How to Register a Business Name in SC: A Step-by-Step Guide

How do I register a business name in SC?
Most state agencies have made registering and filing online simple. You can register your business online with the SC Secretary of State’s Office at sos.sc.gov. You will need to create a username and password to begin.
Read more on scbos.sc.gov

In South Carolina, launching a business involves more than simply an excellent concept. To ensure that your company name is original and not currently in use by another corporation, you must register it legally. We’ll walk you through the process of registering a business name in South Carolina in this post and address some related issues.

What is Required in SC to Launch a Business?

A few things must be in order before you may register a business name in South Carolina. You must first choose the type of business structure you desire. A solo proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation, or nonprofit are your options. Every sort of business structure has advantages and disadvantages of its own, so it’s crucial to do your homework and pick the one that best meets your company’s demands.

The next step is to select a distinctive company name that isn’t already registered to another South Carolina-based corporation. To confirm that the name you want to use is available, use the name search feature on the South Carolina Secretary of State’s website. If the name you choose isn’t available, you’ll have to pick another. Are DBAs Required to be Registered in South Carolina?

You must file a DBA (Doing Business As) form in South Carolina if the business name you use differs from your legal name. You must register the name Sweet Delights as a DBA, for instance, if your name is John Smith and you’re opening a bakery with that name.

You must submit a Certificate of Assumed Name to the Secretary of State’s office in South Carolina to register a DBA. You must publish a notice of your DBA in a local newspaper and pay a $10 filing fee. The website of the South Carolina Secretary of State has more details.

How Do I Register an LLC in South Carolina, then?

You must submit Articles of Organization to the Secretary of State’s office in South Carolina in order to register an LLC there. There is a $110 filing fee. Additionally, you must designate a registered agent who will accept legal documents on your LLC’s behalf.

You must apply for all essential licenses and permits to run your business in South Carolina after registering your LLC. The South Carolina Business One Stop website has more details about business licenses and permits.

How Long Does It Take to Register a Business in South Carolina, then?

Your choice of business structure and how quickly you can compile and submit the required papers will determine how long it takes to establish a business in South Carolina. An LLC or corporation must be registered within 2-3 weeks, whereas a sole proprietorship or partnership must be registered within 1-2 weeks.

In conclusion, choosing a business name and registering it in South Carolina are critical first steps. You must select a distinctive name, file the relevant papers with the Secretary of State’s office, and register a DBA if required. With the help of this manual, you’ll be well on your way to launching a prosperous enterprise in South Carolina.

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