California business search
California's official business search is bizfile Online Business Search, run by the California Secretary of State. It's free, and you can search by name or file number.
Search California recordsHow to check if a name is taken in California
- Type the main words of the name into the search. Leave off endings like LLC or Inc.
- Look for exact matches and close ones. States usually refuse a name that only differs by punctuation, spacing or the ending.
- If nothing close comes up, run a free trademark search. A state accepting your name doesn't give you the right to use it as a brand.
LLC name endings in California
An LLC's name has to end with one of these: LLC, L.L.C., Limited Liability Co., Limited Liability Company.
Once the name is clear
California charges $70 to form an LLC and $100 to form a corporation. See how to start an LLC in California, or a California DBA if you only need a trade name.
California business search questions
Is the California business search free?
Yes. The California Secretary of State doesn't charge to search its records.
Does searching reserve a name in California?
No. A search only shows what's on record today. The name is yours once your filing is accepted, and most states also let you pay to hold a name for a set time.
Can I see who owns a California LLC?
The record shows what California requires a company to file, which is often its registered agent and sometimes its managers or members. Many states don't list owners at all.