When an insurance producer conducts business under an assumed name, what must be done before using that name?

• A. File a notice with the IRS before using the name
• B. Notify the commissioner prior to using the assumed name
• C. Notify customers after starting business under the name
• D. Register the name with the state as a trademark before use

Answer: (B)

Using an assumed name requires regulatory disclosure before you start using it. When a producer wants to operate under a name other than their legal name, state rules require you to inform the Insurance Commissioner ahead of time so the regulator can review and approve the name. This helps protect consumers by ensuring the business is clearly identifiable and avoids confusion with other licensed producers.

So, before you begin doing business under an assumed name, you must notify the commissioner. Filing with the IRS, announcing the name after you start, or registering the name as a trademark aren’t the regulatory steps necessary to authorize use of an assumed name in this context.