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About
ReviewsSecretary of State and Business Entity Search Links by State
When forming an LLC, verifying a business name, or researching a company’s legal status, one of the most important tools available is the business entity search provided by each state’s Secretary of State (or equivalent agency). These government websites allow entrepreneurs, legal professionals, and curious consumers to access public records about businesses operating within that state. In this article, we provide a list of all SOS websites and corporation search links so you can quickly access the relevant state businesses. We also explain the role of the Secretary of State in business registration, why business entity searches are essential, and how to use these tools effectively.
Steps to Perform a Business Entity or Name Availability Search
- Navigate to the Secretary of State’s business services website for the target state
- Locate and open the “Business Entity Search” (or similarly named) portal
- Choose your search criterion (entity name, entity ID number, registered agent, etc.)
- Enter the relevant information into the search field and submit
- Review the list of matching entities returned by the search
- Click on the specific entity to view its detailed filing information
- Confirm the entity’s status (active, inactive, dissolved) and filing dates
- Download or print the available entity report or certificate of good standing
What Does the Secretary of State Do for Businesses?
In most U.S. states, the Secretary of State is responsible for managing business entity filings and maintaining public records. This includes:
- Registering new LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and nonprofits.
- Storing Articles of Organization, Articles of Incorporation, and amendments.
- Recording annual reports and statements of information.
- Keeping records on registered agents and business addresses.
- Certifying a business’s status as active, inactive, dissolved, or in good standing.
For anyone starting a business, the Secretary of State’s website is often the first stop to ensure a name is available and to file the necessary formation paperwork.
Why Perform a Business Entity Search?
Business entity searches serve a variety of purposes and are useful well beyond the business formation stage. Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Check Business Name Availability
Before registering an LLC or corporation, it is essential to verify that your desired name is not already in use or too similar to another entity’s name. A business name must be distinguishable to be legally approved.
2. Verify a Business’s Existence or Status
Consumers, investors, and vendors can look up a company to verify if it is active, registered in a particular state, and in good standing with state authorities.
3. Identify Registered Agents
Each state requires businesses to designate a registered agent. These records are publicly accessible through business search portals and are useful for sending legal or tax correspondence.
4. Perform Due Diligence
Whether you are considering a business partnership or verifying the legitimacy of a vendor or client, entity search tools can reveal important details such as the business’s formation date, filing history, and whether it has been dissolved.
Secretary of State Websites and Business Entity Search Links by State
Websites and Business Entity Search Links for U.S. Territories and the District of Columbia
| Jurisdiction | Secretary of State or Equivalent Website | Business Entity Search Portal |
|---|---|---|
| DC Business Search | DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection | CorpOnline (DLCP) (Login required) |
| Puerto Rico | Departamento de Estado | Registry of Corporations and Entities |
| Guam | Department of Revenue and Taxation | Business License and Permit Center |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs | Business License Search |
| American Samoa | Department of Commerce | Business Licensing |
| Northern Mariana Islands | Department of Commerce | Registrar of Corporations |
How to Use a Business Entity Search Portal
Although the design and features vary slightly by state, most Secretary of State websites provide a free, easy-to-use business entity search tool. Here are a few universal tips for getting accurate results:
Use the Correct Business Name
Start by typing the full business name, if known. If you’re unsure, try searching by partial names or keywords. Some states also offer advanced filtering by entity type or status.
Review the Status Column
Many search tools show whether a business is active, inactive, administratively dissolved, or revoked. This status helps determine if the entity is currently compliant with state requirements.
Examine Filing History and Documents
Some portals allow you to view original Articles of Organization, annual reports, and certificates of good standing. These documents offer insight into the company’s operational history.
Confirm the Registered Agent and Office Address
The registered agent name and address are key for sending legal notices or verifying where official business correspondence is handled.
Watch for Third-Party Websites
Always use official government websites when conducting an LLC search. Many third-party sites charge unnecessary fees or provide incomplete information. Bookmark the correct state pages and use them directly.
Conclusion
Whether you are forming an LLC, confirming the legitimacy of a vendor, or researching a business’s public filings, Secretary of State business search portals are the go-to source for accurate and official information. By understanding how to access and interpret these records, you can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary risks.
Use these tools early in the formation process and revisit them regularly to stay informed about your own company or others you may do business with. Every state and territory has its own system, so be sure to use the correct portal based on where the business is registered.
If you’re just starting out and looking for help with forming an LLC or choosing a business name, consider using a service that can automate these steps and ensure you’re meeting all the necessary state requirements.
Common Questions About Business Entity Searches
No. The vast majority of business entity search tools provided by state governments are free to use. Some may charge a small fee for downloading certified documents, such as a Certificate of Good Standing.
Generally, business entity searches do not include detailed ownership information or financial statements. They do provide basic filing information, including the registered agent, formation date, and sometimes officers or directors for corporations.
Try alternate spellings, search only part of the name, or remove punctuation. If you still find nothing, the business may be registered under a different name, or it may not be registered in that state at all.