How long does it take to register a business in New Hampshire?

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 New Hampshire?

New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?

The LLC filing fee is $100. Annual fees are $100. 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 New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire 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.

New Hampshire Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for New Hampshire

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in New Hampshire?

$100

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

150K

Total Businesses

15K/yr

New Businesses

No state income tax

No state sales tax

Proximity to Boston market

High quality of life

Starting a Business in New Hampshire

Top Cities for Business

Manchester115,644
Nashua91,322
Concord44,503
Derry34,317
Rochester32,492

Popular Industries

Technology
Manufacturing
Healthcare
Tourism
Finance

Cost to Start a Business in New Hampshire

LLC Filing Fee$100

Annual Report Fee$100/year

Name Reservation (optional)$15 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$300

Processing time: 5-7 business days

New Hampshire Tax Overview

New Hampshire has no income tax on wages. Business Profits Tax is 7.5%, Business Enterprise Tax is 0.55%. No sales tax.

New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire

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

restaurant

Granite State Table
NH Cuisine
Manchester Kitchen
New England Dining
Live Free Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Manchester Cuts
Premium Grooming
Granite Barbers
Classic Style
NH Shave
Expert Service

construction

New Hampshire Builders
Quality Construction
Granite State Build
Building NH
Manchester Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Manchester Strategy
Business Growth
Granite State Advisors
Strategic Solutions
NH Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

New Hampshire Mercantile
Local Goods
Granite State Market
Quality Products
Manchester Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

NH Home Care
Complete Solutions
Granite State Services
Professional Care
Manchester Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Manchester Tech
Innovation
Granite State Digital
Tech Solutions
NH Software
Custom Development

healthcare

New Hampshire Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Granite State Medical
Patient Care
Manchester Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

New Hampshire Properties
Dream Homes
Granite State Realty
Expert Service
Manchester Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Manchester Fitness
Peak Performance
Granite State Strong
Community Fitness
NH Athletics
Elite Training

Official New Hampshire Business Resources

NH Secretary of State

Business registration

NH Department of Revenue

Tax information

NH SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in New Hampshire

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

File Annual Report ($100)
Maintain registered agent
Pay Business Profits Tax if applicable
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 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.