Business Name Search in New Jersey | A Comprehensive Guide

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Conduct a Business Name Search in New Jersey

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

How to Conduct a Business Name Search in New Jersey

What is a Business Name Search?

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

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How to Conduct a Business Name Search in New Jersey

Before knowing why a business name is necessary, you should now conduct a business name search in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services to access the entity search tool.

Step 2: Perform the Search

On the New Jersey 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 New Jersey, 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 New Jersey

You now conducted a business search in New Jersey. With what you have searched and listed, you will choose the most suitable business name for your New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey’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 New Jersey, 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 120 days. You must file a name reservation application in the New Jersey Secretary of State by mail or online filing to keep the name.

The New Jersey 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 Certificate of Formation in New Jersey, to form your LLC, you must include the reservation number.

After reserving an LLC name, you must still form the LLC by filing the Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey 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 Certificate of Formation.

File your Certificate of Formation online on the New Jersey 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 New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services – New Jersey Division of Revenue, P.O. Box 308, Trenton, NJ 08646.

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

In New Jersey, there are two methods, by mail and in person, which costs around $50.

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 New Jersey

Before researching how to conduct New Jersey 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 New Jersey LLC, which distinguishes it from other businesses. It is a requirement when registering your New Jersey LLC with the New Jersey Secretary of State. This legal identity allows your New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey Secretary of State office. This may include filing formation documents, such as Certificate of Formation or Certificate 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

How do I conduct a business name search in New Jersey?
You can search online through the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Is searching for a business name in New Jersey free?
Yes, you can search for free on the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
How is a business name search different from a trademark search in New Jersey?
A business name search looks for name availability for a business under state registration, while a trademark search looks for name availability for a product or service under federal registration.
What if the business name I want is already registered in New Jersey?
You will need to choose a new name or, if the registered business is inactive, you may be able to reactivate the name.
How long does it take to register a business name in New Jersey?
It can take three to four weeks for a business name to be registered in New Jersey.
Can I reserve a business name before registering in New Jersey?
Yes, you can reserve a business name for up to four months in New Jersey.
What is a DBA and how do I register for it in New Jersey?
A DBA, or “doing business as,” is a registration that allows a business to operate under a different name. You can register for a DBA in New Jersey through the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Do I need a business license to register a business name in New Jersey?
No, registering a business name does not require a business license. However, you will need to obtain all necessary licenses to operate the business.
What types of businesses can I register in New Jersey?
You can register various types of businesses, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations, in New Jersey.
How do I register a nonprofit organization in New Jersey?
Nonprofit organizations can register through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs Charities Registration page.
What are the fees for registering a business name in New Jersey?
The fee for registering a business name in New Jersey is $50.
Can I change my business name in New Jersey?
Yes, you can change your business name by filling out the necessary paperwork on the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Can I check for name availability for multiple business names at once in New Jersey?
Yes, the online system allows you to search for up to ten names at a time.
Do I need a lawyer to register a business name in New Jersey?
No, you do not need a lawyer to register a business name in New Jersey.
Can I register a business name in New Jersey if I live in a different state?
Yes, you can register a business name in New Jersey even if you live in a different state.
What if I only plan to operate a business in a specific city or county in New Jersey?
You will still need to register your business name with the State of New Jersey.
When should I register my business name in New Jersey?
You should register your business name before starting your business operations.
Can I trademark my business name in New Jersey?
No, trademarks are granted at the federal level by the US Patent and Trademark Office.
What are the legal requirements for registering a business name in New Jersey?
Your business name must be unique and cannot be misleading to the consumer.
Can I trade under a different name than my registered business name in New Jersey?
Yes, but only if you register for a DBA.
How do I know if my chosen business name will be accepted in New Jersey?
You can check name availability through the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Can I check name availability for business names in New Jersey on other websites?
No, name search should be done on the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Do I need to renew my business name registration in New Jersey?
No, as long as you pay the registration fee your business name registration never expires in NJ.
How do I dissolve a business in New Jersey?
You can dissolve a business through the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
What happens if I do not register my business name in New Jersey?
Failure to register a business name can result in fines or legal action.
Can two businesses have the same name in different states?
Yes, two businesses can legally have the same name if the other state permits this occurrence.
Can I register multiple business names under the same owner in New Jersey?
You can register multiple business names as long as they are not misleading to the public.
Can I register a business name in New Jersey without a physical address?
No, you must provide a physical address to register your business name.
Can I register for a business name in New Jersey as an individual?
Yes, you can register for a business name as a sole proprietor in New Jersey.
How do I conduct a name search for my business in New Jersey?
You can search for available business names online through the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Is it mandatory to conduct a name search for my business in New Jersey?
It is highly recommendable, but not a legal requirement to conduct a business name search before registering your business.
How much does it cost to conduct a name search for a business in New Jersey?
The cost is $1 per name search.
Can I reserve a business name in New Jersey?
Yes, you can. It costs $50 to reserve a business name.
Can I change the business name after registering my business in New Jersey?
Yes, you can. Submit an amendment with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
How long does it take to complete a name search in New Jersey?
Most searches are completed within a few minutes to an hour, excluding backlogs.
What do I do if I cannot find the desired business name in the New Jersey business name search database?
If you cannot find the desired business name, you may use a different variation that closely resembles your choice or hire a Professional for help.
Can I use a business name already in use in another state but not in use in New Jersey?
No, you will need to check if the same business name is already being utilized in New Jersey, even if the business is not in operation.
How many business names are allowable per registration in New Jersey?
You may register one to three business names associate with one business filing.
What entity types can conduct a name search in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services allows searches for business and foreign corporations, limited liability companies, limited companies, limited partnerships, etc.
Do I need to hire an attorney to conduct a business name search in New Jersey?
No, it is not required to hire an attorney to complete a name search.
What is the best domain to register your business name in New Jersey?
The domain you choose should have “.NJ” on the end.
How long is a reserved business name valid for in New Jersey?
The reserved name is valid for 120 days.
How do I protect my business name in New Jersey?
Once you’re sure your business name is okay, you should enroll it with the U.S Patent and Trademark Office.
Can a rejected business name become accepted when redistributed?
Yes, once rejected, it can be applied when available again.
How long does it take for an approved name during the registration process of a business in New Jersey to become active?
The registration’s name becomes actionable when approval is granted.
Do companies face penalties if registering a business in New Jersey with another business’ name?
Yes, you can face penalties if registration is conducted with another’s business name, even if it hasn’t started operating yet.
How does conducting a business name search in New Jersey differ for foreign corporations?
Foreign corporations must use no more than three characters or letters from the foreign corporation name.
Can a name search reject requesting a registered trademark or LLC names during a business name search in New Jersey?
The registry can reject LLC names not usable, even if not registered trademarks.
How can I check if another business in New Jersey has an identical name to mine?
You may conduct a business name search on the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Does using a sound-alike name constitute infringement of another business’s name in New Jersey?
It may or may not depend on whether the signed name may cause confusion between the two businesses.
How can I increase the potential that a name is accepted in the business name search system in New Jersey?
Provide and use the essential requirements for selecting a business name such as serial numbers and letters.
Can unregistered phone names increase trading degrees for a business in New Jersey?
Unregistered phone names don’t impact trading degrees for businesses or registering a name for businesses.
Must I obtain a trade name when running a sole proprietorship in New Jersey?
You have to file a Doing Business As name consistent if running a sole proprietorship or a partnership, even if you provide services in your name.
Can an integrated program clear check cards during a name search in New Jersey?
The integrated picture unavailable results startup at this time on the prompt register.
How should potential future market expansions be considered when selecting a name when starting a business in New Jersey?
Potential expansion considerations should be made while choosing a name. A fully scoped scope approach would confirm bringing the brand overseas worth the effort, especially for companies too large to disappear.
Should slang terminology or metaphors be considered when selecting a business name to be used in New Jersey?
Avoid meaningless invitations means anything finding frequent, provocative names to impersonate. Simplify and stay conversational with the language used when selecting a name.
How does registering a business name dataset authority over ownership of the business name in New Jersey?
The dataset and registry posting furnish recognition to the registrant and its associates.

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Conclusion

Conducting New Jersey 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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