Do you have the perfect name idea for a new business entity in the state of Vermont, but you’re not quite ready to form your company?
Vermont allows you to reserve a business name until you’re prepared for the business formation process, but how does the reservation process work and how long will the state reserve the name for you? In this guide, we’ll run down all the important details of reserving a business name in Vermont.
Rocket Tip: If you’d rather officially incorporate in Vermont rather than file the extra paperwork to register a business name, there are many good incorporation services that can do it for you.
How to Reserve a Business Name in Vermont
The first step is to determine if your desired business name is even available in Vermont to begin with. The state has a convenient business name search tool available on the Secretary of State’s website, which you can access here at any time. Once you’ve determined the availability of your desired name, you can begin the process of reserving it with the state.
In Vermont, you can complete the filing process online or by paper. If you want to use a paper form instead, you can request one here. However, you’ll likely find it easiest to use the Online Business Service Center to file your Name Reservation. As part of this process, you’ll need to include some of the following information: Vermont Secretary of State Corporations Division
128 State Street
Montpelier, Vermont 05633-1104
Once you’re finished filling out this form, you will need to pay the $20 filing fee. Online filings can pay by echeck or credit card. If filing by mail, you should include a check made payable to “Vermont Secretary of State.” You can mail your form and payment to the following address:
How Long Is My Business Name Reserved For?
Once you submit your name reservation application, the state of Vermont will reserve your business name for a period of 120 days. If you’re still not ready to form your business entity at the end of that 120-day period, you may submit a renewal request for an additional 120 days. Your business name is eligible for a renewal two times for a total of 360 days. You will need to pay the $120 filing fee each time.
Conclusion
Just because you aren’t ready to form your Vermont business entity doesn’t mean you can’t lock down your desired business name.
If the name you want is available today, there’s no reason to wait until you form your business to reserve it for your exclusive use. The required form is easily filled out with your basic information, and the filing fee is quite affordable, so you should reserve your name today.