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How the name check works
The tool does two things. First it normalises your name. It strips entity endings such as LLC, L.L.C., Inc. and Corp., removes punctuation, and drops words like "the" that states usually ignore. "The Blue Harbor, LLC" becomes "Blue Harbor".
Then it searches our copy of that state's register. Several states publish their whole company register as free open data, and we load those files on a set schedule. You see each matching record on this page: name, status, type, file number, formation date and, where the file has it, the registered agent. Every result shows the date of the state file it came from.
The answer is one of three: an exact match, similar names, or nothing found. An exact match with an active status means the name is taken. Similar names need a closer look. Nothing found means the name looks available, as of the file date.
For a state that does not publish a free file, the tool opens that state's official search instead. Where the search page accepts a name in its web address, it opens already filled in. Where it does not, you get the official link and the exact steps.
The tool does not decide anything. Only the state does, when it reviews your filing. Use the official search link under the results to confirm a name before you file.
Reading the results
You are looking for names on file that the state would treat as the same as yours. Scan the list for:
- the same core words with a different ending, such as "Blue Harbor Inc."
- a plural or possessive, such as "Blue Harbors" or "Blue Harbor's"
- the same words with different spacing, such as "Blueharbor"
- reserved names and, in some states, registered assumed names
Check the status column too. States differ on whether a dissolved company's name can be used again, and how soon. The state guide explains the local rule.
What the result means
Nothing close shows up. The name looks available in that state. That is a strong sign, not a decision. The state checks again when it reviews your filing.
A close match shows up. Change a word, not just the ending or the punctuation. "Blue Harbor Marine" stands apart from "Blue Harbor", while "Blue-Harbor" usually does not. The LLC name rules page lists the small changes most states ignore.
The name uses a restricted word. Words such as bank, insurance or university can need approval from another agency, whatever the search shows.
The state search would not open. State sites go down for maintenance and some change their web addresses. Use the official link the tool shows, or the search link on the state guide, and type the cleaned up name by hand.
Tips for a better search
- Search the most distinctive word on its own as well as the full core name. "Harbor" alone can surface "Harbour Blue LLC", which a strict match would miss.
- Try other spellings that sound the same, such as "Harbour" and "Harbor", or a number written as a word.
- If the state lets you choose "contains" or "starts with", run both.
- Note the entity number of any close match, in case you want to look at its record later.
Next steps
If the name looks free and you are ready, form the LLC. The "Start your LLC" box walks you through the details the filing needs. If you need time first, a name reservation can hold the name. For the full method, including how to check other states, read how to check LLC name availability.
Using a trade name instead? See how to file a DBA.