Important Notice: On December 1, 2017, the Assumed Names Law (also known as "doing business as") changed. Read the Assumed Business Name Act to find out all the details (NCGS § 66-71.x). Filings of assumed names are still made at the Register of Deeds office. Some key advantages to the new statute are:

• Filing in Wayne County can cover all NC counties (or those you choose)
• You can register up to five names on one form
• Filings no longer have to be notarized.

All assumed names filed before December 1, 2017 will need to be refiled by December 1, 2022 or they will expire. We recommend filing early so that it is in the new system and there is no lapse.

The Register of Deeds handles filings for sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) doing business under an assumed name. You must first perform a name search to find out if the name you want is already in use. Use the below links to assist with your name search and to download any needed forms.

NC Secretary of State

Assumed Business Name Certificate

Amendment of Assumed Business Name Certificate

Withdrawal of Assumed Business Name Certificate

Note: The Wayne County Register of Deeds Office is only a recording office. You should consult with an attorney for legal advice for questions that pertain to the form of business structure that is best for you or registering your business name.

If you have any questions please contact our office at 919-731-1449.