Can a sole proprietor in Massachusetts have the word "company" in their business name. I don't think so, but there seems to be some confusion.

I am not aware of any prohibition on use of the word "Company" by a sole proprietor. But do check it out with legal counsel to make sure.

Thank you very much.

I am confused about another issue with Sole Proprietor accounts in Massachusetts because I've been told conflicting information.

If John Smith decides to create a d/b/a titled, John Smith, d/b/a John Smith Electrician does he have to file a business certficate in the town/city in which he's doing business.

I do not believe there is any prohibition in Massachusetts which would stop a sole proprietor from using the term "company" as part of his/her business name. There is a prohibition on terms such as "corporation", "corp", "incorporated", "inc" "LLC" "LLP" etc. These prohibitons can be found in the Mass. statutes dealing with corporations and llcs. They may also be in the statute on Sole proprietorships.

https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXV/Chapter110/Section5

Here's the state law, which says a Business Certificate should be filed by "any person conducting business in the commonwealth under any title other than the real name of the person conducting the business" (emphasis mine)

Perhaps the instructions available in the city or town where the business should be filing would have more detailed examples for you, or you could contact the clerk directly with your question.