Florida LLC Naming Guidelines

Florida LLC Naming Rules, Requirements and Pitfalls

LLC names must adhere to specific rules, including the requirement to include a designation like "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" at the end of the name. The name must also be unique and not misleading. Additionally, LLC names must not be confusingly similar to other registered businesses in the state. 
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. LLC Designation:
  • All LLCs must include a specific designation in their name to indicate they are a Limited Liability Company.
  • Common designations include "LLC," "L.L.C.," "Limited Liability Company," or "Limited".
  • Abbreviations like "Ltd." and "Co." are also acceptable, but "LLC" is most common. 
2. Name Uniqueness:
  • The LLC name must not be identical or confusingly similar to any existing business name in the state. 
  • A name search should be conducted to ensure the name is available. 
3. No Misleading Names:
  • LLC names cannot mislead the public or suggest an association with government entities.
  • Avoid using terms like "Department," "Agency," "Office," or "Commission" unless the LLC is a genuine government entity.
  • The name should align with the stated purpose in the Articles of Organization. 
4. Other Restrictions:
  • Prohibited Words: Certain words may be restricted, such as those implying banking or insurance activities. 
  • Punctuation and Symbols: The use of symbols and punctuation in LLC names may be limited. 
  • Trademark Infringement: The LLC name cannot infringe on existing trademarks. 
5. General Tips:
  • Memorable and Easy to Pronounce: Choose a name that is easy to remember and pronounce. 
  • Domain Name Availability: Consider if a matching domain name is available. 
  • Reflect Business Purpose: The name should ideally reflect the nature of the business. 

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