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

Processing times vary: 5-10 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 Tennessee?

Yes, most cities in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

The LLC filing fee is $300. Annual fees are $300. 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 $750.

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 Tennessee. 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 Tennessee 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.

Tennessee Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Tennessee

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Tennessee?

$300

Filing Fee

5-10

Processing (days)

680K

Total Businesses

80K/yr

New Businesses

No state income tax

Nashville is fastest-growing US city

Strong healthcare and music industries

Low cost of living

Starting a Business in Tennessee

Top Cities for Business

Nashville689,447
Memphis633,104
Knoxville190,740
Chattanooga181,099
Clarksville166,722

Popular Industries

Healthcare
Music & Entertainment
Automotive
Logistics
Tourism

Cost to Start a Business in Tennessee

LLC Filing Fee$300

Annual Report Fee$300/year

Name Reservation (optional)$20 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$750

Processing time: 5-10 business days

Tennessee Tax Overview

Tennessee has no state income tax. Franchise tax is 0.25% of net worth, excise tax is 6.5%. Sales tax is 7% state plus local.

Tennessee 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 Tennessee

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

restaurant

Nashville Table
Tennessee Cuisine
Volunteer Kitchen
Southern Dining
Memphis Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Nashville Cuts
Premium Grooming
Volunteer Barbers
Classic Style
Memphis Shave
Expert Service

construction

Tennessee Builders
Quality Construction
Nashville Build
Building TN
Memphis Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Nashville Strategy
Business Growth
Volunteer Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Tennessee Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Tennessee Mercantile
Local Goods
Nashville Market
Quality Products
Memphis Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Tennessee Home Care
Complete Solutions
Nashville Services
Professional Care
Memphis Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Nashville Tech Labs
Innovation Hub
Tennessee Digital
Tech Solutions
Memphis Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Tennessee Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Nashville Medical
Patient Care
Memphis Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Tennessee Properties
Dream Homes
Nashville Realty
Expert Service
Memphis Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Nashville Fitness
Peak Performance
Tennessee Strong
Community Fitness
Memphis Athletics
Elite Training

Official Tennessee Business Resources

Tennessee Secretary of State

Business registration

Tennessee Department of Revenue

Tax information

Tennessee SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Tennessee

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

File Annual Report ($300)
Maintain registered agent
Pay franchise and excise 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.