If you are forming an LLC or a corporation in Arkansas, you first need a business name search. Like all other states, Arkansas requires each LLC or corporation registered in the state to have a unique business name. You can do an Arkansas business name search on the Arkansas Secretary of State website to see if the business name you want to use is available.
Related: Checklist To Start A Business In Arkansas
Steps To Do an Arkansas Business Name Search
Step 1: Visit the Arkansas Entity Name Database
Visit the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website and enter the name you would like to use in the “Name” field. In this example, we will do an Arkansas LLC search by looking up “A Clean Cut Lawn Care.” After entering the company name, click “Search.”
Step 2: Search for a Business Name
When we search “A Clean Cut Lawn Care,” we see that one record is in “Good Standing.” “Good Standing” means someone is using that name, and an LLC can’t be registered using this name.
If the record comes back as “Revoked,” the name was previously registered, but the entity is no longer in operation. If the name you want appears as “Revoked,” it may be available to register.
Step 3: Review Results
Clicking on the link for “A Clean Cut Lawn Care LLC” gives us more information about the business.
While the name “A Clean Cut Lawn Care” may not be available by itself, variants such as “Clean Cut Lawn Guys” or “Clean Team Lawn Care” are available. Searching for those business names returns a result that says, “There were no records found.” While final approval is still with the Secretary of State, it is likely available to register.
Something to keep in mind is that even though each Corporation and LLC name must be unique, it may not stop someone else from using that name since business names for a sole proprietorship or partnership are not registered by the Secretary of State and are not required to be unique. To protect your business name, consider getting a trademark.
Arkansas Business Name Search FAQs
How do I find the business name of an Arkansas sole proprietorship?
An Arkansas sole proprietorship or general partnership can use the small business owner(s) full first and last name as the business entity name, but many will want to operate under a specific business name. Unlike corporations and LLCs in Arkansas, the names of sole proprietorships and partnerships are not listed on the state database. Instead, they are registered with the County Clerk’s office in the county where the business is located.
To register the business name, they will register for an Arkansas Fictitious Name, which is also known as “Doing Business As,” DBA, or Fictitious Business Name with the County Clerk.
Can an Arkansas LLC name be reserved?
If you have a name in mind but aren’t ready to officially form your Arkansas LLC, you can reserve your name for up to 120 days by filing a Name Reservation form with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
