How long does it take to register a business in Rhode Island?

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 Rhode Island?

Yes, most cities in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?

The LLC filing fee is $150. 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 Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island 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.

Rhode Island Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Rhode Island

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Rhode Island?

$150

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

110K

Total Businesses

10K/yr

New Businesses

Strategic location between NYC and Boston

Strong healthcare and education sectors

Historic business community

Access to ports

Starting a Business in Rhode Island

Top Cities for Business

Providence190,934
Warwick82,823
Cranston82,934
Pawtucket75,604
East Providence47,139

Popular Industries

Healthcare
Education
Manufacturing
Tourism
Technology

Cost to Start a Business in Rhode Island

LLC Filing Fee$150

Annual Report Fee$50/year

Name Reservation (optional)$50 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$300

Processing time: 5-7 business days

Rhode Island Tax Overview

Rhode Island has income tax rates from 3.75-5.99%. Corporate tax is 7%. Sales tax is 7%.

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island

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

restaurant

Ocean State Table
Rhode Island Cuisine
Providence Kitchen
New England Dining
Little Rhody Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Providence Cuts
Premium Grooming
Ocean State Barbers
Classic Style
RI Shave
Expert Service

construction

Rhode Island Builders
Quality Construction
Ocean State Build
Building RI
Providence Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Providence Strategy
Business Growth
Ocean State Advisors
Strategic Solutions
RI Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Rhode Island Mercantile
Local Goods
Ocean State Market
Quality Products
Providence Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

RI Home Care
Complete Solutions
Ocean State Services
Professional Care
Providence Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Providence Tech
Innovation
Ocean State Digital
Tech Solutions
RI Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Rhode Island Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Ocean State Medical
Patient Care
Providence Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Rhode Island Properties
Dream Homes
Ocean State Realty
Expert Service
Providence Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Providence Fitness
Peak Performance
Ocean State Strong
Community Fitness
RI Athletics
Elite Training

Official Rhode Island Business Resources

Rhode Island Secretary of State

Business registration

RI Division of Taxation

Tax information

Rhode Island SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Rhode Island

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

File Annual Report ($50)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
Obtain local licenses

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