Rhode Island business search
Rhode Island's official business search is Corporate Database Search, run by the Rhode Island Department of State. It's free, and you can search by name, officer, file number, agent or address.
Search Rhode Island recordsHow to check if a name is taken in Rhode Island
- 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 Rhode Island
An LLC's name has to end with one of these: LLC, Limited Liability Company, L.L.C..
Once the name is clear
Rhode Island charges $150 to form an LLC and $230 to form a corporation. See how to start an LLC in Rhode Island, or a Rhode Island DBA if you only need a trade name.
Rhode Island business search questions
Is the Rhode Island business search free?
Yes. The Rhode Island Department of State doesn't charge to search its records.
Does searching reserve a name in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island LLC?
The record shows what Rhode Island 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.