Can I use my name for an LLC but use another name for my business?
Asked by: Yessenia Kunze | Last update: February 6, 2026Score: 4.1/5 (42 votes)
You don't have to put your LLC in your business's tradename, brand name, DBA, fictitious name, or any other type of business name you use for marketing. And the LLC name doesn't have to match your website name. In fact, it's common for businesses to use one or more names that are different than their official name.
Can I do business under a different name than my LLC?
Yes, this is commonly done by registering a DBA (Doing Business As) name, which allows you to operate under a different brand or trade name than your LLC's legal name.
Can I add another business name under my LLC?
As mentioned, you can register multiple DBAs under a single LLC. Therefore, you can register multiple DBAs under a single EIN, in the sense that multiple DBAs are associated with a single LLC, each of which has a unique EIN.
What is a layered LLC?
A layered LLC structure, or business entity layering, uses multiple Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) in a hierarchy to separate assets and risks, creating strong legal barriers for asset protection and privacy, like putting different properties or business functions into separate LLCs owned by a parent LLC to shield them from lawsuits or liabilities of another part of the business. It's a sophisticated strategy for real estate investors and entrepreneurs to contain liabilities, protect investments, and manage different business units distinctly, often involving a holding company owning subsidiary LLCs.
What are common LLC naming mistakes?
Common LLC naming mistakes include choosing a name that isn't unique or available, failing to check for trademark conflicts, using restricted words (like "Bank" or "Insurance"), being overly descriptive or too generic, and not verifying digital/domain availability, all of which can lead to rejection, legal issues, or branding problems.
Can My LLC Name Be Different From My Business Name
What should you not use in an LLC name?
You should avoid LLC names that are misleading, offensive, too similar to existing brands, or use restricted words like "Bank," "Trust," or "Insurance" without proper licensing; also steer clear of implying government affiliation or illegal activity and names that are hard to spell or remember, as these can cause legal issues, confusion, or hinder branding.
Should LLC name match business name?
Your LLC name can be different from your business trademark, the name you use to market your business. There's no legal requirement that they match.
Can I run two businesses under one LLC?
Yes, you can absolutely run multiple businesses under a single LLC to save on costs and simplify administration, often by using DBAs (Doing Business As) for different brand names, but you must understand the trade-off: all businesses share the same liability, meaning a lawsuit against one can impact the others, making a separate LLC for each high-risk venture often recommended.
What do you call yourself if you own an LLC?
If you own an LLC, you are legally called a Member, but you can use various public-facing titles like Owner, Managing Member, CEO, President, or Founder, depending on your role, state rules, and desired image, as long as it's not misleading and aligns with your operating agreement.
What is the double LLC strategy?
The double-LLC structure is a legal strategy for business owners seeking privacy, liability protection, and operational flexibility. It involves the formation of two limited liability companies: a holding LLC and an operating LLC.
Can two names go on an LLC?
A limited liability company (LLC) is a business entity type that can have more than one owner. These owners are referred to as “members” and can include individuals, corporations, other LLCs, and foreign entities. Most states do not restrict LLC ownership, and there is generally no maximum number of members.
Why do people put LLC after their business name?
Why do businesses include “LLC” in the name? Including “LLC” helps establish the business as a legally recognized Limited Liability Company. This ensures liability protection for the owners and conveys transparency and professionalism to clients and vendors.
Does having an LLC mean you own a business?
It's the corporation or the LLC that owns the business, its assets, debts, and liabilities. The liability for shareholders (owners of a corporation) or members (owners of an LLC) is limited to their investment.
How do I make sure no one can steal my business name?
How to Protect Your Business Name
- Register your business name. The first step is to register your business with local and state agencies. ...
- Apply for a trademark. Next, you can apply for a federal trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). ...
- Keep detailed records. ...
- Talk to a business lawyer.
How much does it cost to add a name to an LLC?
Limited liability company (LLC): Registering an LLC, including the name, can cost anywhere from $50–$500, depending on the state. Corporation: Incorporating your business, including the name, can cost between $100–$500, based on the state.
Can I pay myself a salary from my LLC?
If you elect to have your LLC be taxed as a corporation, then you can be considered an employee. You can receive a “reasonable” salary. Income taxes, Social Security, Medicare, etc. are withheld.
What if my LLC has no income but expenses?
What if I have no income but have business expenses? If you're a member (owner) of an LLC that has business expenses but no income, you'll often still need to file a federal tax return. This is because expenses, including deductions, are considered a business activity subject to federal reporting requirements.
What is my job title if I own an LLC?
The owner of an LLC is officially called a member, but they can use various titles like Owner, Managing Member, or even corporate titles like CEO, President, or Founder, depending on their role and what the LLC's operating agreement allows. In a manager-managed LLC, an owner might be a managing member, while a non-owner could be just a manager.
How do I add another business name to LLC?
To add a DBA to your LLC, you'll register the alternate business name with your state or local government—a simple process that typically costs under $100.
How many business names can I have under one LLC?
Yes, you can have multiple businesses under one LLC.
You can run two or more businesses under one LLC by either: running all the business activities under one LLC name, or. registering DBAs (“doing business as”), also known as Fictitious Names.
What is the best way to legally structure multiple businesses?
Create individual corporations or LLCs for each business. Put businesses operating with registered fictitious business names (DBAs) under one corporation or LLC. Creating a holding company for multiple businesses.
At what income is an LLC worth it?
There's no magic income number for an LLC; it's more about risk, credibility, and potential tax benefits, but many experts suggest considering one when your business net profit hits $30,000-$60,000, or sooner if you have high personal assets or liability exposure (like selling products that could cause harm). An LLC protects personal assets from business debts and lawsuits, offers tax flexibility (like S-corp election), and boosts professionalism, making it valuable even before substantial income, especially with high risk or significant assets to shield.
What is the lifespan of an LLC?
An LLC can operate indefinitely as long as it continues to comply with legal requirements and maintain its business activities. Unlike some business structures, an LLC has no predefined expiration date. However, its duration may be subject to state regulations and the terms specified in its operating agreement.
Can I have a different business name under my LLC?
If you want your LLC to conduct business under a name other than the official LLC name, you must register the additional name as a DBA in most states. Some states have statewide DBA registration, while in others, you must register a DBA with your local city or county. A few states don't require DBA registration.