On the website of the Montana Secretary of State, start by conducting a name search. All of the state’s registered businesses are listed in this database. Simply input the name you wish to use and check the search results to see if it appears. You’ll have to pick an alternative name if the one you like is already taken.
An additional choice is to conduct a trademark search on the website of the USPTO. This will inform you if the name you want to use is already protected by a trademark. A company may have a trademark on its name even if it is not registered in Montana.
You can also get in touch with the Montana Secretary of State’s office directly if you are unsure if a name is accessible or not. They can give you details about businesses that have been registered and assist you in finding out whether a name is available.
Starting a business in Montana also involves picking a name and filing income tax filings. Any company that conducts business in Montana or receives money from Montana-based sources must submit a Montana income tax return. Both people and entities, such as companies, partnerships, and LLCs, are covered by this.
Additionally, LLCs in Montana must submit an annual report to the Secretary of State’s office. The name and address of the LLC, the names and addresses of its members and management, and a summary of the business operations carried out by the LLC during the previous year are all included in this report.
Businesses in Montana must additionally take into account self-employment tax. Self-employment tax must be paid if you are self-employed and make more than $400 per year. Based on your self-employment net income, this tax is used to pay for Social Security and Medicare.
Finally, a state federal ID number may be required for firms in Montana. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses this special number to keep track of tax returns and payments. You must receive a state federal ID number if you have employees or must file specific tax filings.
Finally, picking a company name is a crucial first step in beginning a new business in Montana. You may make sure that your company is legally compliant and prepared for success by conducting a name search and trademark search, getting in touch with the Secretary of State’s office, and adhering to tax and reporting regulations.
You can examine your company’s tax records to find your FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number) or go to the IRS website and use the “Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) Online” option. The IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line can be reached at 1-800-829-4933.