Naming a Corporation

Agency: Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

The proposed name of a corporation must be distinguishable from the name of other domestic or foreign corporations, limited partnerships or limited liability companies. The name may not contain a word or phrase indicating it is organized for a purpose other than is stated in the Articles of Incorporation.

If a corporation is to operate under one or more names other than the corporation's true name, a Certificate of Assumed Name (CSCL/CD 541)must also be filed. The assumed name must be distinguishable from the names of active limited partnerships, corporations or limited liability companies.

Prospective incorporators should wait until the articles are filed before ordering or purchasing items such as signs, business cards and stationery to avoid problems that may arise due to a conflict with another entity's name.