A corporate name:(1) Must contain the word “corporation,” “company,” or “incorporated” or the abbreviation “Corp.,” “Inc.,” or “Co.,” or the designation “Corp,” “Inc,” or “Co,” as will clearly indicate that it is a corporation instead of a natural person, partnership, or other business entity.
(2) May not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a purpose other than that permitted in this act and its articles of incorporation.
(3) May not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is connected with a state or federal government agency or a corporation chartered under the laws of the United States.
(4) Must be distinguishable from the names of all other entities or filings that are on file with the Division of Corporations, except fictitious name registrations pursuant to s. 865.09, general partnership registrations pursuant to s. 620.8105, and limited liability partnership statements pursuant to s. 620.9001 which are organized, registered, or reserved under the laws of this state. A name that is different from the name of another entity or filing due to any of the following is not considered distinguishable:(a) A suffix.
(b) A definite or indefinite article.
(c) The word “and” and the symbol “&.”
(d) The singular, plural, or possessive form of a word.
(e) A recognized abbreviation of a root word.
(f) A punctuation mark or a symbol.
(5) As filed with the Department of State, is for public notice only and does not alone create any presumption of ownership beyond that which is created under the common law.
