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Name availability · MA

Massachusetts business name search

In Massachusetts, the Corporations Division's search lets you look up an entity name using Begins with, Exact match, Full text or Soundex. The Division recommends checking both the corporate database and the separate name reservation database for a preliminary read on availability. DBAs (business certificates) are handled by cities and towns.

How to check if a name is available in Massachusetts

  1. 01

    Search the corporate database

    Open the Corporations Division search and choose Entity Name.

  2. 02

    Use Soundex and Full text

    Besides Begins with and Exact match, Massachusetts offers Full text (your words anywhere in a name) and Soundex (names that sound alike). Run all four for a thorough check.

  3. 03

    Search the name reservation database

    Reserved names are kept in a separate database. Search it too, since a name reserved by someone else is held for their exclusive use.

  4. 04

    Ask your city or town clerk about DBAs

    Business certificates are filed locally, so check with the clerk where you'll operate.

  5. 05

    Check trademarks and online handles

    The Corporations Division also has a state trademark search. Add a federal check at https://tmsearch.uspto.gov/ and confirm the domain and social handles.

  6. 06

    Generate options

    If Soundex turns up sound-alikes, our free /business-name-generator/ can help you find something more distinct.

Massachusetts business naming rules

  • An LLC name must include "limited liability company," "limited company," or L.L.C., L.C., LLC or LC.
  • Check both the corporate database and the name reservation database for a preliminary read on availability.
  • A business that operates under any name other than its legal name must file a business certificate (DBA) with its city or town.
  • For a corporation, the "legal name" is the name used when incorporating; for a sole proprietor, it's the owner's legal name.

Reserving a name

Massachusetts reserves an available name for the applicant's exclusive use for 60 days, under M.G.L. c. 156D, s. 4.02, using the Application of Reservation of Name. Check the current fee on the agency's site.

DBAs and trade names

Massachusetts DBAs are called business certificates and are filed with the city or town where the business is located.

Still looking for the right name?

Brainstorm dozens of options with the free generator, then run your shortlist through the Massachusetts search above.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I search business names in Massachusetts?

Use the Corporations Division search by entity name, trying Begins with, Exact match, Full text and Soundex. Then search the name reservation database.

Where do I get a DBA in Massachusetts?

From the city or town where your business is located. Massachusetts calls it a business certificate.

How long does a Massachusetts name reservation last?

60 days of exclusive use once the Corporations Division finds the name available.

What is a Soundex search?

It finds names that sound like yours even when they're spelled differently, which helps you spot names customers could confuse.

General information, not legal advice. Name approval is decided by the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Corporations Division; a name showing as available in a search is not a guarantee it will be accepted.