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In this post, we will show you how to easily search for available business names in California using a free entity search tool provided by the state.
Before you file the required documents for your new LLC, you will need to do an LLC name search first to check the name’s availability. You should make sure that the name that you are considering is unique and different from other LLCs operating within the state.
You can research a business entity name and availability in the State’s online database.
If your business will be an LLC, there are some requirements to be aware of before searching. As for name requirements, most states say your LLC name can end with the abbreviations LLC, L.L.C., or the words Limited Liability Company. Each state has its own requirements and guidelines. Most people choose LLC.
The name must be distinguishable and clearly unique. For example, if there is a business entity named ABC Plumbers, Inc., the name ABC Plumbers, LLC would not be available. The name ABC Plumbers & Contractors, LLC would have a better chance of getting approved. The final determination of a name’s availability is the State where the name is attempting to be registered.
Giving Your New Business a Name
When you name something, you get attached to it. Naming your soon to be business can only spur your decision forward. Backing out on the idea will be less of an option.
When forming a company, you and your co-founders need to brainstorm and decide on a few things, such as your business name.
There are three main ways to form a new business entity.
- Do it yourself
- Hire an attorney to do it for you
- Hire an affordable LLC filing service like ZenBusiness or Incfile
Before contacting the folks at ZenBusiness or Incfile, you need to:
- Come up with a name that hasn’t been used before. Visit the California Secretary of State website and enter the business name in the Business Name Search database.
- That name, even if unique or derivative, shouldn’t sound like an existing one as the California SOS would reject it.
- Ensure that the name does not violate any California state law.
- You can try calling the State Business Information Line at 916-653-3794 and ask them some business name-related questions you might have.
- For more info, visit the California Business Entities website.
How To Do A California Business Name Search
Visit the California Business Entity Search page.
https://businesssearch.sos.ca.gov/
In the “Search Type” section, enter the type of business and then in the “Search Criteria” section enter a business name and select the search filter “Keyword” “Exact” or “Begins with” and then search. When searching for names in California remember,
- Don’t enter LLC after the name or variations (LLC, L.L.C., etc.) while doing searches.
- Search for both the plural and singular versions of names. For example, if your LLC name has the word “Publishers” in it, also do a search with “Publisher”.
- Search the first 1-2 words of your LLC name at first. For example, if your desired LLC name is “Best Electrician Service LLC”, do a search for “Best Electrician” and continue searching with some variations.
- The point is to check for any potential name conflicts and to come up with a unique business name.
Searching the California database could take a bit of time, but with a few searches, you should get a pretty good idea about the availability of the business name that you are interested in registering.
https://www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/name-availability/
The “Checking Name Availability” page gives instructions on how to request name availability by mail and by a Prepay Priority Telephone Service. These are additional options to check name availability.
It’s important to note that even when a given business appears to be available, the California Secretary of State will do their own search to confirm availability. There could be name variations or abbreviations that could cause a conflict.
That’s how you can search for a business name in California. Again, the California Secretary of State will make the final determination on a business name’s availability.
California Secretary of State
Mailing address:
Secretary of State
Business Entities
PO Box 944228
Sacramento, CA 94244-2280
Websites & Phone:
CA Secretary of State
CA Business Entities
916-653-3794
8:00am – 5:00pm, M-F
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Disclaimer – This website does not provide tax or legal advice. It is for general informational purposes only. The business formation services mentioned on our website are Document Filing Services and CANNOT provide you with legal or financial advice. It is presented with the understanding that these Document Filing Services ARE NOT engaged in rendering legal and/or accounting services. If you need legal or tax advice, please consult with a competent attorney and/or accountant. Features, pricing, and service options on our website are subject to change without notice.