Be sure that your corporation doesn’t violate the legal requirements for the name it uses.
Dear Fred,
I am forming a new corporation in Florida. What are rules regarding the name of my company?
Ryan K.
Orlando, FL
Dear Ryan,
Your question is a great one because the rules for naming your company are very clear. They may be found in chapter 617, F. S. Pursuant to section 617.0401, F.S., a corporate name must contain the word “corporation” or “incorporated” or the abbreviation, “Corp” or “Inc.” or words or abbreviations of like meaning. The name you choose must clearly indicate that it is a corporation instead of a natural person, unincorporated association, or partnership. The name of the corporation may not contain the word “Company” or its abbreviation, “Co.” Other requirements and rules are that a company’s name may contain the word “Cooperative” or “Co-op” only if the resulting name is distinguishable from the name of any corporation, agricultural cooperative marketing association, or nonprofit cooperative association existing or doing business in this Florida. The name may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a purpose other than that permitted by law or by the company’s Articles of Incorporation and may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is connected with a state or federal government agency or a corporation chartered under the laws of the United States. Company names must be distinguishable from the names of all other entities or filings that are on file with the Division of Corporations, except fictitious name registrations pursuant to section 865.09, F.S., or general partnership registrations pursuant to section 620.8105 and limited liability partnership statements pursuant to section 620.9001, F.S., which are organized, registered, or reserved under Florida law.
I hope this helps.
Fred Gray
President, Gray Systems