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

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 Massachusetts?

Yes, most cities in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?

The LLC filing fee is $500. Annual fees are $500. 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 $1200.

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 Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts 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.

Massachusetts Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Massachusetts

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Massachusetts?

$500

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

700K

Total Businesses

80K/yr

New Businesses

World-class universities (MIT, Harvard)

Leading biotech and healthcare hub

Access to educated workforce

Strong venture capital ecosystem

Starting a Business in Massachusetts

Top Cities for Business

Boston675,647
Worcester206,518
Springfield155,929
Cambridge118,403
Lowell115,554

Popular Industries

Biotechnology
Technology
Healthcare
Education
Finance

Cost to Start a Business in Massachusetts

LLC Filing Fee$500

Annual Report Fee$500/year

Name Reservation (optional)$30 for 60 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$1200

Processing time: 5-7 business days

Massachusetts Tax Overview

Massachusetts has a flat 5% income tax. Corporate excise tax is 8%. Sales tax is 6.25% with no local additions.

Massachusetts 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, University

Business Name Ideas for Massachusetts

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

restaurant

Boston Table
New England Cuisine
Bay State Eats
Local Dining
Cambridge Kitchen
Fresh Flavors

barbershop

Boston Cuts
Premium Grooming
Bay State Barbers
Classic Style
Cambridge Shave
Expert Service

construction

Boston Builders
Quality Construction
Bay State Build
Building MA
New England Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Boston Strategy
Business Growth
Bay State Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Cambridge Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Boston Mercantile
Local Goods
Bay State Market
Quality Products
Cambridge Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Boston Home Care
Complete Solutions
Bay State Services
Professional Care
Cambridge Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Boston Tech Labs
Innovation Hub
Cambridge Digital
Tech Solutions
Bay State Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Boston Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Bay State Medical
Patient Care
Cambridge Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Boston Properties
Dream Homes
Bay State Realty
Expert Service
Cambridge Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Boston Fitness
Peak Performance
Bay State Strong
Community Fitness
Cambridge Athletics
Elite Training

Official Massachusetts Business Resources

MA Secretary of Commonwealth

Business registration

MA Department of Revenue

Tax information

MA SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Massachusetts

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

File Annual Report ($500)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
Renew local licenses

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

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Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.