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Do I Have to Have a Business Name to Do Business?

Do I Have to Have a Business Name to Do Business?

By Nina Kaufman, Esq.

I had a post from “Explorer,” who is starting a new venture (Congratulations!). Explorer was wondering if it’s OK to do business without a company name at the start, as she hasn’t registered one yet. For anyone else who might have the same question, here’s how I responded: In the U.S., there’s generally no requirement that you register a company name before you start doing business; provided that you are doing business under your own, personal name and not a made-up one, such as Exploring Blogosphere. Just make sure that you’re consistent: if you’re using a “fictitious” name for business, register it and use that name in your RFPs (or contracts). If you’re going by your own name, use that. Whether you want to do business under your own name, and possibly expose yourself to personal liability, is a whole other issue. Check out my article, “The Top 5 Reasons to Avoid Sole Proprietorship” and consult with an attorney in your area to help you decide what’s best for you. You deserve to be paid,…

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Nina Kaufman

Flying solo doesn’t have to mean going it alone.

I’m Nina Kaufman.

I know first-hand that running a knowledge-based service business has unique challenges. It’s so much easier when you have an advocate in your corner. Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked with thousands of New York business professionals who want a legal advisor to guide and support them as they navigate the business world.

With wide-ranging experience as a business attorney, strategist, and media authority, I bring the added power of a business lens to the legal issues my clients are facing.

And because I’ve been a business owner myself, I’ve lived through the soaring highs and devastating lows – like when my first law firm failed. So I understand what’s involved to serve great clients, detect business risks early and build a true legacy.

I can’t get those 12 years back. That’s why I have made it my mission to ensure that business professionals like you can become wise and discerning leaders, build a solid business, and live your best life.