I have a lawyer type question-Naming a corporation

[curses]

My CPA has suggested that I set up an S Corp (we discussed it at tax time, so it's not just out of the blue). I currently use my first and last name as my business name and for freelance photographers this is generally how we work.

Ye Olde Legale Zoome is asking me to choose a name (I'm pretty sure all corps have some version of Inc tacked on). I'd like to continue using my first and last name for business. Do I make up another name and then do a DBA?

Not sure if any of our lovely law types know the ins and outs but I thought I'd ask here first cause you guys are lovely and stuff. I can pay you in !

[JoeP]

Corpy McCorporationface. You're welcome.

[ShottleBop]

Depends on the state, I think. In at least some states, you don't need to use "inc." or "Corp." at all. Here are California's, for example: http://bpd.cdn.sos.ca.gov/be/forms/n...strictions.pdf

Be sure to check availability beforehand--someone else may already be using the name you want. Using a dba can be a PITA--depending on the jurisdiction, it may require filing, and publication of notice, in a county or two. (Checking name availability before finalizing your articles will also let you know whether you need to add an "Inc." or the like to your name.)

[Ymir's blood]

CarsonoGenic Corp.

[curses]

Thank you for the one serious reply and then you other asshat bastards get a as well.

Tried to look on the Secretary of State website, which was of no help. My CPA said Georgia must have the suffix, but that I don't have to use it on anything that's not legal.

[curses]

Originally Posted by Ymir's blood

CarsonoGenic Corp.

No business card big enough to contain the Cee.

[ShottleBop]

According to LegalZoom's own guide to forming a Georgia corporation:

All corporation names must include the words “corporation,” “incorporated,” “company” or “limited,” or the abbreviations “corp.,” “inc.,” “co.,” or “ltd.”

Also:

A corporation name cannot be more than 80 characters long, including spaces and punctuation.

So, curses, I hope your name is reasonably short.

[Ari]

This Is not a Shell Corp.
Drugs Drugs and More Drugs Inc.
Curse you LLC.
Live Hot Nude Platypuses Inc.

My one non-lawyer thought, if you use your name, attach on something, "photography", "art", "design" to distinguish the Inc from your person.

[JoeP]

Originally Posted by ShottleBop

According to LegalZoom's own guide to forming a Georgia corporation:

Everything But The Kitchen S Inc.

[JoeP]

Originally Posted by ShottleBop

Also:

Francesco Antonio José de Lorenzana y Buitrón, Archbishop of Toledo, Primate of Spain, and Ambassador of King Charles IV to the Holy See Inc.


It's not often we need a :sadprimate: smilie.

[curses]

I love you guys, seriously.

Also Ari, that is a good thought, thanks!

Shottlebop, the 80 character limit almost seems like a challenge.

[BrotherMan]

[quote=ShottleBop;1263258]Also:

A corporation name cannot be more than 80 characters long, including spaces and punctuation.

You get to choose your own logo! (From one of these prechosened designs.)

[curses]

Aw man those LTD wagons. Brings back the childhood memories.

[catchthisdrift]

Use your own name and add "Photography" at the end. And, if your state requires it, then "inc" or whatever.

That way people only have to remember your name when searching for you on the web, or making recommendations to other people.

You might want to talk to your CPA about an LLC, too.