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One of the first steps to take when starting a New Jersey business is to perform a New Jersey Business Search. The New Jersey Secretary of State maintains records of New Jersey business entities that exist or have dissolved. The database is free to use and makes it easy to find existing businesses or look to see if a business name may be available. How to search New Jersey business namesBusinesses can be searched through the NJportal.com site by:
Business entity searchThe most popular search method for Corporations and LLCs is to perform an entity name search. To perform a search, simply follow the steps below to check for name availability:
There is no need to Enter LLC, Corp, or any other entity type into the search field, and the database does not generate results for Sole Proprietorships or Partnerships. New Jersey provides options to search by Active vs Inactive businesses as well. Business IDEach New Jersey corporation is assigned a Business ID number when their corporation is registered. To search by Business ID enter the ID number and select “Search”. Filing numberTo search by filing number enter the filing number and select “Search”. New Jersey business statusIf a business is struggling to think of a good business name, one way to generate ideas is to look through the search results list to see if any expired names could fit the business. For example, if someone wanted to open up a new BBQ restaurant, they could enter “BBQ” into the search bar and generate a list of ideas that are available based on the business status results: If an expired business name in the search records is of interest, confirming that it is available is recommended by calling the New Jersey Secretary of State in Trenton at phone number 609-777-2581 Trademark searchOne thing to remember is that even though the desired business name may be available, it could have a registered trademark. Performing a trademark search through the Trademark Electronic Search System before selecting a business name could prevent headaches in the future. Next steps1. Check if the domain name is available
2. Check if the social media name is availableIn the digital age, it is essential to have a solid social media presence. Customers will often check sites like Yelp and Google Reviews to gauge what others think about a business. Some other tips on social media for a New Jersey business entity:
3. Register New Jersey business entityNew Jersey businesses can be registered through the state.NJ.us site. Another option is to file with companies like Northwest Registered Agent, Incfile, or ZenBusiness, who can take care of the filings for as little as $0 plus state filing fees. For further step-by-step instructions on how to file your LLC check out this New Jersey LLC guide. 4. Register TAX ID/EIN with the IRSAn EIN is a nine-digit number that identifies a business for tax purposes. Think of it as a social security number for businesses. Filing your EIN for a limited liability company (LLC) is straightforward and can be done online. New Jersey corporations can register for a Tax ID for $79 with Swyft Filings. 5. Create a logoSimilar to selecting a good business name, businesses with a great logo impress customers, help distinguish themselves from the competition, and create a positive visual memory of your unique business services for customers. With the emergence of freelance marketplaces, it is easy to get a logo done on Fiverr in 24 hours or less. 6. Write a business planWriting a business plan can help organize business owners’ ideas and create a pathway for businesses to follow. Having a professionally written business plan also impresses investors and helps create accountability. Liveplan.com is a business plan software that can help make the process easy as they have over 500 sample plans to choose from. Businesses that form partnerships should consider having a professional operating agreement. 7. Open a business bank accountHaving a business bank account is required for businesses as it helps keep business and personal finances separate. It also helps build business credibility in the event business loans are needed to grow the business in the future. Businesses must have a business mailing address in order to open a business bank account and are not allowed to use a po box as their primary mailing address. Lili and Novo are online banks that specialize in working with freelancers and entrepreneurs. We recommend NovoBuilt for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. 8. Setup an email accountGoogle Workspace can help set up an @yourcompany email address for as little as $6 per month. Plan on running your business wellGoogle Workspace helps with email addresses, team collaboration, productivity, and more. 9. Register a trademarkOne of the easiest ways to file a trademark is through LegalZoom. They have options to file by themselves or pay an additional fee to have an attorney take care of the filings. New Jersey business structure naming considerationsWhen selecting a New Jersey business name, it is important to understand the different naming requirements for each of the different entity types. Sole proprietorships and partnershipsIn New Jersey, sole proprietorships do not have to file with the department of commerce to begin business operations. Sole Proprietorships typically operate under a person’s name, so there is no need to perform a business name search in most situations. Like Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships are relatively easy to file and generally include all partners’ last names (ex: Smith, Jones, and Lasalle). LLCsLLCs are separate legal entities that separate owners’ business interests, debts, and liabilities from personal responsibilities. Names for LLCs are required to be filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State and must be unique. A few reminders when naming LLCs:
CorporationsCorporations are fairly complex and typically used by large companies looking to issue stock and attract investors. Corporation naming considerations:
FAQsNew Jersey requires business entities to file an annual report for existing business entities registered with the state. The annual report due date and paperwork can be found on the New Jersey Secretary of State website. A New Jersey reservation form needs to be filled out and mailed to the Secretary of State to reserve a New Jersey business name. The name reservation filing fee is $50 and will reserve the business name for 120 days. A DBA (doing business as), or trade name, is a fictitious business name that companies operate under for business outside of the formal LLC name. Here are a couple of benefits of DBAs:
New Jersey Secretary of State statutes state a Corporation must maintain a registered agent and a registered office to fulfill statutory requirements. One of the main benefits of using a third-party registered agent service company is that it adds a layer of privacy between the business and the general population. The registered agent receives all documents on a business’s behalf and can mail them to you privately. We recommend Northwest Registered Agent. How do I find out who owns a business in NJ?You can find information on any corporation or business entity in New Jersey or another state by performing a search on the Secretary of State website of the state or territory where that corporation is registered.
How do I find out if a company is registered in NJ?You may check the online registration inquiry to determine if the business is already registered. If you have not registered but are required to have this certificate, you will need to complete Form NJ-REG.
How do I find my NJ business entity identification number?If you don't know your NJ Corporate ID number, you can access it through the Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services' Business Records Service using the "Business Entity Name Search." If you are unable to use this form, contact our Customer Service Center.
How do I find an EIN number in NJ?New Jersey Employer Registration Number
If you are unsure of your EIN, you can locate it on any previously filed tax forms. Your EIN will be listed at the top of Form 941.
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