When intending to create an Arkansas LLC you need to first have a big idea. Next, decide on your product or service. Then, think about the meat and potatoes. This is how you will build your dream business.
After the initial rush to get your idea on the market, you need to answer a pressing question: “What do I call it?”
Every LLC requires a name. It should be catchy and not already in use. You can’t take someone else’s name, no matter how clever or creative it might be.
You may be asking, “But,” how do I find out if a name has been used before? There are many businesses in Arkansas and many names to verify. There is an easy way to do it: perform an LLC name search.
How to Search for an Arkansas LLC Name
You can use the Business EntitySearch of the Secretary of State to find specific information about a business or check for the availability of a name. You can access the Business & Commercial Services homepage by clicking “Business Entity search” and you will be there!
Simply enter your desired name in the “Name” area and hit search to find out if it is in use. You can register or reserve your name if your search returns no results. If any businesses are found, you will need to go back to the drawing board and choose a new name.
If you are searching for a specific business, and know the name or part of it, you can enter it in “Name” search. Let’s suppose you don’t know exactly the name. That’s okay! You can search for registered agent information and/or filing number.
You went to the Business Entity Search and entered your name. The search returned your name. Now what?
Your only option is to brainstorm ideas for a new LLC if your LLC is domestic (formed here in Arkansas). Don’t choose one that is too similar. Once you have found a suitable name, form an LLC or save the name for later.
The process for foreign LLCs is slightly different. If you already have a name that you use to do business in other states, it is not necessary to change it. If that name is not available in Arkansas, you’ll need to create a “fictitious” name that you can use in Arkansas. Section 1b of Application to Certificate of Registration allows you to add your fictitious identity. It will be registered in the state when you submit the form.
There are many reasons to search for an LLC name
Although Arkansas LLC name availability is most commonly searched for, it’s not the only reason. These are just a few of the reasons to search for a name.
1) Searching for similar names
Potential customers shouldn’t confuse you with another company, even if it is a competitor. Although your proposed name may be available, there might be other businesses with similar names. This could be a reason to change your name if you don’t want your LLC mixed up with other companies.
2) Verify Your Business Status
After you have filed the Articles of Organization, and created your Arkansas LLC you can check its status periodically by searching for your name. This will confirm that your business is in good standing with the state. It also provides your filing number which may be required for certain applications.
3) Information about the Registered Agent and the Office
You might have to send a business process. You might also want to become a partner with them. You’ll need their Arkansas registered agents name, and their office address. This information is easily accessed through a name search.
4) Maintaining current business information
You will need to verify the information the Secretary of State has in order to modify your LLC’s information, such as changing the registered agent or the principal address to a member. This can be done by a name search.
Business808, a renowned consulting organization that aids startups in scaling and growing, is led by Andy Brooks as Editor-in-Chief.
Andy has over 12 years of consulting experience and is a pro at creating and managing profitable businesses. He has experience working with several LLCs and Registered Agent services and has a degree in business management. He has assisted clients in achieving their objectives.
In addition to writing for Business808, Andy is a well-known author and speaker, and an active contributor to several online business publications, imparting his knowledge on how to grow an LLC.