North Carolina Fictitious Name Registration & Renewal

Registration requirements for North Carolina business entities

Business entities that plan to use a name other than their legal business name may need to register an assumed name. Assumed name registration can take place at the state, local, or state and local levels of government. State specific registration information is available below.

Initial Application for Registration

Is registration mandatory?:	Filing an assumed name registration is required for any person or entity intending to conduct business under a fictitious name.
Law:	NC Gen. St. § 66-71.4
County Level Filing:	Assumed names are only filed at the county level in North Carolina.
Does registration prevent others from using the name I choose?:	Registration of an assumed name does not offer name protection.
Notes:	File with the register of deeds in the county where you engage in business. Entities conducting business in more than one county must only file in one county.

Renewal Filing

Not required

Revised March 17, 2017. Complete data last reviewed March 17, 2017.