The rules for LLC name availability, even so, are precisely the same for almost every other unregistered business names: They must be distinguishable and not previously trademarked. So If you're looking to sign up John Smith LLC but that name is already taken, you'll need to pick out another name. https://my.sterling.edu/ICS/icsfs/seamless-triumph-simplifying-llc-formation-with-la.pdf?target=e7c2e1dd-20f4-41e4-9012-880d6f7e67e5