Legally, it is not necessary to include LLC in your company name. It may, however, be useful in some circumstances. For instance, if your company works under a name other than its legal name, incorporating LLC in your company name can make it simpler for consumers and other businesses to understand your organizational structure. When conducting business with bigger organizations, this can also lend a sense of credibility and professionalism. However, it may not be required to include LLC in your business name if you intend to conduct business under your own name (for example, John Smith LLC). This is due to the fact that your name already alluded to your company’s legal structure, and adding LLC might make it too long and difficult to recall. Having LLC in your company name can be problematic when it comes to branding. It may make the name of your company sound unappealing to buyers since it is overly professional or bureaucratic. Additionally, incorporating LLC in your name may restrict your possibilities if you intend to grow your firm in the future. For instance, changing your business name to eliminate the LLC is required if you wish to convert your LLC to a corporation. This can be expensive and confusing for clients. If you choose to use LLC in your company name, the procedure is rather straightforward. When you register your company with the state, your Articles of Organization must contain it. You must also confirm that your intended business name is available and not currently in use by another company. On the California Secretary of State website, you may see if your company name is available.
You can create an LLC on your own in California by following these steps: Create an operating agreement
5. Obtain an EIN from the IRS
6. Submit Form 568, Limited Liability Company Return of Income, with the California Franchise Tax Board
1. Pick an LLC name and make sure it is available
2. File articles of organization with the California Secretary of State
3. Obtain any necessary licenses or permits
4. How Long Does It Take in California to Form an LLC?
Depending on the filing type, California LLC formation can take a variety of processing times. The processing period for online filings through the California Secretary of State website is normally 24 hours. The processing period for mail-in applications can last up to 4-6 weeks.
If a nonprofit conducts business under a name other than its legal name, a DBA (Doing Business As) may be required. For instance, if a nonprofit with the name “The Hope Foundation” also runs a thrift shop called “Hope’s Treasures,” it must submit a DBA.
Do Nonprofits in California Need to File a DBA? Yes, if a nonprofit in California operates under a name other than their legal name, they must register a DBA. The county clerk’s office where the organization is located can help do this.
If you run a nonprofit, you might think about trademarking your organization’s name or symbol. This might shield your nonprofit from competing businesses that might use a name or emblem that is identical to or similar to yours, confusing potential contributors and supporters. But it’s crucial to keep in mind that trademarking can be a difficult and pricey process, and it might not be required for many NGOs. It is advised to seek legal advice before deciding whether trademarking is the best course of action for your nonprofit.