Business Certificate for Sole Proprietorships and General Partnerships

If your business uses a name other than its legal name, you need a Certificate of Assumed Name from your county clerk. This certificate is also called a business certificate.

Each borough in New York City has its own county clerk. Their contact details are at the end of this page. A legal name is the name under which your business is registered in New York State.

If you use a trade name, you will likely need a Certificate of Assumed Name. This rule is different for sole proprietorships and general partnerships.

Sole proprietorship

This is a business run by one owner. The owner is responsible for all business operations. The owner does business in their own name or with a trade name. A business certificate is needed only if a trade name is used.

General partnership

This is a business where partners (owners) share the profits or losses. General partnerships usually use a trade name and almost always need a business certificate.

Filing for a certificate

All businesses can file for a certificate directly with the county clerk's office in the borough where they are based. However, business owners should consult an attorney to understand the legal implications.

Businesses must file a Certificate of Assumed Name if they operate under any name other than their legal name. They must file the Certificate of Assumed Name with the State Department of State, Division of Corporations. Learn more about Certificates of Assumed Name.

For more information, contact the county clerk's office in your borough.