When it comes to starting a business in Georgia, one of the first steps you must make sure you take is to conduct a thorough business name search with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Doing this has several advantages which we will cover fully in this post and also help with the most correct steps you must take to accomplish this.
The Georgia Secretary of State oversees voting, tracks annual corporate filings, grants professional licenses, and oversees the state’s securities market. Because of this, it is required of you to put everything in place before proceeding, we will explore the process of conducting a business search, the importance of name availability, and how to reserve a business name with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Understanding the Role of the Georgia Secretary of State
The Georgia Secretary of State plays a crucial role in the state’s business landscape. They are responsible for registering voters, tracking annual corporate filings, granting professional licenses, and overseeing the state’s securities market. The office is dedicated to serving the citizens of Georgia and ensuring the integrity of business operations within the state.
Why Conduct a Business Search?
Before formally registering your business with the Georgia Secretary of State, it is essential to conduct a business search to ensure the availability of your desired business name. The purpose of the business search is to prevent potential conflicts with existing businesses and maintain clarity and uniqueness in the marketplace. By conducting a thorough business search, you can avoid legal issues and establish a strong brand identity.
How to Conduct a Business Search with the Georgia Secretary of State
Performing a business search with the Georgia Secretary of State is a straightforward process. You have multiple options to choose from, including online, mail, or in-person applications. To accomplish this, below is a step by step guide on how you can go about it.
Step 1: Understand the Name Availability Standards
Before conducting a business search, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the Georgia Secretary of State’s name availability standards. These standards will help you choose an appropriate and available business name.
Step 2: Search Existing Business Names Online
To determine if your desired business name is already taken, utilize the Georgia Secretary of State’s online business search tool. This tool allows you to search existing business names in the state. However, note that this is for research purposes only and not an official name availability search.
Step 3: Choose Three Name Variations
Select three name variations for your business. This ensures that if your first choice is already taken, you have alternative options. It is essential to have backup names to avoid delays in the registration process.
Step 4: Fill Out and File an Application
You can file a name reservation application online, by mail, or in person. Each method requires a nonrefundable filing fee of $25. The below steps guide you exactly the steps on how to apply based on your preferred method.
Online Application:
- Visit the Secretary of State’s online services page.
- Create a user account.
- Select “name reservation” from the available options.
- Fill out your personal information and enter your three desired names in order of preference.
- Pay the $25 filing fee using an approved credit card.
- The processing time for online applications is typically 7 business days, unless expedited processing is requested for an additional cost.
Mail Application:
- Download the name reservation request form from the Secretary of State’s website.
- Fill out the form with your personal information and three desired names.
- Mail the completed form and a $35 check or money order to the address provided.
- The processing time for mail applications is typically 15 business days, unless expedited processing is requested for an additional cost.
Step 5: Next Steps
Once you have submitted your name reservation application, the Secretary of State will conduct a thorough name search. If one of your name choices is available, it will be reserved for 30 days. If you are still wondering on what to expect, below are things you should keep at the back of your mind.
- If your first choice is approved, your name is reserved for 30 days. If you wish to continue reserving the name after 30 days, you must reapply and pay an additional $25 fee ($35 for paper format).
- If all three name options are taken, you will receive a rejection notice. You can then reapply with three new name options for an additional fee.
Additional Resources and Services
The Georgia Secretary of State offers additional resources and services to assist businesses in Georgia. Valuable resource plays advantageous rows in the business search in Georgia, we have compiled some valuable resources that will help you.
- Georgia Corporations Division: The Corporations Division oversees the registration of corporations, limited liability companies, and limited partnerships in Georgia. They provide services for both domestic and foreign entities doing business in the state.
- Georgia Charities Division: The Charities Division enforces laws related to charitable organizations, paid solicitors, and solicitor agents. They provide information and guidance on starting, registering, and managing charitable organizations in Georgia.
- Georgia Elections Division: The Elections Division organizes and oversees all election activities in Georgia, including voter registration and election timelines. They play a vital role in ensuring fair and transparent elections at the municipal, state, county, and federal levels.
- Georgia Securities Division: The Securities Division implements and enforces the Georgia Uniform Securities Act of 2008. They regulate the securities market in the state to protect investors and maintain market integrity.
- Georgia Professional Licensing Boards Division: This division provides administrative support to the licensing boards in Georgia. They handle applications, complaints, and licensing updates for various professional industries.
Conclusion
Conducting a business search with the Georgia Secretary of State is a critical step in starting a business in Georgia. By ensuring the availability of your desired business name, you can establish a strong brand identity and avoid potential legal issues.
The Georgia Secretary of State offers user-friendly tools and resources to facilitate the business search process. Utilize these resources and follow the step-by-step guide provided in this article to successfully navigate the business search and name reservation process.
