An independent business name search service, not a government website. How our checks work

We run preliminary name checks against state business records to help you see whether a name appears to be taken before you file. Only the official Secretary of State database is authoritative, and we link to it on every result so you can verify for yourself. Some links on this site are affiliate links; see our disclosure.

Read more: How the check works

BusinessNameSearch Pre-filing name check
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Official state records · 50 states

Business Name Availability Checker

Check a proposed business name against state records, then verify the result on the official database.

Check a business name

  • All 50 states
  • Official database links
  • Free preliminary check
One search, three checks

How the check works

  1. Search the state register

    Choose the state and enter the distinctive words in your proposed name.

  2. Read the preliminary result

    Review possible conflicts and the state-specific naming note.

  3. Verify on the official site

    Use the official database link in the result before you reserve or file the name.

Published state checkers

Search by state

Each state page combines the checker with its official portal, filing rules, fees, and source-backed walkthrough.

Before you file

Reference tools and state data