Provided by:  Jennifer Kirschenbaum, Esq.

 March 7, 2023

Question:
Hi Jennifer,

I am starting a new practice tax ID.  What can I title my entity?  Any restrictions? 

Thanks,
Dr. P

Answer:

In NY, there are many restrictions on what you can title your entity.  Here are a few restrictions 

  1. you have to use a name that does not suggest you are working outside your specialty.
  2. you cannot pick words that represent professional superiority. 
  3. you cannot be deceptive, for instance, calling your practice "associates" when you are a solo.
  4. you cannot use a name already registered by a different owner. 

The list goes on and on, and keeps growing.  The key to success in NY, where a professional entity takes 4-6 months to form, is understanding the restrictions, confirming availability and likelihood of success PRIOR to filing.   

So, we covered what you likely cannot title your new medical practice.  What can you title it?  A few ideas - try to pick a name correlative to your specialty and location.   Or, choose a name completely generic and non specific - such as use of an address.   Avoid potentially confusing triggers, i.e., Doug's Medical Hospital - are you a licensed Article 28 facility?  If not,  you cannot use "Hospital".   Navigating formation rules can be confusing, and waiting the allowable time for denials by the Department of Education when you are ready to start your practice can be excruciating.  Start the process prepared; whether that be through your own extensive research or outsourcing the process entirely... 

If you have any questions or would like assistance, contact Taryn Crimi directly at TCrimi@kirschenbaumesq.com   Taryn is our lead corporate formation paralegal for our healthcare department and knows the ins and outs of the Department of Education filing requirements.