The Georgia Name Reservation form allows individuals to request a specific name for their business before officially registering it. This process ensures that the chosen name is available and reserved for a limited time, preventing others from using it. To get started, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
When filling out the Georgia Name Reservation form, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here are some things you should and shouldn't do:
Misconceptions about the Georgia Name Reservation form can lead to confusion and frustration. Below are five common misconceptions along with clarifications to ensure a better understanding of the process.
In reality, name reservations cannot be renewed. They expire after 30 days. However, you may reserve the name again for an additional fee of $25.00, provided the name remains available.
This is not correct. The online system only performs a preliminary search. An in-house examiner conducts a detailed search to confirm availability. Official confirmation is necessary to secure the name.
Unfortunately, this is a misunderstanding. The $25.00 fee is nonrefundable, even if the requested name is rejected. A rejection notice will be provided, along with instructions for submitting another request without an additional charge.
This is misleading. If your initial request is rejected, you have 10 days to submit another name choice without incurring another fee. After this period, a new fee will apply.
While the name must include certain words or abbreviations, it does not need to match exactly. The organization name must contain one of the specified terms, but variations in the rest of the name are permitted.
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Partnership Income Tax Rate - Provide accurate taxpayer information for the successful replacement of your check.
What is the purpose of the Georgia Name Reservation form?
The Georgia Name Reservation form allows individuals or businesses to reserve a specific name for their corporation or limited liability company. This reservation prevents others from using the name while you prepare to file for incorporation.
How much does it cost to reserve a name?
The nonrefundable filing fee for reserving a name is $25.00. Payment can be made via check, cashier’s check, or money order made out to the Office of Secretary of State. Online applicants can pay using a credit card or ACH.
How long is the name reservation valid?
Once approved, the name reservation is valid for 30 days. During this period, you can proceed to incorporate using the reserved name.
Can I renew my name reservation?
No, name reservations cannot be renewed. However, you may reserve the name again for another $25.00 if it is still available after the initial reservation expires.
What happens if the name I want is not available?
If the requested name is not available, you will receive a rejection notice via telephone, email, or US mail. The $25.00 fee still applies. The notice will include instructions on how to submit another request without incurring additional charges within 10 days.
How do I submit the Name Reservation Request?
You can submit the Name Reservation Request by mailing the completed form along with your payment to the following address:
OFFICE OF SECRETARY OF STATE Corporations Division Name Reservation Request 313 West Tower, #2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30334
What are the requirements for the name I want to reserve?
The name must include specific terms such as 'Corporation', 'Incorporated', 'Company', 'Limited', or their abbreviations. Ensure that your name choice reflects one of these terms.
How is the availability of my chosen name confirmed?
The online system performs a preliminary search. An in-house examiner will conduct a detailed search to confirm the name's availability. You will receive official notification regarding the status of your name reservation.
Filling out the Georgia Name Reservation form can seem straightforward, but there are common mistakes that applicants often make. One frequent error is not providing the exact name of the organization as required. The form specifies that the name must include certain words or abbreviations like "Corporation," "LLC," or "Limited." Omitting these can lead to rejection.
Another mistake occurs when applicants fail to list multiple name preferences. It’s wise to provide at least three options. If the first choice is unavailable, having alternatives can save time and prevent delays in the reservation process.
Many people overlook the importance of including complete contact information. This includes not just the applicant's name but also a valid email address and phone number. Without this information, the Secretary of State's office may struggle to reach you with important updates or notifications.
Additionally, some applicants forget to double-check the payment method. The filing fee is nonrefundable and must be paid correctly. Whether sending a check or paying online, ensuring the payment is made out correctly to the "Office of Secretary of State" is crucial. Errors here can lead to processing delays.
Another common oversight is not adhering to the 30-day time limit. Once your name is reserved, you must incorporate within that timeframe. Failing to do so means the reservation expires, and you will need to start the process over, which can be frustrating.
Some applicants might also assume that the online preliminary search guarantees name availability. This is a misconception. The online system only performs a basic check. A detailed examination will follow, and the name is not officially reserved until you receive confirmation from the office.
Lastly, applicants sometimes neglect to read the instructions carefully. Each detail in the form is important, and overlooking them can lead to unnecessary complications. Taking the time to review the instructions can make a significant difference in successfully reserving your desired name.