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

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 Georgia?

Yes, most cities in Georgia 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 Georgia?

The LLC filing fee is $100. Annual fees are $50. 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 Georgia. 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 Georgia 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.

Georgia Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Georgia

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Georgia?

$100

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

1.2M

Total Businesses

125K/yr

New Businesses

Atlanta is a major business hub with international airport

Booming film and entertainment industry

Low cost of living and business-friendly environment

Growing tech startup ecosystem

Starting a Business in Georgia

Top Cities for Business

Atlanta499,000
Augusta202,000
Columbus206,000
Macon157,000
Savannah147,000

Popular Industries

Technology
Film Production
Agriculture
Logistics
Manufacturing

Cost to Start a Business in Georgia

LLC Filing Fee$100

Annual Report Fee$50/year

Name Reservation (optional)$25 for 30 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$300

Processing time: 5-7 business days

Georgia Tax Overview

Georgia has a flat 5.49% income tax rate (individual and corporate). Sales tax is 4% state plus up to 5% local.

Georgia Business Name Requirements

Must contain "LLC", "L.L.C.", or "Limited Liability Company"
Cannot be misleading or deceptive

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

Bank, Trust, Insurance, University

Business Name Ideas for Georgia

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

restaurant

Peach State Kitchen
Georgia Fresh Cuisine
Atlanta Eats
Southern Dining
Georgia Table Co.
Local Flavors

barbershop

Georgia Barber Co.
Classic Cuts
Peach State Cuts
Premium Grooming
Atlanta Barbers
Expert Style

construction

Georgia Build Group
Quality Construction
Peach State Contractors
Building GA
Atlanta Builders
Trusted Partners

consulting

Georgia Strategy
Business Growth
Peach State Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Atlanta Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Georgia Mercantile
Local Goods
Peach State Market
Quality Products
Atlanta Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Georgia Home Care
Complete Solutions
Peach State Services
Professional Care
Atlanta Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Georgia Tech Labs
Innovation Hub
Peach State Digital
Tech Solutions
Atlanta Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Georgia Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Peach State Medical
Patient Care
Atlanta Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Georgia Properties
Dream Homes
Peach State Realty
Expert Service
Atlanta Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Georgia Fitness
Peak Performance
Peach State Strong
Community Fitness
Atlanta Athletics
Elite Training

Official Georgia Business Resources

Georgia Secretary of State

Business registration and corporate filings

Georgia Department of Revenue

Tax registration and business licenses

Georgia SBDC

Business counseling and resources

How to Register a Business in Georgia

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

File Annual Registration by April 1 ($50)
Maintain registered agent in Georgia
Pay state and federal taxes as required
Local business licenses may be required

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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.