Business Name
Search

Check if your desired business name is available before you file. We search state databases and verify your name meets all requirements.

Search Your NameNaming Tips

Why Search Before Filing?

Choosing the right business name is one of the most important decisions you'll make. A name search helps you avoid rejection, legal issues, and wasted time.

States will reject formation documents if your proposed name is too similar to an existing registered business. Our search helps you know before you file.

Important

A business name search only checks state registrations. For comprehensive brand protection, also consider a trademark search.

Common Reasons for Rejection

  • Name identical to existing business
  • Name too similar to existing business
  • Missing required designator (LLC, Inc.)
  • Contains restricted words without approval
  • Implies government affiliation

What We Check

Our comprehensive name search covers all the bases

State Database Search

We search your state's business registration database to check if your desired name is available.

Similar Name Check

We identify names that are similar to yours that might cause confusion or rejection.

Naming Requirements

We verify your name meets all state-specific naming requirements for your entity type.

Restricted Words Check

We identify any restricted words in your name that might require special approval or licensing.

Name Reservation

If available, we can reserve your business name while you prepare your formation documents.

Alternative Suggestions

If your name is taken, we'll help you brainstorm and check alternative name options.

Tips for Choosing a Business Name

Follow these guidelines to pick a great name for your business

1

Keep it simple and easy to spell

2

Make sure it's easy to pronounce

3

Consider how it will look as a domain name

4

Avoid names too similar to existing businesses

5

Include required designators (LLC, Inc., etc.)

6

Check for trademark conflicts

7

Think about future growth and expansion

8

Test it with potential customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about business name searches

Searching for your business name before filing helps ensure it's available and won't conflict with existing businesses. Most states won't approve formation documents if the name is too similar to an existing registered entity.
A name may be unavailable if it's identical or too similar to an existing registered business in your state, contains restricted words (like "Bank" or "Insurance" without proper licensing), or doesn't meet state naming requirements.
No. A business name search checks state business registrations, while a trademark search checks federal trademark registrations. You should do both—your name could be available in your state but trademarked federally by another company.
Most states require LLCs to include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" in the name, and corporations must include "Inc.", "Corp.", or similar. Names can't imply government affiliation or include certain restricted words without approval.
Yes, most states allow you to reserve a business name for 60-120 days while you prepare your formation documents. This prevents others from registering the name during that time. We can help you file a name reservation.
If your name is taken, you can try variations (adding words, changing spelling), choose a completely different name, or file a DBA to operate under your desired name if it's not trademarked. We'll help you find alternatives.

Search Your Business Name

Don't risk rejection. Check if your business name is available and meets all state requirements before you file.

Start Your Search

Questions? Call us at 1-800-925-3240