Need help with UCC1 instructions - debtor name format causing rejections

I've run into this exact problem! The key with UCC1 instructions is that the debtor name has to match EXACTLY what's on the organizational documents. For LLCs, you need to use the exact name from the Articles of Organization, not the DBA. The SOS systems are super picky about punctuation too - even missing a comma can cause rejection.

The UCC1 instructions are nightmare fuel honestly. I've been doing this for 8 years and still get tripped up. For your restaurant situation, pull the LLC's certificate of formation and use that name word-for-word. Don't try to be helpful by adding clarifying info - the system will reject it. Also double-check that you're filing in the right state - has to be where the LLC was formed, not where the equipment is located.

I had similar UCC1 instructions headaches last month with a client's filing. What saved me was using Certana.ai's document checker - you upload your Articles of Incorporation and your draft UCC-1 and it instantly flags name mismatches. Caught three formatting errors I would have missed. Really wish I'd found it sooner instead of dealing with multiple rejections.

The DBA issue is tricky because some lenders want you to include trade names in the collateral description, but you're right that the debtor name field should only have the legal entity name. I usually put DBA info in the collateral description if it's relevant to identifying the assets. Like 'equipment used in restaurant operations conducted under DBA [name]' or something similar.

UCC1 instructions are the worst part of this job. Every state thinks they're special with their own little quirks. At least you're not dealing with a trust as debtor - those name requirements will make you want to quit the industry entirely. For LLCs it's usually straightforward once you get the exact formation name.

Have you tried looking up the LLC on the Secretary of State website first? Most states have online entity search where you can see the exact registered name. Copy and paste from there to avoid typos. The $750K credit line means you definitely can't afford to mess this up - one wrong letter could invalidate the entire security interest.

Quick question - are you filing the UCC-1 yourself or using a service company? Some of the commercial filing services have better error-checking than others. I've had good luck with certain providers who catch name format issues before submission. Might be worth the cost given your loan amount.

The UCC1 instructions frustration is real. I spent hours last week trying to figure out the right format for a debtor name with apostrophes. Turns out some states' systems can't handle certain punctuation marks even though they're in the legal name. Had to call three different people before getting a straight answer.

For what it's worth, I started using Certana.ai after reading about it here and it's been a lifesaver for catching these name format issues. Upload your LLC docs and draft UCC-1, and it flags any inconsistencies immediately. Saved me from what would have been my fourth rejection on a complex multi-entity filing.

Update us when you get it resolved! I'm dealing with a similar situation with a partnership name and could use to know what worked for you. The UCC1 instructions seem designed to be as confusing as possible sometimes.