Free LLC Lookup
Starting a business? Use our free LLC lookup tool to check your desired business name against your state's records
By clicking "Check Availability," I agree to LegalZoom's Terms of Use. This search is a preliminary check of state databases and does not include variations or trademarks. Results do not guarantee name availability or compliance with legal requirements.
I was so nervous about my lack of…
I was so nervous about my lack of knowledge in forming an LLC! Legal Zoom made it so easy and clear! Super great service!
The process to form an LLC was easy
The process to form an LLC was easy. I would recommend paying a bit more instead of you trying to do it yourself. Paying extra for this service will ensure you correctly form your LLC.
Filing for an LLC was a breeze
Filing for an LLC was a breeze, clear explatnations of what to select or not made the process very easy and fast.
They made starting a business easy
They made starting a business easy. It took me an hour to get all the right documents done for starting an LLC. After an hour my business was registered and ready to go.
I really appreciate the really easy…
I really appreciate the really easy step by step process they have. I had my LLC up and running in less then 7 hrs from starting the process.
Such an easy process helping us set up…
Such an easy process helping us set up our LLC! LegalZoom thinks of everything that we are still learning.
Legal Zoom made setting up my LLC so…
Legal Zoom made setting up my LLC so easy. They asked all the right questions and got my business going!
Fast process and very easy steps
Fast process and very easy steps! The LLC formation was simple and smooth from start to finish. Everything was clearly explained, and the paperwork was handled quickly, I recommended!
The experience of setting up my own LLC…
The experience of setting up my own LLC was both quick, easy and simple
Efficient and professional assistance…
Efficient and professional assistance in quickly setting up my LLC. Started an application with Tailor Brands and later learned my expedited fee was only to submit to the State within two days, even though their website advertised 24 hours for an LLC formation and EIN. Should have started with Legal Zoom! Spoke with Gianna on the phone to set it up, logged into my account, and was done in an hour! Thorough and reliable.
BEST PHONE CALL IN THE 364.25 DAYS OF 2025
Wow! Being nervous and not knowing exactly which direction to take I went online last night and found LegalZoom. I wasn’t completely sure about it (getting the LLC) and my anxiety kicked in so I backed out of it. My number must have saved anyway in their archive because I received a call this morning. Martha Anguiano called and the encounter with her was just what I needed to encourage me further with my LLC process. She was very polite, knowledgeable and immediately gave me a list of what I can choose from to start. After discussing with her more about my plans she suggested the best start up package for me. Martha was so genuinely enthusiastic about my idea that I felt truly comfortable sharing with her. After getting off the phone my smile and heart expressed the connection that was made even if it’s only for the professionalism she offers as an agent, I’m grateful it was her that called as I stated to her, “I’m not sure how it would have went if it were another agent that called.” (I can be nervous when speaking and studdar my words but she made me feel completely heard and understood) I can only hope and believe the entire Team at LeagalZoom is just as pleasant, knowledgeable and concerned for the customers as she exemplified. If you see this message Martha, thank you so much you’re definitely a Golden Star in this universe. ⭐️✨⭐️ Looking forward to working with you & LegalZoom. Thank You!
Super easy to navigate
Super easy to navigate, This was the easiest deal to get my business llc. I am astounded at how painless this process was. You should really sign up.
My LLC setup
My LLC was set up quickly and efficiently, Thank you for the great job. Due today and completed today.
Starting a new LLC
Starting a new LLC. Ali walked me through the entire process in less than 10 minutes. Quick, easy and highly professional. Thanks!!
Piece of Cake!
Wow, if I had known HOW EASY it would be to create my own LLC I would have done it months ago! I literally created my own business in MINUTES. LegalZoom takes all of the fear, confusion, guesswork and administrative burden out of starting your own business. Strongly recommend it!
Excellent, rapid, economical LLC formation…
Legal Zoom enabled me to very quickly and economically set up my LLC
They made creating my llc such an easy…
They made creating my llc such an easy process and gave me plenty of options. I genuinely never even thought of. So happy I had this option.
Filed my LLC confidently thanks to LegalZoom
Sittie answered all my questions and made me feel much more confident about forming my LLC this morning. Including some basic tax questions that she was able to answer. So greatly appreciate her help.
LegalZoom was great to start my first LLC
LegalZoom was great to start my LLC! The process was simple and easy! Very fast as long as you know what you want your name to be and what your business is doing. Highly recommend for the people that like to do it themselves online. Great experience
Out-of-State LLC Business Formation
I was at a standstill with no resolution in sight - LegalZoom fixed me up within minutes & made filling the Out-of-State business form LLC-5 with the State of California, easy! Thank you!
So Helpful…
Legal Zoom is quick and easy to create a New Corporation. The price is fair. Thank you for all your assistance.
I’m new to all this basically my first…
I’m new to all this basically my first time filing for a corporation on my own and I didn’t last in 30 minutes. This is great thank you it just walks you through everything you need with answering questions. Did you already know
Leogilyn Pavo was so helpful
Leogilyn Pavo was so helpful. I needed to change my business address and Leogilyn walked me through the process step by step. Leogilyn even looked up specific answers about my corporation so I could fill out the required forms correctly. I couldn’t have done this without Leogilyn’s help!
Genaro was great!
Genaro was a great listener, remembered everything we spoke about and then walked me through the process of moving my LLC into a Corporation. Glad I called rather than try to do online - we got it all done in about 20 minutes.
Spoke clearly, was professional and very knowledgeable about his business
Edgar was so pleasant and professional and I will be sending more people to him for their corporation needs as well!! He is so knowledgeable about the sales products he sells. This was a flawless and simple process bc of him!
Nonprofit Advisor, Daniel Morgan is great
When I spoke with my nonprofit advisor Daniel, he was very thorough with explaining everything to me. I am new to this process and he made this experience a pleasant one.
I'm a lawyer with almost 40 years of…
I'm a lawyer with almost 40 years of experience. I'm a DIY around the house handyman, and I DIM in law, but was short on time to establish a New York non-profit corporation in advance of actually moving to New York. Legal Zoom and Ms. Angeles were amazing. This project was accomplished with their professional zeal, and saved me a pile of time and money. Respect!
Legal Zoom takes the guesswork out
I’ve used Legal Zoom to start my nonprofit, having them assist me with the 501(c)3 paperwork was the best thing I could’ve done. They took the guesswork out, they really made the process as simple and streamlined as possible. I have already referred several people to use this service!
Legal Zoom was incredibly user friendly…
Legal Zoom was incredibly user friendly! I was able to start my non-profit, Widows Walk Project Incorporated, within days. I had to call for support on one question. The representative was super helpful and had me off the phone within minutes. Legal Zoom mailed the established non-profit paperwork to me within three days. Thank you Legal Zoom for your expedience and support!
Gail Vyeda Deserves Recognition — Outstanding Support!
I had the absolute pleasure of working with Gail Vyeda through LegalZoom’s Concierge service, and I cannot say enough good things about her. Gail is knowledgeable, patient, professional, and genuinely caring. From the very beginning, she made me feel supported, heard, and confident in the process of forming my nonprofit. She explained everything in clear terms, walked me through each step, and made sure I understood what was being filed and why. Even when I had questions outside the typical scope, she went the extra mile to help — always with kindness, clarity, and grace. She made what could’ve been a stressful experience feel seamless and empowering. Gail is exactly the kind of person who deserves to be recognized and promoted. Her dedication and warmth represent LegalZoom at its best. Thank you, Gail — you made a big difference in helping me bring my nonprofit vision to life! — LaTonya White, The Legacy Impact Fund (DBA Big Gló Foundation)
The couple of representatives I spoke…
The couple of representatives I spoke with while in the process of registering my nonprofit and applying for the 501(c)3 status were professional, friendly, knowledgeable.
LegalZoom has been a great source to…
LegalZoom has been a great source to work with. I would recommend anyone to utilize Legal Zoom who is starting a nonprofit. Very seamless and courteous! The customer service they have been providing has been excellent!
Willie is the man!!
Willie did a great job answering all my questions and helping me understand different aspects of what what happens when starting my nonprofit with Legalzoom. Great customer service experience!
In the avalanche of many questions, Ana was there to guide me
Ana provided detailed information to my questions about a nonprofit. She was helpful and patient with me. She extended herself to keep in touch and work with me when I am ready. Thank you!
Incredibly helpful!
I called with some questions and received such helpful information! My nonprofit partner and I feel confident in moving forward with Legal Zoom services for our women centered nonprofit.
Being a business owner of two businesses...
Being a business owner of two business. A for profit and now a nonprofit LegalZoom has made the business registration process effortless and seamless all while keeping my submitted documents legal with the state. I highly recommend any entrepreneur who's filing your business on your own to let LegalZoom do the handwork for you. They are fast, accurate, and efficient.
Gerald was extremely helpful to me in…
Gerald was extremely helpful to me in getting my order processed. He made it easy for me to just answer a question and continue with the process of setting up my nonprofit.
Outstanding Work
The professionalism of the team coupled with the speed of getting the nonprofit paperwork accomplished and through the system was excellent. I am very grateful. This is my second time working with Legal Zoom. Thank you very much.
SO VERY EASY!
LegalZoom made licensing and setting up a DBA so very simple, it took less than 10 minutes.
Smooth Process
Kurt was very helpful and provided all the information needed to successfully complete the DBA process.
Easy and professional
I was notified by text that I needed to contact LegalZoom to provide more information to move my DBA filing along. I called in and got Raffy. He was friendly and professional and took the time to confirm that LegalZoom had received the signed documents from me that were needed to take the next steps in this process. I was connected to Raffy on my first attempt and did not have to sit in a queue waiting for someone.
10/10 customer service
Both Kathy and Princess made the process of filing my DBA incredibly easy and were able to walk me through the process the entire time. Both were incredibly kind and helpful and I'm so grateful to the LegalZoom team for being there to support me through any troubles I have with my small business!
Very helpful everyone I spoke with was…
Very helpful everyone I spoke with was very knowledgeable and pointed me in the right direction. My dba was filed swiftly and I was informed about the progress the entire time. Very happy with the results.
KIERVE has Excellent Customer Service
KIERVE was very knowledgeable and provided the information I requested with additional things to assist me with creating a new DBA. I appreciated how patient they were and ensured everything had processed to the next step before we signed off the chat. Excellent customer service!
Customer Service exceeded my expectations.
After an initial dilemma with my DBA filing in California, a LegalZoom account executive took the reigns and made everything right by going above and beyond my expectations. Thank you LegalZoom!
Very helpful
I called in looking for help with my DBA and was able to complete setting it up effortlessly and got help with a few more items I didn’t even know I needed.
Joe was extraordinary
Joe was extraordinary! I called to add a DBA to my existing LLC, and he got straight to the point with exactly what I needed. He went above and beyond by taking the time to answer my questions thoroughly and even checked my account. He pointed out a couple of things for me to review, and if that wasn’t enough, he even sent me a screenshot so I knew exactly what he was referring to. Wow—what an asset to your company! Loyal customer here!
Perla Gallegos was Great
Perla Gallegos was great with follow ups and transparency as it relate to my business formation. I hope all Legal Zoom employees represents the way in which Perla Gallegos has done so in representation of the company.
Legalzoom has handled all our business…
Legalzoom has handled all our business formation needs with the utmost professionalism and timely filing. We appreciate their friendly and easy to use website.
Love how easy to understand the process…
Love how easy to understand the process of formation they have made!
The request I made for formation…
The request I made for formation documents was taken care of immediately and professionally. They were very helpful in getting me what I needed.
I had the absolute pleasure of working…
I had the absolute pleasure of working with Maria as my business formation specialist at LegalZoom, and I couldn’t be more grateful for her support throughout the process of creating my LLC. From start to finish, Maria was patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly thorough. She took the time to answer every one of my questions—no matter how small—and walked me through each step with clarity and confidence. Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but Maria made the entire experience smooth and manageable. Her dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for her clients truly stood out. Thanks to her guidance, I felt supported and well-informed every step of the way. Thank you, Maria, for your outstanding service and for going above and beyond. You are truly an asset to the LegalZoom team!
Using Legal Zoom made my business…
Using Legal Zoom made my business formation very easy. The program is user friendly and explains every step clearly.
Legal Zoom is a true one stop shop
This is the second company I have formed using Legal Zoom. They say what they are going to do and they do it. Legal Zoom provides all the tools and services you will need to quickly start your company, allowing you to focus on your business. The business formation specialist I spoke with, Juan was great; extremely knowledgeable and professional while giving me the feeling that I was talking with an old friend.
The agent was extremely helpful and…
The agent was extremely helpful and gave me the info that I was looking for. As soon as I got off of the phone with her, I got the official acceptance of my business formation!
Seamless Support from Day One
I was impressed by how quickly Alan, my Business Formation Specialist, reached out to me. Having support from day one is incredibly reassuring, especially as I navigate starting my first business. I look forward to seeing how my relationship with LegalZoom and my experience with their services evolve.
ClarisseTravel Wine Tourism Agency
I recently utilized LegalZoom's services. The platform was user friendly, making the complex process of business formation straight forward and accessible. The customer service team was knowledgeable and responsive, promptly addressing all my inquiries. The efficiency and professionalism demonstrated by LegalZoom have provided me with confidence and peace of mind. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking reliable business formation assistance.
The business formation specialist…
The business formation specialist Ramses Cardenas understood my needs and articulated well the company's product. I chose the pro package because it was my best option based on the information Ramses supplied. The process was quick easy and to the point.
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Find a name, launch your dream
A great name is the foundation for your brand and your legal structure. Our tools make it fast and easy to find a name that works, so you can focus on launching your dream company.
Find a name, launch your dream
A great name is the foundation for your brand and your legal structure. Our tools make it fast and easy to find a name that works, so you can focus on launching your dream company.
Pick the perfect name
Choose a name for your LLC that speaks to your company’s values and services. Avoid names that are overly complicated or that use unusual characters.
File name reservation or business formation documents with your state to make your name official.
Forming a business in your state only protects a business name within state lines. For comprehensive, nationwide protection, consider filing for a trademark.
Start your business, guided by experience
Start your business, guided by experience
With LegalZoom, starting your business can be easier and less stressful than doing it on your own. Our business formation services take the guesswork out of the process.
With LegalZoom, starting your business can be easier and less stressful than doing it on your own. Our business formation services take the guesswork out of the process.
100% Accurate Filing Guarantee
100% Accurate Filing Guarantee
We're committed to the highest quality and accuracy. If your filing is rejected or incorrect
due to our error, we'll correct it with the government agency at no additional cost to you.
We're committed to the highest quality and accuracy. If your filing is rejected or incorrect due to our error, we'll correct it with the government agency at no additional cost to you.
How to Conduct an LLC Lookup
A business name lookup can help make sure your preferred name is available before you register with the state. A thorough search can save you time and money in the long run.
How to Conduct an LLC Lookup
A business name lookup can help make sure your preferred name is available before you register with the state. A thorough search can save you time and money in the long run.
Key takeaways
An LLC lookup lets you confirm that your preferred business name is available and distinguishable from others in your state.
While these searches confirm name availability within a specific state, they do not tell you if your name is available for either nationwide use or federal trademark protection.
You should conduct separate searches in every state where you plan to expand or operate your business.
A state-level search is just the first step. You’ll want to run a federal trademark search to make sure your business name is truly available.
Get into the details of a business name search below, and learn more about registering a business in your state.
What is an LLC lookup, and why is it important?
An LLC lookup is a search of your state's official business registry. Depending on what you need, it can do one of two things: help you check whether a business name is available before you register a new LLC, or help you find information about an existing business, including its legal status, registered agent, formation date, and filing history.
Both searches use the same underlying source: the Secretary of State database in whichever state you're searching. The difference is in why you're searching and what you do with the results.
Searching for an existing LLC
If you’re thinking of investing or entering into some kind of partnership with a business, run an LLC lookup for that business to help you get more information. Most business name searches through your state’s Secretary of State database show the status of each LLC that comes up in the results. This helps you see if a company is in good standing and worth partnering with.
Searching for a new LLC name
If you're starting a business, a name availability search is one of the first steps to take. Before you file your articles of organization with the state, you’ll want to confirm that the name you want isn't already in use.
Every state requires your LLC name be distinguishable from all other registered entities. That means a name can be rejected not just for being identical to an existing business, but also for being too similar. Many states use a "deceptively similar" or “distinguishable on the record” standard, which means small variations like switching an ampersand for "and" or dropping punctuation typically won't be enough to clear the name.
Example: If “Books and Things” is already registered in your state, using “Books & Things” won’t be enough to make your name distinguishable. Instead, choose something unique like “The Book Peddler” or "Good Reads" to help avoid confusion.
Read more about business names in our guides linked below.
How to Start an LLC in 7 Steps
How to Start an LLC in 7 Steps
An LLC is the simplest, most flexible way to structure your business to protect personal assets.
Learn about LLCs
How to Choose a Business Name
How to Choose a Business Name
Go into detail about tips, restrictions, and pro tips about picking a name that sticks.
Read the guide
What is a DBA?
What is a DBA?
A DBA is a way to change your public-facing name without having to make changes to your business entity.
Dig into DBAs
Free Business Name Generator
Free Business Name Generator
Experiment with our AI-powered business name generator to spark your creativity.
Generate names
How to look up an LLC in every state
Every state maintains its own database of registered businesses and business names. Use the table below to find your state and its LLC lookup portal.
State LLC databases
State LLC databases
State LLC lookup vs. nationwide name availability
An LLC lookup confirms whether a business name is available within a specific state, but it doesn’t tell you whether that name is available everywhere.
There’s no single nationwide database for LLC names. Each state maintains its own business registry, and name availability is determined by the state in which you’re registering. A name that’s available in one state may already be registered in another.
This matters if you plan to expand into multiple states, operate online, or serve customers nationwide. If your business operates across state lines, name conflicts in other states can create confusion or legal risk. Running a broader search early can also help you avoid having to rebrand down the road.
Example: A name that’s available in Colorado might already be registered by a business in Texas. That doesn’t necessarily prevent you from forming your LLC in Colorado, but it could create problems if both businesses operate in overlapping markets.
Search each state where you plan to do business and run a federal trademark search through the trademark search database of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This can help confirm whether your preferred name is available nationwide.
Who needs to conduct an LLC lookup?
Anyone planning to start a business in the United States should run a name search before filing formation documents, regardless of the state you’re registering in. If you plan to operate in more than one state, it's worth searching each state where you plan to do business, since name availability is determined independently by each state's registry.
Beyond new business formation, LLC lookups are useful for:
Business owners confirming their own LLC's standing or checking whether past filings were processed correctly
Entrepreneurs researching competitors or verifying that a company name they're considering hasn't already been taken
Contractors, freelancers, or service providers vetting a potential client or employer before agreeing to terms
Attorneys, accountants, or other professionals conducting due diligence or pulling public records ahead of a transaction or legal proceeding
Anyone sending legal correspondence who needs to locate a registered agent's address
How to conduct a free LLC search with LegalZoom
Our free LLC name lookup tool searches official state records for you. Just enter your LLC’s name and location into the tool and run the search. If your name is available for use, you can register it with your state’s regulatory authority. If your name is already registered by another LLC, the tool will tell you so you can choose a different name.
It’s fast, free, and can be used for as many name searches as you need.
The LLC name search tool only gives you preliminary information about whether your business name is available. You’ll also want to search state and federally registered trademarks to make sure other businesses aren’t using your name in other states.
How to run an LLC lookup in your state
Every state is slightly different, but you should be able to search your state’s business registration database for existing LLCs. This can show you if your name is available, as well as if any businesses are currently using names that are similar to yours.
If you're searching your state's registry directly through the Secretary of State's website rather than using LegalZoom's tool, here's how the process generally works:
- Go to the Secretary of State website for the state you’d like. If you’re looking up an existing LLC, search the state where the business primarily operates. If you’re checking for business name availability, check the state you plan on registering in.
- Enter the LLC's name into the search field. Most state systems let you search by full name, partial name, or entity number. Try to use the exact legal name if you know it. If you’re checking for name availability, search for partial name, full name, and exact match to confirm that your name is available.
- Review the results. If several businesses come up with similar names, look at the entity type, status, and formation date to narrow down the right one.
- Click on the entity name to open the full record. You'll typically see the status, registered agent, principal address, formation date, and a link to the filing history.
- Review any linked filings if you need more detail. Articles of organization, annual reports, and statements of information sometimes include additional information, such as manager or organizer names.
TIP: When searching, try removing punctuation and testing both the singular and plural forms of keywords. Many state databases are particular about exact matches, and small formatting differences can cause a business to not appear in results even when it's registered.
Read our state-specific name search guides below. Don't see your state? Check back soon as we continue releasing our state-by-state research on LLC name lookups.
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Maryland
Nevada
New Mexico
New York
Ohio
South Dakota
Texas
Wyoming
What information will you find in an LLC lookup?
The information you get from your state’s LLC lookup tool may vary depending on where you live, but most will tell you similar information, including:
The legal name and any alternate names the business is using
The entity type (LLC, corporation, limited partnership, nonprofit, etc.)
The formation or registration date
The current status of the business
Principal business address
The registered agent’s name and address
Some states also include the names of managers or organizers in the main record or in attached filings. Others don't disclose this information at all.
How to read an LLC status
Most Secretary of State databases show you the business’ status when you run an LLC lookup. This tells you whether the LLC is currently authorized to operate in the state. Here’s what the most common status labels mean.
| Status | What it means |
| Active | The LLC is in good standing and authorized to conduct business in that state. |
| Suspended | The LLC has failed to meet one or more state requirements, such as filing an annual report or paying franchise taxes. A suspended LLC cannot legally conduct business, enforce contracts, or defend itself in court until the issue is resolved. |
| Dissolved | The LLC has been formally terminated. It is no longer authorized to operate in the state. |
| Revoked | The state has revoked the LLC's authorization, typically due to ongoing non-compliance. Similar to suspended, but often more difficult to reverse. |
| Inactive | The LLC is no longer active. This term is used differently across states. Check the specific state's records for more information or context. |
Search for DBAs or fictitious names in each state
Search for DBAs or fictitious names in each state
If you want to operate under a different name than your registered LLC name, you can file a doing business as (DBA) registration. Before you do, you'll want to check whether that name is already in use.
How you search for DBAs depends on your state. Some states register fictitious names at the state level, so you can search through the Secretary of State's website. Others register DBAs at the county level, which means you'll need to search your county's records directly, either online or in person.
If you plan on running your business in more than one state, run a DBA search in each state you’re going to operate in. This way, you can change your preferred fictitious name before registering it.
Need name ideas?
LegalZoom offers a free AI-powered business name generator tailored to over 40 industries, including real estate, construction, and photography. It's fully customizable to your business, your market, and your brand.
What to do after an LLC name search
Once you know that your business name is available, you can register your business with the state.
Register your name with your state’s regulatory agency or reserve your name if you need more time. A business formation service like LegalZoom can help you start your business with confidence.
Apply for an employer identification number (EIN) through the IRS application portal, or sign up for LegalZoom’s Pro or Premium LLC plans and let us handle the application for you.
Register trademarks for any slogans, names, logos, or symbols you want to use. LegalZoom’s trademark registration service is the #1 trademark filer with the USPTO. 1
Register a DBA if you want to use a different name than the one you registered with the Secretary of State. LegalZoom’s DBA filing service can handle the paperwork for you.
Common mistakes to avoid when running an LLC lookup
An LLC lookup is straightforward, but a few missteps can lead to delays or complications down the road.
Only searching for exact matches. Many states reject names that are "confusingly similar," not just identical. Small differences like punctuation, spacing, or pluralization may not be enough to make your name distinguishable.
Assuming availability means full legal clearance. A name can be available in your state but still conflict with a federally registered trademark. Always pair your state search with a trademark lookup.
Skipping searches in other states. If you plan to expand or operate online, checking just one state may not be enough.
Filing before confirming availability. Submitting formation documents without running a business name lookup first increases your risk of rejection and the need to refile and pay fees again.
LegalZoom can help you file your state's formation paperwork for as little as $0 + state filing fees.
What to do after you’ve registered your business name
Reserve a domain name and social handles
Reserve a domain name and social handles
Your online presence is just as important as your storefront. Here’s how to secure it:
Claim your domain name
Choose a domain that matches your business name as closely as possible.
Check social media availability
Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn are key for connecting with customers.
Think long-term
Even if you don’t plan to use all platforms right away, securing them now ensures you won’t lose them later.
Protect your brand with a trademark
Protect your brand with a trademark
A trademark ensures your business name is legally yours and provides:
Exclusive rights
Prevents competitors from using your name.
Legal protection
Enforces your rights in court if necessary.
Brand credibility
Demonstrates professionalism and trustworthiness.
LegalZoom’s trademark registration service connects you with experienced attorneys who guide you through every step of the process, increasing your likelihood of approval.
Frequently asked questions
Is an LLC lookup free?
It is free to search for an LLC with LegalZoom's tool or through your Secretary of State's website, and you can search as many names as you need. Some third-party services charge fees for additional information like EIN lookups or company financial history, but the basic name availability and entity status searches are free through official sources.
What is the difference between an LLC name search and looking up an existing LLC?
A name search checks whether a business name is available for a new LLC you want to register. An entity lookup finds information about a business that's already registered, including its status, registered agent, and filing history. LegalZoom's tool supports both. Select the entity type and enter either a name you want to check or the name of a business you're researching.
Can I look up LLC records in every state with one tool?
Yes. LegalZoom's tool searches official state records across all 50 states. Select the state you want to search, enter the business name, and the tool will check that state's registry. If you're registering an LLC in multiple states, you'll need to run a separate search for each one, since name availability is determined independently in each state. Note that the tool can only search one state at a time.
What does it mean if my name is rejected?
Rejected names typically mean that the name you chose is either already in use or too similar to one registered in your state. It could also mean that your preferred name didn’t follow your state’s required naming laws.
Though you can always reapply for registration, a rejected name means delays for your business. You’ll need to refile your formation documents with a new name and pay any associated fees again. Running a search before you file reduces that risk considerably.
What does it mean if an LLC shows “Suspended” or “Forfeited”?
A suspended LLC has failed to meet state requirements, such as filing an annual report or paying franchise taxes. It can't legally conduct business, enforce contracts, or defend itself in a lawsuit until the issue is resolved. A forfeited status is similar and typically results from the same types of compliance failures. In both cases, the business owner can usually reinstate the LLC by filing any overdue documents and paying any outstanding fees.
Does a name search guarantee that my name is available?
No. A name search through LegalZoom or the Secretary of State gives you a preliminary look at whether the name is registered in that state. It doesn't account for similar names that might be considered deceptively similar under state naming rules, and it doesn't cover federal trademarks. For a complete picture, pair this free LLC search with a federal trademark search.
Can I reserve my LLC name before I'm ready to file?
Most states let you reserve a name for a period of time before filing your formation documents. Reservation periods typically range from 30 to 120 days, depending on the state, and most require a small filing fee. If you're not quite ready to register your business but want to hold the name, check with your state's Secretary of State website for the specific process and fees.
Can I search LLC records in multiple states at once?
There is no national database that combines LLC records from all 50 states into a single searchable index. LegalZoom's tool lets you search one state at a time across all 50 states, which is the most efficient option available. If you plan to operate in multiple states, run a separate search in each one. You can use our table above or find your state’s regulating organization through the National Association of Secretaries of State.
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1 LZ Legal Services is the number one law firm filer by volume for US-based businesses at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
