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

Processing times vary: 3-5 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 Indiana?

Indiana does not require a state-level business license, but individual cities and counties may have their own requirements. Check with your local government for specific licensing needs.

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 Indiana?

The LLC filing fee is $95. Annual fees are $31. 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 $250.

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 Indiana. 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 Indiana 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.

Indiana Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Indiana

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Indiana?

$95

Filing Fee

3-5

Processing (days)

560K

Total Businesses

65K/yr

New Businesses

Low cost of doing business

Central US location - logistics hub

Strong manufacturing base

No state business license required

Starting a Business in Indiana

Top Cities for Business

Indianapolis887,642
Fort Wayne263,886
Evansville117,298
South Bend103,453
Carmel101,068

Popular Industries

Manufacturing
Agriculture
Pharmaceuticals
Logistics
Healthcare

Cost to Start a Business in Indiana

LLC Filing Fee$95

Annual Report Fee$31/year

Name Reservation (optional)$20 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$250

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Indiana Tax Overview

Indiana has a flat 3.15% income tax. Corporate tax is 4.9%. Sales tax is 7% statewide.

Indiana 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 Indiana

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

restaurant

Hoosier Table
Indiana Cuisine
Indianapolis Kitchen
Local Dining
Crossroads Eats
Fresh Flavors

barbershop

Hoosier Cuts
Premium Grooming
Indianapolis Barbers
Classic Style
Indiana Shave
Expert Service

construction

Indiana Builders
Quality Construction
Hoosier Build
Building IN
Indianapolis Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Indianapolis Strategy
Business Growth
Hoosier Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Indiana Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Indiana Mercantile
Local Goods
Hoosier Market
Quality Products
Indianapolis Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Indiana Home Care
Complete Solutions
Hoosier Services
Professional Care
Indianapolis Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Indianapolis Tech
Innovation
Hoosier Digital
Tech Solutions
Indiana Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Indiana Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Hoosier Medical
Patient Care
Indianapolis Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Indiana Properties
Dream Homes
Hoosier Realty
Expert Service
Indianapolis Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Indianapolis Fitness
Peak Performance
Hoosier Strong
Community Fitness
Indiana Athletics
Elite Training

Official Indiana Business Resources

Indiana Secretary of State

Business registration

Indiana Department of Revenue

Tax information

Indiana SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Indiana

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

File Biennial Report ($31)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
No state business license 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 Indiana 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 Indiana 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 Indiana Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.