How long does it take to register a business in Connecticut?

Processing times vary: 5-7 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Connecticut?

Yes, most cities in Connecticut require a general business license. Requirements vary by location and industry. Contact your local city or county clerk's office for specific requirements.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Connecticut?

The LLC filing fee is $120. Annual fees are $80. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $300.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Connecticut. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Connecticut Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Connecticut Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Connecticut LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Connecticut businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Connecticut

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Connecticut?

$120

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

380K

Total Businesses

35K/yr

New Businesses

Insurance capital of the world

Proximity to NYC and Boston

Highly educated workforce

Strong finance and healthcare sectors

Starting a Business in Connecticut

Top Cities for Business

Bridgeport148,654
New Haven134,023
Hartford121,054
Stamford135,470
Waterbury114,403

Popular Industries

Finance
Insurance
Healthcare
Manufacturing
Technology

Cost to Start a Business in Connecticut

LLC Filing Fee$120

Annual Report Fee$80/year

Name Reservation (optional)$60 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$300

Processing time: 5-7 business days

Connecticut Tax Overview

Connecticut has income tax rates from 3-6.99%. Corporate tax is 7.5%. Sales tax is 6.35%.

Connecticut Business Name Requirements

Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company"
Must be distinguishable

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Trust, Insurance

Business Name Ideas for Connecticut

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Nutmeg Table
Connecticut Cuisine
Hartford Kitchen
New England Dining
Constitution Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Hartford Cuts
Premium Grooming
Nutmeg Barbers
Classic Style
Connecticut Shave
Expert Service

construction

Connecticut Builders
Quality Construction
Nutmeg Build
Building CT
Hartford Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Hartford Strategy
Business Growth
Nutmeg Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Connecticut Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Connecticut Mercantile
Local Goods
Nutmeg Market
Quality Products
Hartford Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Connecticut Home Care
Complete Solutions
Nutmeg Services
Professional Care
Hartford Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Hartford Tech
Innovation
Nutmeg Digital
Tech Solutions
Connecticut Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Connecticut Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Nutmeg Medical
Patient Care
Hartford Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Connecticut Properties
Dream Homes
Nutmeg Realty
Expert Service
Hartford Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Hartford Fitness
Peak Performance
Nutmeg Strong
Community Fitness
Connecticut Athletics
Elite Training

Official Connecticut Business Resources

Connecticut Secretary of State

Business registration

CT Department of Revenue

Tax information

Connecticut SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Connecticut

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Connecticut LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

File Annual Report ($80)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
Business Entity Tax applies

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Connecticut Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Connecticut Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Connecticut Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.