Acquiring Business Name | Business Name Taken

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Inactive business name?

Business name question!
Quick question, I'm trying to apply for a business name and I did a search that revealed that there are already similar names out there - but it's listed as inactive. Does that mean I can still try to file my business under that name? Is there a grace period where the previous owner has to refile and if they don't after a certain amount of time, I can file for it?
  • It depends on the state where the name is or was registered. Some states allow grace periods once names go inactive, while others allow for immediate re-registration of the name once it lapses. I would recommend you contact the Secretary of State office in the state at issue to check regarding the availability of the name
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