How Do I Check LLC Name Availability in New Jersey?

Q: How do I check if my LLC name is available in New Jersey?

A: Use the free online business name search tool at https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessNameSearch/Search/BusinessName operated by the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. Your LLC name must be distinguishable from all active or reserved entity names on file. If available, you can reserve the name for 120 days by paying a $50 fee.

Conducting Your Name Search

Access the state's searchable database at https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessNameSearch/Search/BusinessName at no cost. Results show whether your proposed name conflicts with existing registrations instantly.

Your LLC name must satisfy two requirements:

Include a required designator: "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." (N.J.S.A. 42:2C-8)
Be distinguishable from other active or reserved names in the Division's records

The search tool compares your proposed name against the entire state database. Even minor differences in spelling, punctuation, or word order may satisfy the distinguishability standard, but the Division makes the final determination.

Restricted Words & Name Reservation

Certain words are prohibited or restricted under N.J.S.A. 42:2C-8, including "Bank," "Trust," "Insurance," and terms implying state or federal agency affiliation. Verify your name does not use these restricted terms before filing.

If your search confirms availability, reserve the name for 120 days by filing a Name Reservation application with a $50 fee through https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessFormation/Home/Welcome. This locks in your chosen name while you prepare your Articles of Organization.

Next Steps After Approval

Once your LLC is formed, if you plan to operate under a different name, file a DBA (Doing Business As) registration with the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services for an additional $50 fee.

Contact the Division:

Phone: (609) 292-9292
Website: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/revenue/
Address: 33 West State St., 5th Floor, Trenton, NJ 08608

This is general information, not legal advice.