Business Name Search
Is your business name available? Run a preliminary check against official state business records before you file — then claim the name by forming your LLC. Every result links to the official Secretary of State database, the only place an answer is final.
- All 50 states covered
- Links to official databases
- Free preliminary check
Some links on this site are affiliate links — if you form an LLC through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosure.
Everything you need before you file
Check name availability
Search state records for the same or confusingly similar entity names.
Naming rules by state
Required endings, restricted words, and each state's distinguishability test.
Reserve a name
Hold an available name with the state while you get ready to file.
Form your LLC
Claim the name permanently — form the entity through Northwest.
How it works
From a preliminary check to a filed entity in three clear steps.
Browse by state
Each state page carries its rules, reservation fees, and official sources.
Popular states
All naming-rules pages →How the check works
Search state records
Pick a state and enter your proposed name. We query records for that state and flag entities using the same or confusingly similar words.
Read the verdict carefully
"Appears available" is a strong signal, never a guarantee — only the official state database is authoritative, and we link it on every result.
Claim the name
If your name is open, verify it on the official database, then reserve it or claim it permanently by forming your LLC under that name.
Search by state
State pages include that state's naming rules, reservation fees, and official sources. More states are added as their rules are verified.
Naming rules matter as much as availability
An open name can still be rejected: every state requires a valid entity ending, bans or restricts certain words, and applies its own similarity test. Check the requirements before you file.
Found a name you love? Claim it before someone else does.
Forming an LLC under your name is the only way to lock it in permanently. Northwest handles the filing, registered-agent service, and paperwork.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Not a government service; a name is confirmed available solely by the official state registry.