Georgia Assumed Name Certificate, also known as the Fictitious Name Certificate, is a legal document that allows individuals or businesses to conduct business under a name other than their legal or registered name. This certificate is obtained from the Georgia Secretary of State's office. The Georgia Assumed Name Certificate serves as a way to inform the public about the true identity of individuals or entities operating under a different name. It provides transparency and protects consumers from potential fraud or deception. It also ensures that businesses are accountable for their actions. There are three main types of Georgia Assumed Name Certificates: 1. Individual Assumed Name Certificate: This type is used when a sole proprietor or an individual wants to operate their business under a name that is different from their legal name. It requires the full legal name of the individual, the assumed name they wish to use, and the address of the business. 2. Partnership Assumed Name Certificate: Partnerships, including general partnerships and limited partnerships, need to obtain this certificate if they plan to operate under a name other than the names of the partners. It requires the names of all partners, the assumed name of the partnership, and the business address. 3. Corporation/LLC Assumed Name Certificate: Corporations and limited liability companies (LCS) must obtain this certificate if they wish to conduct business under a name that is different from their legal name. It requires the legal name of the corporation or LLC, the assumed name they want to use, and the business address. It is important to note that the Georgia Assumed Name Certificate does not provide exclusive rights to the assumed name. To fully protect the name, individuals or businesses may consider registering it as a trademark or service mark with the Georgia Secretary of State or the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Obtaining a Georgia Assumed Name Certificate is a crucial step for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to establish a recognizable brand or operate under a catchy name. It allows them to legally use a name that better reflects their products, services, or market positioning while ensuring transparency for consumers and compliance with state regulations.