Company Suffix Requirements by State
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Swyft Filings is committed to providing accurate, reliable information to help you make informed decisions for your business. That's why our content is written and edited by professional editors, writers, and subject matter experts. Learn more about how Swyft Filings works, our editorial team and standards, what our customers think of us, and more on our trust page.
When creating an organization, states have requirements regarding business name endings. All states require company suffixes to differentiate organizations from natural or human persons. However, not all states allow business abbreviations, such as “LLC” instead of “Limited Liability Company.” To add to this, many states have designated words that are prohibited either altogether or without authorization. This guide provides information on the requirements for nonprofit and company suffixes in all 50 states.
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Alabama
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Alabama requires the use of “Incorporated” or “Corporation.” Companies may also use an abbreviation of the same.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Words that are prohibited without authorization include “Olympic,” “Engineering,” “Engineer,” “Banc,” “Bank” and “Banking.”
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Professional Corporation” is mandatory and may be abbreviated as “PC” or “P.C.”
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
“Limited Liability Company” is mandatory and may be abbreviated as “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Alaska
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Alaska requires the inclusion of “Company,” “Limited” or “Incorporated.”
Prohibited Words
Any word implying the business corporation is a municipality is prohibited. These include the words “City” and “Village.” Vulgar words or phrases are also prohibited.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” is mandatory and it may be abbreviated as “LLC” or “L.L.C.” The words “Limited” and “Company” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Co.”
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Arizona
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
In Arizona, the use of “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Association,” “Limited” or a relevant abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory. Authorized banks must include the word “Bank.”
Prohibited Words
Companies that are not banks cannot include the words “Bank,” “Credit Union,” “Trust,” “Deposit” or “Trust Company” in their names. No business corporation can include “Limited Liability Company” in its name or any abbreviation or word of similar meaning.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Professional Corporations must choose from any of the following words or use qualified abbreviations meaning the same:
Professional Association
Professional Corporation
Service Corporation
Chartered
Limited
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company,” "LC," "LLC," "L.L.C." or "L.C." is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
LLCs cannot include the indicators or abbreviations from other types of companies, such as “Corp” or “PC.” They also cannot use terms related to banking unless actively engaged in banking.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Arkansas
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Arkansas requires the use of “Company,” “Corporation” or “Incorporated.”
Prohibited Words
If the word “and” or its symbol comes before the final abbreviation or word in the business name, then it cannot end with “Company” or “Co.”
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Chartered” or “Professional Association” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company,” "LC," "LLC," "L.L.C." or "L.C." is mandatory. LLCs may also abbreviate the words “Company” and “Limited” as “Co.” and “Ltd.”
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
California
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
There are no specific business suffix requirements for general stock corporations in California. Close corporations must include the words “Limited,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a relevant abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Corporations cannot use words related to banking or trusts without authorization from the Commissioner of Financial Institutions. The word “Olympic” is also prohibited.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Regulatory agencies that hold jurisdiction over particular professions dictate style requirements for those professions.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
The name must include the words “Limited Liability Company” or a relevant abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
LLCs cannot use words related to banking or trusts without authorization from the Commissioner of Financial Institutions. LLCs cannot use “Corporation” or any related abbreviations.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Colorado
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory in Colorado.
Prohibited Words
Terms that may violate existing statutes in the state are prohibited. Specifically prohibited words include “Bank,” “Trustee,” “Trust” and “Olympic” unless the business is authorized to use these.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
These entities are specifically permitted to use “Professional Corporation” or a suitable abbreviation indicating the same.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Terms that may violate existing statutes in the state are prohibited. Specifically prohibited words include “Bank,” “Trustee,” “Trust” and “Olympic” unless the business is authorized to use these. Also, the word “Cooperative” cannot appear in the name.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Nonprofits are allowed but not required to use the terms “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation meaning the same.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Connecticut
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Connecticut requires the inclusion of “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited,” “Societa per Azioni” or an appropriate abbreviation in English or another language.
Prohibited Words
Any language implying the company was organized for any other reason than what is implied in its articles of organization is prohibited.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation” or “P.C.” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” is mandatory and it may be abbreviated as “LLC” or “L.L.C.” The words “Limited” and “Company” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Co.”
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Using “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or an appropriate abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Delaware
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Delaware requires business corporations to choose one company suffix from these available options:
Corporation
Company
Syndicate
Limited
Foundation
Association
Fund
Club
Society
Institute
Companies may also use related business abbreviations in English or from a foreign jurisdiction, with or without appropriate punctuation. The language from a foreign jurisdiction must still be written in Roman characters.
Prohibited Words
A business corporation cannot use the word “Bank” or any similar terms unless it is an authorized financial institution.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Association,” “P.A.” or “Chartered” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Professional Corporations cannot use the words “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or any of its abbreviated forms. Affixes or prefixes implying that it is a business corporation are also prohibited.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” is mandatory and it may be abbreviated as “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Florida
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Florida requires businesses to include any appropriate suffix that indicates the business is a company and not a natural person or any other type of entity. Options include “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or any acceptable business abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The name cannot include language to imply the business was created for an impermissible purpose or that it is or is associated with a government agency or chartered corporation. All terms related to banking are specifically prohibited unless it is an authorized financial institution.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Professional Association,” “P.A,” “PA” or “Chartered” is a mandatory company suffix.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
It must contain the term “Limited Liability Company” or an acceptable abbreviation to indicate that it is not a natural person or any other type of organization.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Florida requires businesses to include any appropriate suffix that indicates the business is a company and not a natural person or any other type of entity. Options include “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or an acceptable abbreviation. The name may also include the word “Cooperative” or “Co-op” if the final name does not create confusion with existing entities.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Georgia
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or a suitable abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory in Georgia. The entire name, including spaces and characters, should not surpass 80 characters.
Prohibited Words
Obscene language and any terms indicating the business operates in an impermissible capacity are prohibited. Words related to banking and sureties are prohibited unless the company received approval from the Department of Banking and Finance. The use of “College” and “University” also require special authorization.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation,” “Professional Association” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
“Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory. The entire name, including spaces and characters, should not surpass 80 characters.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Hawaii
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Limited,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a suitable abbreviation is a mandatory suffix in Hawaii.
Prohibited Words
Words and terms related to banking, insurance, and the Olympics require special authorization and are strictly prohibited otherwise. Hawaii also strictly prohibits any language that implies a corporation is a government municipality, an agency or affiliated with either one.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using any term permitted by law that expressly relates to the service provided or the professional field the corporation is engaged in is acceptable.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” is mandatory and it may be abbreviated as “LLC” or “L.L.C.” The words “Limited” and “Company” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Co.” Only letters from the English alphabet can be used in the word “Limited Liability Company.”
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Idaho
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Company,” “Corporation” or “Incorporated” is mandatory in Idaho.
Prohibited Words
If the word “and” or its symbol comes before the final abbreviation or word, then it cannot end with “Company” or “Co.” Idaho also prohibits any language that implies an entity is organized for anything but its permissible purpose or that implies an affiliation with the government.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Chartered,” “Professional Corporation,” “Professional Association” or a suitable abbreviation in English or another language is permissible.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits any language that implies the company is organized for anything but its permissible purpose and that implies an affiliation with the government.
LLC Suffix Requirements
“Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory. LLCs may also abbreviate the words “Company” and “Limited” as “Co.” and “Ltd.” Professional entities may indicate this status by using either a “P” or the word “Professional” before “Limited.”
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation and Professional Corporation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Illinois
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or a relevant abbreviation is mandatory in Illinois.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the business is a financial institution or insurance company unless it is. Only if the Corporate Fiduciary Act authorizes a company to act in this capacity can its name include language implying that it can provide fiduciary services.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Chartered,” “Professional Corporation,” “Limited” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Low-profit LLCs should include the term “L3C.” All other companies should include the term “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” It may contain the word “Trust” when the business is organized to execute or accept trusts.
Prohibited Words
An LLC cannot use terms that might imply it is a business corporation or professional corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or a relevant abbreviation is mandatory in Illinois. Also, the name must end with the term “NFP” if there is anything in the name to imply it may not be a nonprofit business.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Indiana
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or an abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory in Indiana.
Prohibited Words
Indiana prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation,” “Professional Service Corporation” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory. A licensing authority may dictate additional requirements.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. A Professional Corporation cannot use the term “medical” in its name unless all of the physicians and shareholders are licensed under IC 25-22.5.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” is mandatory and it may be abbreviated as “LLC” or “L.L.C.” Note that there are additional naming requirements regarding master LLCs and series LLCs.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Iowa
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Association,” “Limited,” or a relevant abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation” or “P.C.” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Any words that would not be lawful in the state the individual or partnership is licensed to practice in is prohibited in Iowa.
LLC Suffix Requirements
“Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory. LLCs may also abbreviate the words “Company” and “Limited” as “Co.” and “Ltd.”
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Kansas
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Kansas requires business corporations to choose one appropriate word from the following:
Association
Church
Union
Foundation
Syndicate
Company
Corporation
Incorporated
Limited
Club
Society
Fund
College
University
Institute
An abbreviation in English or another language is acceptable as long as the name uses Roman characters.
Prohibited Words
References to banks and banking cannot be used by unauthorized entities.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Association,” “P.A.” or “Chartered” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Kentucky
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Company,” “Corporation,” “Limited” or a relevant abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Professional Service Corporation” or “P.S.C.” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
“Professional Liability Companies” is the mandatory ending for LLCs that fit this title description. “PLC” or “PLLC” are appropriate abbreviations.
If the company operates under a DBA, the real business’s name must end with “Limited Company,” “Limited Liability Company,” “LC” or “LLC.” LLCs may abbreviate the words “Company” and “Limited.”
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
If the word “and” or its symbol comes before the final abbreviation or word, then it cannot end with “Company” or “Co.”
Louisiana
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or an appropriate abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory in Louisiana, with or without punctuation. All characters must be English.
Prohibited Words
Terms related to specific businesses, industries or licensed professions cannot be used without permission from related agencies.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Requirements vary per industry.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Low-profit LLCs should include the term “Low-Profit Limited Liability Company'' or an appropriate abbreviation. All other LLCs should include the term “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.” or “L.C.”
Prohibited Words
Language that deceives or falsely implies the entity is a charitable organization is prohibited. Terms related to specific businesses, industries or licensed professions cannot be used without permission from related agencies.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Nonprofit organizations can use a name in any language as long as it is expressed in English characters.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Maine
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirement
Maine has no explicit naming requirements for C-Corps.
Prohibited Words
Corporations cannot use language that implies the business is organized for an impermissible purpose. This includes terms related to banking, trusts, and finances.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Association,” “Professional Corporation,” “Service Corporation,” “Chartered” or any qualified abbreviation meaning the same is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Unless the company is filing under 1510 for an assumed name or 1511 for a foreign entity, low-profit LLCs should include the term “L3C” or “l3c.” All other LLCs should include the term “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.” or “L.C.”
Prohibited Words
Language falsely implying an LLC is associated with a government agency, that promotes unlawful behavior, that promotes abusive behavior or that is obscene is prohibited.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Maryland
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Maryland requires the word “Company” if the word “and” or its symbol does not immediately precede it. Otherwise, the word “Corporation,” “Limited” or “Incorporated” becomes mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Corporations cannot use language that implies the business is organized for an impermissible purpose. This includes terms related to banking, trusts, and finances.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Association,” “P.A.,” “Chartered” or “Chtd” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Massachusetts
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Massachusetts requires the use of the term “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation,” “Limited,” an appropriate English abbreviation or an abbreviation of similar meaning in another language.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
The state secretary may set regulations regarding suffix requirements. In most instances, using “Corporation,” “Professional Corporation” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
The name must include some indication that it is a corporation. Exceptions are made for religious societies.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Michigan
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Michigan requires the use of “Limited,” “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or an appropriate abbreviation, with or without periods.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. This includes any terms related to banking, sureties, trusts, and finances.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Mandatory suffixes include “Professional Corporation” or an appropriate abbreviation, with or without punctations.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Low-profit LLCs should include the term “Low-Profit Limited Liability Company'' or an appropriate abbreviation, with or without punctuations. All other companies should include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. LLCs cannot use “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a related abbreviation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific naming requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Minnesota
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Company,” “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
If the word “and” or its symbol comes before the final abbreviation or word, then it cannot end with “Company” or “Co.” Minnesota prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. This includes any terms related to banking, sureties, trusts, and finances.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
S-Corps must choose a business suffix from the following list or use an appropriate abbreviation:
Professional Corporation
Professional Association
Professional Service Corporation
Service Corporation
Limited
Chartered
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory. The name must be written in English characters but can be a foreign language.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. LLCs cannot use “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or abbreviations of these.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Using “Company,” “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or an appropriate abbreviation is optional.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Mississippi
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Mississippi requires the use of “Company,” “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or an appropriate abbreviation in English or another language.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. This includes terms related to banking, trusts, insurance, and finances.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Mandatory suffixes include “Professional Association,” “Professional Corporation” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. This includes terms related to banking, trusts, insurance, and finances. Also, “Incorporated,” “Corporation” and associated abbreviations are prohibited.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Missouri
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Missouri requires the use of “Company,” “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or a suitable abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Organizations need special authorization to use the words “Cooperative,” “Insurance Company,” “Bank” and “Redevelopment.” Any language implying the organization is a government agency is prohibited.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
It must include “Professional Corporation” or “P.C.”
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include “Limited Company,” “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Language falsely or deceptively implying the company is a charitable organization or a nonprofit is strictly prohibited. LLCs cannot include the following terms or any related abbreviations:
Incorporated
Corporations
Limited Liability Limited Partnership
Limited Partnership
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Montana
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or an appropriate abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory in Montana.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. No language implying the entity is anything other than a corporation is permitted.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation” or “P.C.” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. S-Corp names cannot include any language that implies the business is anything other than a PC unless it is a foreign entity that already included “Professional Services” or “P.S.” in its name.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include “Limited Company,” “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. LLCs may also abbreviate the words “Company” and “Limited ” as “Co.” and “Ltd.”
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. LLCs cannot include the following terms or any associated abbreviations:
Incorporated
Corporation
Limited Liability Limited Partnership
Limited Partnership
Limited
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nebraska
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Limited,” “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory in Nebraska. There is an exception for corporations that are authorized by the Nebraska Banking Act to conduct banking business. These companies can use the word “Bank” instead.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Only authorized entities can use terms related to banking.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation” or “P.C.” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include “Limited Company,” “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nevada
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
In Nevada, if a business has a name that sounds like that of a natural person, it must include “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited,” “Corporation,” a suitable abbreviation or any word that makes it clear the business is not a natural person.
Prohibited Words
The following words are prohibited without authorization:
Insurance
Trust
Bank
Professional Engineer
Licensed Engineer
Registered Engineer
Engineering
Engineered
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation,” “Chartered” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
“Limited Liability Company, “ “Limited-Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “Limited” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory. The word Company may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
LLCs must receive consent from the relevant agencies to use terms related to homeowners associations or any licensed professions. Otherwise, the use of such terms is prohibited.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
New Hampshire
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
New Hampshire requires the use of “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or a suitable abbreviation in English or another language.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Using “Farmer’s Market” is prohibited without authorization.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
The name must end with “Professional Association,” “Professional Corporation” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
New Jersey
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
New Jersey requires the use of “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Corporation,” an abbreviation of one of these words, the specific abbreviation “Ltd.” or any abbreviation of similar meaning in another language. Foreign companies that do not have these suffixes already added to their name must make this change to operate within the state.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Using the name of a company that has been dissolved for less than a year is prohibited. Terms related to banking are prohibited without authorization.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation,” “Professional Association,” “Chartered” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
Any abbreviation, word or phrase that does not comply with other statues or which is restricted is prohibited unless the LLC meets requirements for restricted use.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Nonprofits must include “Incorporated,” “Corporation,” “a New Jersey Nonprofit Corporation” or a relevant abbreviation. Exceptions are made for nonprofits that are eligible for organization under Title 16 of the Revised Statutes and its provisions.
Prohibited Words
There are no strictly prohibited words.
New Mexico
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory in New Mexico.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Terms related to banking are off-limits.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Chartered,” “Professional Corporation,” “Professional Association” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
New York
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
New York makes it mandatory to use “Limited,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a relevant abbreviation. Foreign companies that do not have these suffixes already added to their name must make this change to operate within the state.
Prohibited Words
Terms related to specific businesses, industries or licensed professions cannot be used without permission from related agencies. No language considered derogatory or obscene or that implies illegal activity can be used. Organizations require authorization to use terms related to banking.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Prohibited Words
Terms related to specific businesses, industries or licensed professions cannot be used without permission from related agencies.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” is mandatory and it may be abbreviated as “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
Prohibited Words
Terms related to specific businesses, industries or licensed professions cannot be used without permission from related agencies. Specific words LLCs cannot use include the following:
Urban Relocation
Tenant Relocation
Urban Development
State Trooper
State Police
Community Renewal
Chamber of Commerce
Board of Trade
Incorporated
Corporation
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
“Limited,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or suitable abbreviations are required unless an organization meets the following requirements:
Formed for purposes that the public health and health planning council or the commissioner of social services must provide approval for
Formed for religious purposes
Formed for charitable purposes
Is a bar association
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
North Carolina
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
North Carolina requires entities to use “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation,” “Limited” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Terms related to banking and farming are prohibited without authorization.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Professional Corporations may use specific designations provided under Chapter 55D. They may also use “Professional Corporation,” “Professional Association” or a relevant abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a qualified abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
North Dakota
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
North Dakota requires that the full name must be written in English characters or those that appear in the ASCII standard. Mandatory suffix options include “Corporation,” “Limited,” “Incorporated,” “Company” or a relevant abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The name cannot include language to imply it was created for an impermissible purpose. Corporations cannot use the following terms or any related abbreviations:
Limited Partnership
Limited Liability Partnership
Limited Liability Company
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Limited,” “Professional Association,” “Professional Corporation,” “Chartered” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
The name cannot include language to imply it was created for an impermissible purpose. The full name must be written in English characters or those that appear in the ASCII standard. “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
The name cannot include language to imply it was created for an impermissible purpose. LLCs can not use terms designated for corporations. They also cannot use “Limited Liability Partnership,” “Limited Partnership” or abbreviations associated with these.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
The full name must be written in English characters or those that appear in the ASCII standard. Use of “Limited,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or an abbreviation meaning the same is permitted but not mandatory.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Ohio
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Ohio requires that the corporation’s name end with “Company,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated” or a suitable abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Any language indicating that the organization is affiliated with any U.S. state or federal government agency is prohibited. Entities cannot use the words “Trust” or “Bank” without authorization.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Oklahoma
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Oklahoma requires business corporations to choose one appropriate word from the following:
Association
Union
Foundation
Syndicate
Company
Corporation
Incorporated
Limited
Club
Society
Institute
Fund
An abbreviation in English or another language is acceptable as long as the company uses Roman characters. The use of punctuation is permitted.
Prohibited Words
Entities must meet special requirements to use “Building and Loan,” “Savings and Loan,” “Savings Bank” and “Savings Association.”
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Professional corporations must use one or more abbreviations or words permitted in any associated acts that are applicable. The words need to be modified by the word “Professional” and a suitable abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no specifically prohibited words.
Oregon
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Oregon requires the use of one or more business suffixes. Options include “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation,” “Limited” or an appropriate abbreviation. Incidental punctuation is allowed. Letter characters must be from the English alphabet. Numerals must be Roman or Arabic.
Prohibited Words
The word “Cooperative” is prohibited. Unauthorized use of the words “Trust” and “Bank” is prohibited.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Corporation,” “Prof. Corp.” or “P.C.” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.” or “LLC” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Obscene language is prohibited. Specifically prohibited terms include “Limited Liability Partnership,” “Limited Partnership” and any related abbreviations. LLCs also cannot use terms designated for corporations.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Letter characters must be from the English alphabet. Numerals must be Roman or Arabic.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Pennsylvania
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Pennsylvania requires business corporations to choose from “Limited,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a suitable abbreviation. In lieu of this, business corporations can choose from “Fund,” “Association,” “Syndicate” or any words or abbreviations that mean something similar.
Prohibited Words
Terms related to specific businesses, industries or licensed professions cannot be used without permission from related agencies. The use of language that is considered derogatory or obscene is prohibited. Using language that implies or promotes illegal activity is prohibited. Specifically prohibited words include “School,” “Insurance,” “Engineer,” “Banker,” “Banking,” “Bank” and “Trust.”
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
The word “and” or any symbol of like meaning is permitted for use with the terms “Associates” and “P.C.”
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Limited Liability Company,” “Company,” another word of similar meaning or an acceptable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Rhode Island
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Rhode Island requires “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or a suitable abbreviation as a business suffix, with or without punctuation.
Prohibited Words
The unauthorized use of “Trust” and “Bank” is prohibited.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
It is mandatory to choose from one of the following options:
Limited
Professional Corporation
Incorporated
Corporation
Ltd.
P.C.
PC
Inc.
Corp.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Low-profit LLCs must include “Low-Profit Limited Liability Liability Company,” “L3C” or “l3c.” Using “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC,” “l.l.c.” or “LLC” is mandatory for all other LLCs.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
South Carolina
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
South Carolina requires business corporations to choose a suffix from “Limited,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a related abbreviation in English or another language.
Prohibited Words
No language considered indecent, derogatory or obscene is permitted. Language implying or stating illegal activity is also prohibited.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Chartered,” “Professional Association,” “Professional Corporation,” “Service Corporation” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
South Dakota
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
South Dakota requires business corporations to choose a suffix from “Limited,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a related abbreviation in English or another language.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Tennessee
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
In Tennessee, business corporations must choose a suffix from “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or a related abbreviation in English or another language. Abbreviations from another language must still be written in Roman characters. Authorized banks and insurance companies do not need to include these suffixes in their names.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Language that implies any of the following is also prohibited:
The entity is affiliated with, is sponsored by or is a subdivision of a Tennessee or federal government agency without written certification.
The entity is affiliated with a charitable, professional, religious, fraternal, service or veteran-related service without written certification.
The entity does business that requires authorization and has no such authorization.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Service Corporation,” “Professional Association,” Professional Corporation” or an appropriate abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable substitute or abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory. Words or abbreviations taken from a foreign language must still be written in Roman characters.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Texas
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Texas requires the use of “Limited,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation,” “Company” or a suitable abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Professional Association,” “Association,” “Associated,” “Associates” or an abbreviated form of one of these words is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Both foreign and domestic LLCs must include “Limited Company,” “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Utah
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
In Utah, business corporations must choose a business suffix from “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company” or words or abbreviations of similar meaning in English or another language. Exceptions are made for depository institutions.
Prohibited Words
Utah prohibits any unauthorized use of suffixes related to tertiary education, such as “College,” “University,” “Institution” or “Institute” without written consent. Terms specifically related to the Olympics are prohibited without authorization. The state also prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
The use of “Professional Corporation” or “P.C.” is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include “Limited Company,” “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. LLCs may also abbreviate the words “Company” and “Limited” as “Co.” and “Ltd.”
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. It also prohibits any unauthorized use of suffixes related to tertiary education, such as “College,” “University,” “Institution” or “Institute” without written consent. Terms specifically related to the Olympics are prohibited without authorization. Finally, LLCs cannot use the following words:
Limited Partnership
Limited
Association
Incorporated
Corporation
Any abbreviations of these terms are also prohibited.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Nonprofits have optional suffixes to consider. “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Corporation” or relevant abbreviations of the same are the available choices.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Vermont
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
“Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or a suitable abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory in Vermont.
Prohibited Words
Corporations cannot use language that implies the business is organized for an impermissible purpose. The use of words not authorized by the law is prohibited. The word “Cooperative” or any related abbreviation is prohibited unless the organization is actually a cooperative.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Professional Corporations must choose from the following list of suffixes:
Professional Association
Professional Corporation
Service Corporation
Limited
P.A.
P.C.
S.C.
LTD.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Low-profit LLCs should include the term “L3C” in the name. All other companies should include the term “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “L.C.” “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Virginia
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
The use of “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Limited” or another appropriate word or abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory in Virginia.
Prohibited Words
Only corporations that actually work in urban redevelopment can use the term “Redevelopment.” Corporations cannot use any language that implies their business operations include any services listed in § 13.1-620 unless they actually do.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Professional Corporations must use “a Professional Corporation,” “Professional Corporation,” “P.C.” or “PC” as a suffix. Organizers should also note any requirements in subsection A of § 13.1-630.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include “Limited Company,” “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
LLCs cannot use terms that are designated for corporations. They also cannot use “Limited Partnership” or any of its abbreviated forms.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no strictly prohibited words.
Washington
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited,” “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory in Washington. If the company is formed for a social purpose, then it must indicate this by using “Social Purpose Corporation,” “S.P.C.” or “SPC” in the name.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Terms related to banking, trusts, and cooperatives are prohibited or require authorization. Combining two or more terms from the following list is prohibited or requires special authorization:
Society
Building
Loan
Association
Saving
Home
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Mandatory suffixes to choose from include “Professional Corporation,” “Professional Service,” “P.C.” and “P.S.” S-Corps may also use terms designated for C-Corps in their names.
When the company provides dental services, it must include the names of shareholders and the suffix “Professional Services,” “Chartered,” “P.S.” or P.C.”
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
Using “Limited Liability Company” or a suitable abbreviation is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Terms related to banking, trusts, and cooperatives are prohibited or require authorization. Combining two or more terms from the following list is prohibited or requires special authorization:
Society
Building
Loan
Association
Saving
Home
LLCs also cannot use any of the following words or their related abbreviations:
Incorporated
Corporation
Limited Liability Limited Partnership
Limited Partnership
Limited
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements, but nonprofits may choose from the following list or any words that have a similar meaning:
A Nonprofit Mutual Corporation
A Nonprofit Corporation
Association
Foundation
Society
Guild
Committee
League
Club
Services
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
West Virginia
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
In West Virginia, the use of “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or a suitable abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. This includes the use of the words “Doctor” and “Engineer.”
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Wisconsin
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Using “Corporation,” “Company,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or a suitable abbreviation in English or another language is mandatory in Wisconsin.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose.
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
S-Corps must choose from the following list of suffixes:
Service Corporation
Limited
Chartered
S.C.
Ltd.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation.
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
Same as Business Corporation.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Wyoming
Business Corporation (C-Corp) Suffix Requirements
Wyoming currently has no business suffix requirements for C-Corps.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. Wyoming prohibits words related to education and financing without authorization, such as “Education,” “Banking,” “College” or “School.”
Professional Corporation (S-Corp) Suffix Requirements
The name of the S-Corp must end with “A Professional Corporation” or “P.C.”
Prohibited Words
Same as Business Corporation.
LLC Suffix Requirements
LLCs must include the term “Limited Liability Company” or an appropriate abbreviation. “Limited” and “Company” may also be abbreviated.
Prohibited Words
The state prohibits the use of any words that imply the entity was created for an impermissible purpose. LLCs cannot use terms that imply they are nonprofit organizations, statutory close corporations or corporations.
Nonprofit Corporation Suffix Requirements
There are no specific requirements.
Prohibited Words
There are no explicitly prohibited words.
Ready To Name Your Business? Swyft Can Help!
Naming your business or nonprofit is one of the most important branding decisions you can make. However, it is all too easy to run afoul of the many different company suffixes states require. This is especially a concern for companies that intend to operate across state lines.
Even without suffixes to consider, a business name that is available in one state may not be available in another. Laws also change constantly, so it’s important to seek professional advice before making a final decision.
Our free business search tool can help. Contact us for more information at (877) 777-0450.
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