisiana, if you find a business name that meets your needs and is not already taken, you should register it with the state.

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Conclusion

Conducting Louisiana 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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