If you are forming an LLC or a corporation in Alabama, the first thing you need to do is a business name search. Like all other states, Alabama requires each LLC or corporation registered in the state to have a unique business name. You can do an Alabama business name search on the Alabama Secretary of State website to see if the business name you want to use is available.
Related: Checklist To Start A Business In Alabama
Steps To Do an Alabama Business Name Search
Begin by going to the Alabama Secretary of State website.
If you are lucky and no matches are found, as in this example, you can register the business name.
However, if you were to search for “Mother Trucker,” there is a Limited Liability Company registered under that name. From this search, you can find the Entity ID, Entity Name, City, Type of Entity, and Status. If the status says “Exists,” that means there is a company that is using the name and is in good standing with the Secretary of State. If Status says “Previous Name,” “Merged,” “Withdrawn,” or something else, it may mean the name is open; however, you will have to check with the Business Entity Records department to be sure.
More information about the entity will be shown by clicking on an entry.
Alabama Business Name Search FAQs
How do I find the business name of an Alabama sole proprietorship?
An Alabama sole proprietorship or partnership can use the business owner(s) full first and last name as the business name, but many will want to operate under a specific business name. To register the business name, they will register for an Alabama Trade Name, also known as “Doing Business As,” DBA, Assumed Name, or Fictitious Business Name.
Similar to corporations or LLCs, Trade Name registrations can be searched on the Secretary of State’s website.
What are the naming guidelines for an Alabama LLC?
In addition to being unique, an Alabama LLC name must include a special designator such as Limited Liability Company, LLC, L.L.C., etc., and it may not use restricted words such as bank or insurance unless the entity is licensed to operate as such.
Can an LLC name be reserved in Alabama?
If you want a name but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file the Reservation of a Business Entity Name (Form SCC631) with the Alabama Secretary of State to hold a name for up to 120 days.
