For corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships that conduct business under a name other than the owner’s or the business entity’s legal name, the Fictitious Name Certificate is necessary. To create a bank account, advertise, and conduct business under a fictitious name, a company needs the certificate.
In Virginia, one must submit an application to the Virginia State Corporation Commission in order to get a fictitious name certificate. The application must contain the applicant’s name, address, the fake name being used, and a declaration that the applicant is not using the name to commit fraud against or violate the rights of another firm.
Individuals who want to run a sole proprietorship in Virginia must additionally get a business license from the local government in addition to the Fictitious Name Certificate. The city or county where the business is located is where the license is received from, and there are different requirements based on where you are. The Certificate of Good Standing is another critical document for companies. This certificate, which the SCC issues, attests to the company’s good standing with the state. It demonstrates that the company has paid all relevant fees and taxes and has submitted all required paperwork to the state.
A sole proprietorship is a company held by one individual who is accountable for all business-related matters, including obligations and debts. This sort of business is popular among small businesses since it is simple to set up and requires little paperwork.
Using the company name or SCC ID number, one can conduct a search on the SCC website to learn more about a firm in Virginia. The website offers details about the company’s status, registered agent, and any state filings.
Finally, a Fictitious Name Certificate is necessary for companies using a name other than their legal one. In order for enterprises to function lawfully and demonstrate their good standing with the state, they also need to obtain a business license and Certificate of Good Standing. In Virginia, a sole proprietorship is a common type of business form, therefore it’s critical to comprehend the criteria and paperwork. The website of the SCC is a great tool for learning more about a Virginia-based business.
You can look for a person’s ownership of a company in Virginia by using the Business Entity Search database maintained by the Virginia State Corporation Commission. The names of all business entities registered in Virginia are listed in this database along with information on those entities. You can also see if a fictitious name certificate has been submitted under the alleged business name by checking the county clerk’s office where the company is registered.