It depends on the state you're in. For example, in California it's $800/yr if you're not making any money after the first year. The process is pretty simple;

It depends on the state you're in. For example, in California it's $800/yr if you're not making any money after the first year. The process is pretty simple; a hundred bucks to file the papers with the state, and $25 every other year to file an information update with the SoS. (There is some bookkeeping required to maintain a minimal corporation so be sure you understand all the requirements before incorporating. If it was me, I'd do everything possible not to incorporate until I had a good reason.) It seems you can reserve a name in advance but only for 60 days (again, in California). The language "The name reservation can be renewed to the same applicant or for the benefit of the same party, but not for consecutive periods" suggests you could team up with a buddy to alternately reserve the name as long as you want, but it sounds like a lot of work. http://www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/name-availability/#reserving http://www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/na...