Free New Hampshire Business Name Check
Starting a business? Use our free name check tool to check your business name against the New Hampshire Secretary of State 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.
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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.
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They made starting a business easy
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I really appreciate the really easy…
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Legal Zoom made setting up my LLC so…
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Fast process and very easy steps
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The experience of setting up my own LLC…
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Efficient and professional assistance…
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My LLC setup
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Starting a new LLC
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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
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!
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Spoke clearly, was professional and very knowledgeable about his business
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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
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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!
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The couple of representatives I spoke…
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LegalZoom has been a great source to…
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Willie is the man!!
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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!
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Being a business owner of two businesses...
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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
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Great help
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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
Want to set up a thriving business? Selecting a name that stands out is the first step. This is your guide to choosing a unique name in Washington that sets your business up for success.
Find a name, launch your dream
Want to set up a thriving business? Selecting a name that stands out is the first step. This is your guide to choosing a unique name in Washington that sets your business up for success.
Pick the perfect name
Choose a business name that’s unique, easy to remember, and clearly conveys your particular goods or services.
File your formation paperwork with the New Hampshire Secretary of State. Once they accept your filing, the name is officially yours.
Registration only protects your name within state borders. For comprehensive protection, consider 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 New Hampshire Business Name Search
A business name search in New Hampshire allows you to see if your desired name is available according to state records. Plus, you can check information about existing companies in the state.
How to Conduct a New Hampshire Business Name Search
A business name search in New Hampshire allows you to see if your desired name is available according to state records. Plus, you can check information about existing companies in the state.
Key takeaways
Don’t launch your business until you perform a New Hampshire Secretary of State business search, which helps you determine if your desired name is available for use.
Once you’ve confirmed your name is available, register your business with the Secretary of State.
The Secretary of State may reject your registration paperwork if your business name isn’t distinguishable from others on record.
LegalZoom’s free business name search tool provides a preliminary check of name availability in New Hampshire.
Get into the details of a New Hampshire name search below, and learn more about finding a business name and registering your business in The Granite State.
Why conduct a New Hampshire business search?
A New Hampshire business search is crucial for ensuring that your name is available before registering with the Secretary of State. In New Hampshire, no two registered business names can be the same or too similar, so the Secretary of State will review every name listed on formation paperwork before approving the filing. If your name isn’t distinguishable from a reserved, registered, or trade name in the state, you’ll run the risk of having your business filing rejected, costing you time and money.
So, a business name search before you start the registration process gives you peace of mind that you’ll likely have your formation documents approved without a hitch.
New Hampshire business naming rules
In addition to entity-specific naming guidelines, such as including business type designators (e.g., LLC or Inc.), businesses in New Hampshire must have names that are distinguishable from others on record. Take a look at what does not constitute a distinguishable business name in the state:
Adding or removing articles (“The Granite State Outfitters” vs. “Granite State Outfitters”)
Making a word singular or plural (“Creature Comforts Home & Gift” vs. “Creature Comfort Home & Gift”)
Using a different phonetic spelling (“Gear Tech” vs. “Gear Tek”)
Abbreviating or spelling out a word or words (“New Hampshire Hospice Care” vs “NH Hospice Care”)
Including a different entity designator (“Brothers Bike Co.” vs. “Brothers Bike LLC”)
Adding or removing punctuation or special symbols (“R&D Home Builders” vs. “R/D Home Builders”)
Replacing a numeral with a spelled-out number, or vice versa (“Number 1 Nails” vs. “Number One Nails”)
As you search for New Hampshire business names, keep these rules in mind.
Who needs to conduct a New Hampshire business name search?
If you plan on registering and operating a business in New Hampshire, you should run a business name search. Here are some key examples of what types of businesses will benefit from a name availability lookup:
Corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs). Both of these entities must register with the Secretary of State and use the appropriate entity type designators.
Nonprofit corporations. Nonprofits are a type of corporation. Like for-profit corporations, they must register with the state to qualify for tax incentives.
Limited partnerships (LPs) and limited liability partnerships (LLPs). New Hampshire formally recognizes LPs and LLPs. They must also use appropriate entity type desigators.
General partnerships and sole proprietorships don’t register with the Secretary of State, as they’re not formally recognized. However, if a general partnership or sole proprietorship would like to operate under a name other than their legal name(s), they’ll need to register a trade name in New Hampshire, also known as a “doing business as” (DBA). Trade names must be distinguishable from reserved and registered business names, so a New Hampshire business name lookup is necessary.
Example: If Jane Doe makes and sells bracelets at her local farmer's market, but wants to operate as "Jane's Bracelet Company," she must register a DBA.
Specific entity naming requirements are listed in the New Hampshire Revised Statutes. Read more about each of these business types below with our NH business formation guides.
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
Partnership
(LP or LLP)
Partnership
(LP or LLP)
Allows business partners to work together while maintaining some liability protections.
Partnership basics
Doing business as
(DBA)
Doing business as
(DBA)
A way to change your public-facing name without having to make changes to your business entity.
Dig into DBAs
How to conduct a New Hampshire business name search with LegalZoom
The easiest and fastest way to check state name availability is with our free business name check tool. Once you’ve entered your search criteria (business name and entity type), the tool quickly—but thoroughly—scans the New Hampshire Secretary of State business entity database for matching results. The search spans all business entity types, including corporations, LLCs, and partnerships, to deliver the most accurate results.
If the tool gives you a matching result, that means that your name is likely unavailable. In this case, keep entering different business names until you find one that’s available. And don’t worry—you have unlimited searches, all for free!
How to search the New Hampshire business name database
You can also conduct a business name search using the New Hampshire business search tool. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Navigate to the New Hampshire QuickStart business lookup. The New Hampshire Department of State’s business search tool is where you’ll conduct your search.
Step 2: Enter your search criteria. Type in the business name you’d like to look up in the “Business Name” search bar. You can select filters such as “Starts With,” “Exact Match,” “Contains,” or “All Words.” You can also check the option to have the tool search similar-sounding names. We suggest selecting “Contains” and not checking the similar-sounding name option, as that option produces results that might not particularly pertain to your search criteria.
Step 3: Interpret the results. If there are any matches in the state’s database, they’ll show up on the results page. You can view the business name, business type (including trade names), and status. If an entity’s status is listed as dissolved or administratively dissolved, its name may be up for grabs, as long as it’s been over 120 days since the dissolution.
Tip: If you want to use an expired business name, it's best to confirm availability with the Secretary of State first, as these can be tricky.
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 New Hampshire
There are a few additional ways to check business name availability: through trademarks and online searches. Cover all your bases by conducting the following name lookups.
USPTO trademark search
Just because your business name is available for registration in New Hampshire doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s not trademarked nationally. A business with a federal trademark may not be registered in New Hampshire, but their name is still protected. It's essential to run a trademark search with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to avoid infringing on a federal trademark.
Free trademark search tool. LegalZoom’s Free Trademark Search combs the USPTO’s database for exact names that match your search criteria. For every matching result, you can review the status and class details. Feel free to search as many names or taglines as are on your list.
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 between a federal search and a combined federal, state, and common law search, based on your specific needs.
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
Domain name search & social media search
You might not be thinking about it yet, but your business’ online presence plays a role in its success. It’s helpful to have name consistency across all customer touchpoints, including your website, any online business profiles, and social media. To check the availability of your name on these digital assets, do the following:
Search for your business name on the internet. Look up your desired name on search engines, such as Google and and Bing, to see if any similar names or exact matches pop up in the top results. If they do—and even if they’re not New Hampshire companies—it may be a good idea to try a different name to avoid customer confusion.
Check domain name availability. Reserving a unique domain name is the first step in creating a website, so make sure that it aligns with your business name. You can check domain name availability on sites like GoDaddy, Bluehost, and Namecheap. If you find one that’s available, purchase it as soon as possible to keep others from snagging it.
Browse social media. Let customers easily find you on social media by choosing handles that match your business name. Search for your name on social media platforms you think you’ll use; if it’s available, create your profiles right away, even if you’re not quite ready to post.
All of these searches give you the best possible chance of successfully marketing your business and providing customers and clients with a consistent, trustworthy experience.
What to do after a New Hampshire business name lookup
Once you’ve solidified your business name and ensured that it’s available, it’s time to move on to the registration process:
Reserve your name. If you’re not ready to form your business, you can file a New Hampshire name reservation, which lasts for 120 days.
Register your business with the New Hampshire Secretary of State. Registration makes your business official, so submit your formation paperwork to the Secretary of State. LegalZoom can help you start your New Hampshire business with confidence by filing the appropriate registration documents for you.
Register a New Hampshire trade name if you want to operate under a name other than your legal name or the one listed on your formation paperwork. To register, you can either use LegalZoom’s DBA service or submit Form TN-1 to the Secretary of State.
LegalZoom can help you file your state's formation paperwork and get your business on the right track.
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 an existing New Hampshire business
In addition to name availability searches for your own business, you can also search for information about other businesses in New Hampshire. Check out these methods for a New Hampshire business lookup based on the details you’re searching for.
Search with an employer identification number (EIN)
Many companies in New Hampshire have EINs, which are federal employer identification numbers issued by the Internal Revenue Service. If a business has an EIN, you can typically find out information about their financial and legal standing.
But searching a business’ EIN isn’t an option through the state, as there is no state database for EINs. Instead, you can use one of the following methods:
Use a third-party service. Data and analytics companies, such as Dun & Bradstreet, may be able to provide information about a specific business that has an EIN, usually for a fee.
Perform a search with credit bureaus. Gather credit, financial, and legal details about a business, with options like the Experian Business Credit Report.
Both of these searches are great options for doing your due diligence before partnering with or investing in a New Hampshire company.
Contact the registered agent
If you need to send legal documents to a New Hampshire business, you can do so by contacting the company’s registered agent. This information is easily found online:
Step 1: Find the agent. Visit the New Hampshire Department of State’s business search tool, and enter the company’s name that you wish to look up. Find the correct business on the results page, and click the name. On the business’ profile page, navigate to the section labeled “Registered Agent Information.” The registered agent’s name, office address, and mailing address should be listed here.
Step 2: Contact the agent. Reach out to the agent at their office or mailing address.
You typically only need to contact a registered agent to serve legal documents or for formal legal communications.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if your desired New Hampshire business name is already taken?
If your exact name is already registered, you'll need to choose a variation that is clearly distinguishable under New Hampshire law, or choose another name entirely. Run another name availability search to check if it’s taken.
What if your New Hampshire LLC filing is rejected because of the name?
If your LLC filing is rejected because of the name, you’ll need to refile your articles of organization with the Secretary of State and pay the filing fee again. Before you do so, however, make sure that the new name is available by conducting a New Hampshire business name search.
Can you reserve a New Hampshire business name before forming your LLC?
Yes, you can reserve a New Hampshire business name for 120 days while you gather all the information needed to file your formation paperwork. This keeps others from reserving or registering the name for the stated time period.
Does a New Hampshire business name search protect your name nationwide?
No, registering your business name with the New Hampshire Secretary of State only protects it within New Hampshire—and only keeps others from reserving or registering it. For comprehensive protection, consider registering a state trademark and/or a federal trademark to keep others from using your business name.
Get helpful tips and information
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.
