INSTRUCTIONS: NAME RESERVATION REQUEST FORM
This form is used to reserve the intended name for a corporation, limited liability company, or a limited partnership that is not yet established in the state of California. You should consider the assistance of an attorney while completing this form.
“Name Reservation Request Form Step 1”
Provide the name, firm name (if applicable), and address for the person using the proposed name at the top of this form. Provide a telephone number a fax number as well.
“Name Reservation Request Form Step 2”
Check the appropriate box in the second section. If you select “Limited Partnership,” make sure you regard the detailed instructions on page 2 for limited partnerships.
“Name Reservation Request Form Step 3”
Enter the intended name for reservation in the third section of this document. Provide a first, second, and third choice. The names cannot reflect a type of business in which the business does not engage. Following these rules while choosing a name:
1. A name for a corporation is considered deceptive if the only difference in the name from an existing name if the corporate ending. The ending of the name must state that the business is a corporation using an appropriate term or abbreviation.
2. An LLC must end with the words “limited liability company” or the abbreviations “LLC” or “L.L.C.” The word “Limited” may be abbreviated “Ltd.,” and the words “Company” may be abbreviated “Co.”
3. A limited partnership must end with the words “Limited Partnership” or the abbreviation “LP” or “L.P.” If the business is a foreign LP, the name must contain the phrase “limited liability limited partnership” or the abbreviation “LLLP” or “L.L.L.P.”
“Name Reservation Request Form Step 4”
The box in the fourth section needs marked if the proposed name is for a suspended or forfeited entity. If so, provide the entity number as well.
“Name Reservation Request Form Step 5”
If this form is submitted in person but you want the response delivered by mail, check the box in section 5.
“Name Reservation Request Form Step 6”
The reserving fee is $10.00 for each name. If the forms are submitted in person, a special handling fee of $10.00 is also required. Make the check payable to the Secretary of State. Send the form to the following address by mail:
Secretary of State
Name Availability Unit
1500 11th Street, 3rd Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
