Free Florida Business Name Check
Starting a business? Use our free name check tool to search the Florida Secretary of State database and see if your business name is available.
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.
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!
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!
Legalzoom help me set up my LLC efficiently. The instructions were simple, and I had a positive experience overall.
Legalzoom made starting my LLC fast, easy, and stress-free.
legal Zoom Concierge
legal Zoom Concierge agent, Jelly, called me and walked me through the process of selecting how I wanted to set up my LLC with through explanations. I recommend using the Legal Zoom concierge for customers not yet familiar with the process of creating and LLC.
Smooth, Professional, and Worth It — LegalZoom Made My LLC Easy
I recently used LegalZoom to form my Cleaning LLC, and overall I had a very positive experience. From start to finish, the process was efficient, transparent, and far less stressful than I expected. What went well: Easy to Navigate: The LegalZoom website clearly guided me through every step. I didn’t get lost in jargon or red tape. Clear Pricing & No Surprises: Costs were laid out ahead of time, and all required state fees were explained. No hidden fees popped up afterward. Fast Processing: Once I submitted my paperwork, things moved quickly — I got my official LLC documents sooner than I anticipated. Helpful Customer Support: When I had a few questions (about the operating agreement, registered agent, etc.), their support reps were attentive and professional. They helped clarify things without rushing me. All-in-One Convenience: LegalZoom handled all the official filings and paperwork. I didn’t need to go to the Secretary of State or juggle multiple portals. That saved me a ton of time. What could be better: Upsells & Add-ons: LegalZoom offers several add-on options (e.g. expedited processing, kits, templates, etc.). While some were useful, it felt like a lot of extras pushed along the way. I’d recommend reviewing each optional service carefully before adding it. Turnaround Time on Some Documents: A few documents (beyond the core LLC formation) took longer than anticipated. If you’re under a tight deadline, you may want to choose expedited options. Customization Limits: For standard LLCs with typical needs (like mine, a cleaning business), everything was fine. But if your business is more complex (multi-member, special licensing, etc.), you might hit limits on how much the template-based services can tailor to your specific case. Overall Recommendation: If you’re looking to form an LLC without hiring a law firm or figuring out all the legal and bureaucratic steps yourself, LegalZoom is a solid choice. For my Cleaning LLC, it delivered excellent value. The convenience, guidance, and peace of mind it provided were well worth the cost. I’d definitely use them again or recommend them to others starting a business.
Was very easy to use and I got my LLC…
Was very easy to use and I got my LLC the same day. I was SHOCKED. I know every state is different but it was like a miracle. Thank you LZoom!
My experience has been excellent from…
My experience has been excellent from the first day opening my LLC, and continues to be great now that my business is thriving. All of my important documents are organized and secured on their sight. Which is amazing when getting loans and doing my taxes. They also provide great customer service every time I call with questions. Would highly recommend using LegalZoom. Plan to start another business and will be using them again. Thank you LegalZoom!
Five Stars For LegalZoom
LegalZoom offers a streamlined and accessible platform for creating an LLC, simplifying complex legal procedures for entrepreneurs. Their user-friendly interface and comprehensive guidance ensure that even individuals without legal expertise can confidently establish their businesses. Overall, LegalZoom enhances efficiency and provides valuable support in the LLC formation process.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
Showing selected reviews
Find a name, launch your dream
Starting a business? Use our free name check tool to search the Florida Secretary of State database and see if your business name is available.
Find a name, launch your dream
Starting a business? Use our free name check tool to search the Florida Secretary of State database and see if your business name is available.
Pick the perfect name
Choose a business name that speaks to your company’s values and services. Avoid names that use unusual characters or that are overly complicated.
File your business formation documents with the Florida Secretary of State. You can also reserve your business name for 120 days.
Forming a business in Florida only protects your business name inside the state. For comprehensive, nationwide protection, consider filing for a trademark.
Start your business, guided by experience
Start your business, guided by experience
From naming your business to registering it as an LLC, our services help ensure accuracy and let you start your business with confidence. Let us handle the details so you can focus on your vision.
From naming your business to registering it as an LLC, our services help ensure accuracy and let you start your business with confidence. Let us handle the details so you can focus on your vision.
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 a Florida Business Search
When forming a business in Florida, you’ll need to conduct a business name lookup to avoid potential legal disagreements with businesses already registered in the state.
How to Conduct a Florida Business Search
When forming a business in Florida, you’ll need to conduct a business name lookup to avoid potential legal disagreements with businesses already registered in the state.
Key takeaways
The Florida Secretary of State's official records are the starting point for legally checking the availability of LLC and corporate names.
LegalZoom’s free business name search will confirm the availability of your desired business name within the Florida Secretary of State database.
Perform this search before submitting your formation documents to prevent choosing a name that is either already in use or misleadingly similar to an existing one, which could cause your application to be rejected.
Get into the details of a business name search below, and learn more about registering a business in Florida.
Why conduct a Florida business search
A business name search helps you figure out if your preferred name is available for use in Florida. You should search the exact name you want, plus variations and similar names. If you try to form your business with a name that’s already in use or is too similar to an existing name, the Secretary of State will reject your application, and you’ll have to start over. This can cost you money and keep you from opening your doors quickly.
Example: If "Sunshine Coffee" is already registered in Florida, avoid confusion by choosing something distinctive, like "Sunshine Coffee Corner" or "The Coffee Café."
Who needs to conduct a Florida business name search
Any business that plans on operating in Florida should conduct a business name lookup before registering their business. This is because your name must be distinguishable from others already on file. You should conduct this search before filing your formation documents to ensure your chosen name meets the state’s legal requirements and is accepted upon submission.
The entities required to register a unique name are:
Limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations. These businesses must file formation documents with the Florida Secretary of State, making a name check non-negotiable. These business names must also include an entity type designator, such as “LLC” or “Inc.”
Limited partnerships. Like LLCs and corporations, these entities must register their name with the Secretary of State and adhere to name availability rules.
- Nonprofits. Like for-profit corporations, nonprofits must follow naming guidelines and must register with the state to qualify for nonprofit tax incentives.
General partnerships and sole proprietorships. These structures generally do not need to file documents with the state so long as they operate under the owner or owners’ name(s). However, if they operate under a trade name (a doing business as, or DBA), that name must be registered at the county level.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
The simplest, most flexible way to structure your business to protect personal assets.
Read about LLCs
Corporation
(S corp or C corp)
Corporation
(S corp or C corp)
A more complex structure with the ability to issue shares and go public, or go global.
Explore corporations
Nonprofit
(501c3)
Nonprofit
(501c3)
A structure designed to support a public or social benefit that can be eligible for tax breaks.
Dig into nonprofits
Partnership
(LP or LLP)
Partnership
(LP or LLP)
Allows business partners to work together while maintaining some liability protections.
Partnership basics
How to conduct a business name search with LegalZoom
LegalZoom’s free Florida business name lookup tool streamlines the search process by checking the official state database on your behalf. Enter the name you wish to use and let the tool do the work. It will check your preferred name’s availability against existing Florida corporations, partnerships, and other registered business entities. If it passes the name check, you can get everything ready for filing and registration.
LegalZoom’s business name lookup tool is completely free to use and gives you an idea of the availability of your name in Florida. However, you should also search for similar names and consider state and national trademark searches.
How to conduct a trademark search
LegalZoom makes it easy to conduct a trademark search for your preferred business name. You have two options.
Use LegalZoom’s free trademark search tool. LegalZoom’s Free Trademark Search checks for exact matches with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The search will highlight exact and similar matches to your query.
Get more information with a comprehensive trademark search. Our Comprehensive Trademark Search executes a full-scope search of existing and pending marks with the USPTO and provides ranked results to help pinpoint potential conflicts. You can select a federal search or a combined federal, state, and common law search, based on your needs.
With our free trademark lookup tool, you can search as many names as you want. When you’re ready to register your trademark, turn to LegalZoom’s Premium Trademark Registration service—the #1 trademark filer with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 1
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.
Other ways to conduct a business name search in Florida
Though checking the Florida Secretary of State’s database or using LegalZoom’s business name search is the best way to make sure your name is available, it’s not the only search you may need to do when starting your business
USPTO trademark search
If your name is available in Florida, you’re protected all the way from Pensacola to Jacksonville and down to the Keys. However, your business name may infringe upon a federal trademark even if it’s available to use in Florida, so it’s important to run a search with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to avoid infringing on another brand’s federal rights.
You have a few options:
Do a free search with LegalZoom. Our free trademark search will tell you if your slogan, name, or other brand asset is already in use by another company.
Use the USPTO's trademark search tool. The USPTO offers an online search tool that allows you to search by exact names, words, phrases, and even designs. Be sure to search not only for exact matches but also for phonetic similarities and related meanings.
Conduct a comprehensive trademark search. A comprehensive search typically reviews state-level registrations, common law uses (unregistered marks), and the USPTO's federal database. LegalZoom’s comprehensive trademark search for Florida businesses starts at $199.
Trademarks can help you protect your brand’s identity, including logos, names, and slogans, across the United States. Running a search before you register your business can reduce your risk of trademark infringement and ensure you’ll be able to register a trademark if you wish.
Domain name search & social media search
Your website is your online storefront. Acquiring a good domain name is vital for establishing your digital presence and preventing customer confusion.
Check availability. Use any major domain registrar's website (e.g., GoDaddy or Bluehost) to verify if your desired business name or a variation is available as a top-level domain, such as .com or .net.
Use search engines. Search tools like Google or Bing can help you discover domain names that are similar to the one you are considering. Search for your ideal domain name or a near variation to see if it is currently in use.
Browse social media. Do a quick name search on various social media platforms (like Instagram, TikTok, Youtube, and Facebook). If an existing business is already using your name on these websites, you may want to pick a different name to distinguish yourself, avoid confusion, and secure a stellar account handle.
A solid online presence is one of the best ways to market your business, so a thorough web search will ensure your business can secure a foothold in the digital space.
What to do after a Florida business name lookup
Once you know that your preferred name is available for use in Florida, you can register your business with the state.
Register your name with the Florida Secretary of State or reserve it for up to 120 days so no one else can use it. You can also work with an LLC formation service like LegalZoom to start your Florida business with confidence.
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 doing business as (DBA) if you want to run your business under a different name than the one registered with the state. This is useful for businesses who want to drop “LLC” or “Inc.” from their names or that simply want to use a name that speaks to their brand. LegalZoom’s DBA filing service handles the paperwork for you.
Reserve your domain name and create a website for your business.
Set up social media accounts using your preferred handles. Try to keep them aligned with your company name if possible.
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.
How to find information about a Florida business
If you’re trying to find information about a Florida business, there are multiple avenues depending on the type of information you have and what exactly you’re looking for.
Searching with an employer identification number (EIN)
While the Florida Secretary of State search is primarily name-based, an employer identification number can be used for certain financial and credit verifications.
Check the state’s database. You can search for a business by EIN through the Florida Division of Corporations website. Choose the FEI/EIN search option, enter the number you have, and view the results.
Use third-party services. Data providers like Dun & Bradstreet allow you to search for a company using its EIN, often for a fee.
Run a search with credit bureaus. Credit bureaus like Experian let you run searches for businesses by EIN for a fee. This gives you insight into the company’s financial and business credit health.
These searches are a good choice if you’re trying to decide if a partner is financially stable and worth working with. It’s ideal for B2B transactions where choosing a long-term partner to support your business can help provide stability and growth.
Searching with a registered agent
The registered agent is the required, legal point of contact for an LLC or Florida corporation, responsible for receiving official legal and tax notices on behalf of the business.
Step 1: Find the agent. Utilize the Florida Secretary of State's public business search, searching by the company name, to find the name and address of its registered agent. This data is part of the public record.
Step 2: Contact the agent. You may reach out to the registered agent if you need additional information about the business, as they are the official contact for legal service and can sometimes be a source for general contact details.
Searching by or for the registered agent is most useful when you need to formally deliver legal documents or obtain contact information that is not otherwise publicly provided by the state. You can often use partial names if you are unsure of the registered agent’s full name.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my Florida business name lookup shows that my name is taken?
If the name search shows that another business has registered your preferred name with the Florida Secretary of State, you’ll need to choose a different name. This is true even if the business using your preferred name is operating in a different county than you.
If my business name is approved, does that prevent others from using similar names in Florida?
Yes. If your name is approved and registered with the Secretary of State in Florida, others can’t use the name for their businesses. However, that protection only applies to businesses operating in Florida. Businesses outside of Florida may still be able to use your business name. If you want to protect your name, logo, or other asset nationally, you’ll want to register a federal trademark.
Does Florida have rules for business names?
Yes, Florida does have rules regarding the names you can use for your business. For example, the name must be unique and not deceptively similar to names already in use in the state. Your name must also include any required designators like LLC, Inc., or Corp., depending on the structure you register under. You must also avoid using words that imply a different type of business than the one you’re running.
Do I still need to register a trademark for my Florida business?
Registering a business in Florida only prevents others from forming businesses with that name; it doesn’t offer trademark protection. If you want to protect your brand’s assets nationally, you’ll need to register for a federal trademark with the USPTO. LegalZoom’s trademark registration service can make the process easy, saving you time and money over using an attorney.
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.
