Rules for choosing a corporate name

(a) A corporate name: (1) Must contain the word "corporation", "incorporated", or "limited", or the abbreviation "corp.", "inc.", or "ltd."; and (2) May not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a purpose other than that permitted by section 414-41 and its articles of incorporation. (b) Except as authorized by subsections (c) and (d), a corporate name may not be the same as or substantially identical to: (1) The name of any entity registered or authorized to transact business or conduct affairs under the laws of this State; (2) A name the exclusive right to which is, at the time, reserved in this State; (3) The fictitious name adopted by a foreign corporation authorized to transact business in this State because its real name is unavailable; and (4) Any trade name, trademark, or service mark registered in this State. (c) A corporation may apply to the department director for authorization to use a name that, based upon the department director's records, is substantially identical to one or more of the names described in subsection (b). The department director shall authorize use of the name applied for if: (1) The other entity or holder of a reserved or registered name consents in writing to the use and registration of the name, and one or more words are added by the applicant to make the name distinguishable from the name on record; or (2) The applicant delivers to the department director a certified copy of the final judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction establishing the applicant's right to use the name applied for in this State. (d) A corporation may use the name (including the fictitious name) of another domestic or foreign corporation that is used in this State if the other corporation is incorporated or authorized to transact business in this State and the proposed user corporation: (1) Has merged with the other corporation; (2) Has been formed by reorganization of the other corporation; or (3) Has acquired all or substantially all of the assets, including the corporate name, of the other corporation. (e) This chapter does not control the use of fictitious names.