Alabama LLC Name Search & Entity Lookup (Guide)

Before registering a business in Alabama, you must have a unique name that’s never been used by an existing business in the state.
Knowing how to lookup your LLC name is critical.
An Alabama LLC name search allows you to confirm if your chosen name is available and complies with state regulations.
This guide will walk you through the easy steps to find the perfect name for your business while avoiding potential conflicts.
Should You Conduct an Alabama Name Search or an LLC Lookup?
Conducting a name search is important when forming an LLC in Alabama. This helps you check if your chosen name is available or too similar to an existing business. You want a unique name to avoid legal issues and make your filing process faster.
You can start your search on the Alabama Secretary of State’s website.
Here’s why you should do this:
- Avoid Name Conflicts: You might face challenges if another business uses the same name. Your LLC name should not closely resemble others to keep your brand distinct.
- Follow Naming Guidelines: Alabama requires LLC names to include “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviation “LLC.” Checking the name ensures it complies with these rules.
- Reserve Your Name: If you find a name you like, consider reserving it. This holds the name for a specific period while you prepare your LLC formation documents.
However, if you’re not ready to form your LLC yet, an informal search may help you brainstorm. Remember that a name is not officially yours until you register or reserve it.
In some cases, you might decide to skip the search. You might believe it won’t clash with existing businesses if you have a unique idea or a distinctive name. Still, a quick check can save you time and headaches later on.
Alabama SOS Business Search & LLC Lookup (step-by-step)
Below are detailed steps to guide you through the Alabama LLC name search process:
Step 1: Go to the Alabama Secretary of State Website
Start by visiting the official Alabama Secretary of State website at sos.alabama.gov.
This site is where you’ll access all business-related information, including LLCs.
Step 2: Navigate to “Business Entity Records”

Once you’re on the homepage, locate the “Records” tab in the header menu. From there, select “Records Searches.” In the sub-menu, you’ll see an option for “Business Entity Records“—click on that.
This section will give you access to everything you need related to business records in Alabama.
Step 3: Choose Search Criteria
After selecting “Business Entity Records,” scroll down to the “Business Entity Search Options” section to see the available search methods.

You can refine your search by selecting one of the following options:
- Entity Name: Search using the business’s name.
- Entity Number: Enter the unique number assigned to the business.
- Registered Agent: Look up the business using the name of its registered agent.
- Reservation/Registration ID: Search with the specific reservation or registration ID.
Pick the option that best matches your information. This will help ensure you get the most accurate results when running your search.
Step 4: Enter the Business/Entity Information

In this step, you’ll input the details based on your chosen search criteria.
For instance, if you select “Entity Name,” you’ll be taken to the search page to simply type/select:
- Entity Name
- Type
- Place of Formation
- Principal City
- Status
You can choose enter just the Entity “Name” and leave other parts blank.
Step 5: Review Search Results
If you see a “No matches found” message, after clicking the search button – it likely means the LLC name you want is available for registration and isn’t currently being used by any business in Alabama. This is exactly what you’re looking for if you’re checking for name availability before forming your Alabama LLC.
However, if your search returns results, you’ll see a list of registered businesses in Alabama that match your query.

Each entry will display key details like the Entity ID, Entity Name, City, Type, and Status of the business. These details give you an overview of which entities might already be using the name or something similar.
But that’s not all.
Clicking on either the Entity ID or Entity Name will open a more detailed profile for the business.
The profile page includes deeper insights like:
- The registration date
- Your Alabama Registered agent’s name and address
- Principal Mailing Address
- Place of Formation
- Formation Date
- Nature of Business
- Incorporator Name
And many, many more details.
This is really a great way to get a complete picture of existing LLCs, and it’s especially helpful if you’re doing competitor research or ensuring your chosen name is truly unique.
Critical Alabama LLC Naming Requirements and Guidelines
Here are the critical LLC naming rules and requirements for an Alabama LLC you need to know:
1. Must include proper designation (e.g., “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”)
Your Alabama LLC name must clearly state its business structure. This means including the full phrase “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviations “LLC” or “L.L.C.” For example, if your business name is “Example Business,” it should appear as “Example Business LLC.”
Using this designation helps inform customers and partners about your company’s legal structure and aligns your business with Alabama’s naming regulations.
2. Your Name Must be Unique (distinguishable from other registered entities)
Your chosen name must be unique and distinguishable from existing registered business names in Alabama. This prevents consumer confusion and ensures that your LLC stands apart in the marketplace.
You can use the Alabama Secretary of State’s online database to check for name availability – just as I showed you in the steps above.
Naming distinctions can often be achieved by adding unique words or using different ordering. For instance, “Best Construction LLC” and “Construction Best LLC” are different enough to meet the requirements.
3. Avoid prohibited terms (e.g., “bank,” “insurance,” “trust”)
Certain terms are restricted when naming your LLC. Words like “bank,” “insurance,” and “trust” may require specific approvals or licenses to use.
You should avoid these terms unless your business is licensed to operate in these areas. Using prohibited terms can result in the refusal of your name request.
4. Avoid misleading names
Your LLC name should not mislead the public about your business activities or structure. For example, using a name that suggests affiliation with government agencies or implies a substantial service when it’s not true can lead to legal issues.
5. No use of certain state-related terms (e.g., “Treasury,” “FBI”)
You cannot use certain terms related to state agencies in your LLC name. Terms like “Treasury,” “FBI,” or similar titles imply government affiliation.
Using such names without permission can lead to legal repercussions and a denial of your name application.
6. Check availability through the Alabama Secretary of State’s portal
Before you file for your LLC name, it’s critical to verify availability. You can do this through the Alabama Secretary of State’s business entity search tool.
7. Reserve the name for up to one year if needed
If you find a name you love but aren’t ready to register your LLC, consider reserving it. Alabama allows you to reserve your desired LLC name for up to one year.
To reserve it, submit a request to the Secretary of State along with the appropriate fee. This ensures that no one else can use your chosen name while you prepare your LLC documents.
Prohibited and Restricted Words for Alabama LLC Name
Some words are restricted or prohibited, and using them can lead to your name being rejected.
Prohibited Words:
- Bank/Banking: You cannot use these terms unless your LLC is a licensed bank or financial institution.
- Insurance: This term is off-limits unless your company is an authorized insurance provider.
- University/College: Avoid these words unless your entity is a registered educational institution.
- Attorney/Lawyer: You cannot use these unless your LLC provides legal services and is licensed to practice law.
- Credit Union: This term is restricted to licensed and authorized credit unions.
- Cooperative: Many states restrict the use of this term to specific types of organizations.
- Mutual: Like “insurance,” this word is often restricted to authorized financial institutions.
Potentially Prohibited Words:
Certain words may require additional paperwork or state approval. These include:
- Corporation or Incorporated: If you use these terms, ensure your business is not misleadingly suggesting it is a corporation.
- Trust: This word may be restricted if it implies financial services your LLC does not provide.
- Academy: Using this term might require approval if it implies offering formal education services.
- Clinic/Hospital: These terms might be restricted to licensed healthcare providers.
- Federal/National: Many states prohibit businesses from implying they are government-related unless properly authorized.
- Municipal: This word might suggest affiliation with government entities and is typically prohibited without approval.
- Trustees/Charity: May require additional documentation or state approval if they suggest fiduciary responsibility or charitable activities.
How do I File an Alabama LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)
Filing a name reservation for your Alabama LLC is straightforward. Follow these steps to secure your desired name.
To file an Alabama LLC name reservation, follow these steps:
1. Choose a unique business name that complies with Alabama naming requirements.
The name must include the words “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviation “L.L.C.” or “LLC” and must be distinguishable from other business names on record with the Alabama Secretary of State.
2. Fill out the Name Reservation Request Form for Domestic Entities.
The form requires the following information from the person reserving the name: full name of the applicant, physical address, mailing address, and name of the entity being formed.
3. Submit the form online:
- Go to the Alabama Secretary of State Online Services page and click “Name Reservation Menu,” then “Name Reservation.”
- At the bottom of the page, select “Non-Subscriber Request” and click “Next.”
- Complete the online Name Reservation Request and pay the $28 filing fee.
Once approved, your Alabama LLC name will be reserved for 1 year.
You must file your Certificate of Formation before the reservation expires to officially form your LLC.
Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations (optional)
When starting a business in Alabama, you must be aware of various naming considerations beyond just your LLC name. This includes understanding trade names and trademarks and how to file for a Doing Business As (DBA).
Trade Names and Trademark Search
A trade name is the name under which your business operates. This could be different from your legal business name. If you want to use a trade name, check if it’s already taken. This is where a trademark search comes in. You can search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to find existing trademarks.
Consider changing your name to avoid legal issues if a trademark is found. If the trade name is available, you can register it.
Check Domain Name Availability
In today’s digital age, having an online presence is vital. Before finalizing your business name, check if the domain name is available. Use sites like GoDaddy or Namecheap to search for your desired domain.
Filing for Doing Business As (DBA) in Alabama
If you choose to operate under a trade name, you must file for a DBA in Alabama. This allows you to conduct business using the chosen name legally. You’ll file with the county probate court where your business is located.
Know the Difference Between Name Reservation vs. Registration
Name reservation and name registration are two different concepts.
Name reservation is a temporary hold on a name while you prepare to register your business. In Alabama, you can reserve a name for up to one year for a small fee.
On the other hand, name registration occurs after you officially form your business entity, such as an LLC or corporation. Registering provides legal protection for your business name and ensures no one else can use it in Alabama.
Final Thoughts – Is it Worth it to Search and Reserve My Business in Alabama?
Absolutely! It is worth it taking the time to search and reserve your business name in Alabama as a new business owner. Not only does it ensure that your chosen name is unique, but it also protects your brand from future conflicts. It’s like securing your business’s identity before you even begin.
Here’s why it’s such a valuable move:
Avoiding Conflicts: When you check name availability, you significantly reduce the chances of running into legal issues later on. If another business is already using a name similar to yours, it could cause confusion or even lead to costly disputes. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive.
Entity Number: Once your name is reserved, you receive an entity number. This number is essential for various business operations and helps establish your LLC’s identity in legal matters. Think of it as your business’s official ID card.
Professional Image: Reserving your name shows you’re serious about your business. It’s a simple step that builds trust with customers, partners, and even potential investors. It sets the tone that you’re committed and ready for business.
Legal Advice: If you’re feeling unsure about the process, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. A professional can guide you through forming your LLC, ensuring you’re compliant with state regulations, and helping you avoid any pitfalls along the way.
Cost: Thankfully, reserving your name in Alabama is affordable. You can complete the process online for just around $27—a small investment that can save you a lot of headaches in the future.
Related posts on Alabama LLC:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important LLC naming guidelines in Alabama?
When naming your LLC in Alabama, your name must include “Limited Liability Company” or abbreviations like “LLC” or “L.L.C.” To avoid confusion, your name should not be similar to any existing business names. Certain words, such as “Bank” or “Insurance,” may require special approvals.
How can I determine if my desired LLC name is available in Alabama?
To check if your desired LLC name is available, you need to perform a search on the Alabama Secretary of State’s website. You can search by name, keyword, or partial name.
How do I conduct a business entity search in Alabama?
Start by visiting the Business Entity Search page on the Alabama Secretary of State’s website. You can search using several options, including Entity Name or Entity Number.
Do I need a name reservation in Alabama?
While it is not mandatory, reserving an LLC name can be helpful. A reservation could be a good idea if you want to ensure that your desired name is not taken by someone else before you file your LLC paperwork.
Why do I need to perform a business entity search in Alabama?
Performing a business entity search is important to confirm that your chosen name is unique. It helps you avoid legal issues and ensures that your LLC name does not conflict with existing businesses.
How much does it cost to reserve your LLC name in Alabama?
The fee to reserve your LLC name is typically $28.
How long does an Alabama LLC Name Reservation last?
A name reservation in Alabama lasts for 120 days. If you need more time, you may need to reapply for a new reservation.
How do I find out if a business is registered in Alabama?
You can find out if a business is registered by searching the Alabama Secretary of State’s website. Input the business name or related details to access its registration status.
What are the steps to change the name of an existing LLC in Alabama?
To change the name of an existing LLC, you need to file an amendment with the Alabama Secretary of State. This involves submitting the appropriate forms and paying any applicable fees.
How can I verify if a company is properly licensed in Alabama?
To check if a company is properly licensed, visit the Alabama Secretary of State’s website. You can search for business licenses and registration details that show compliance with state requirements.
Can I use the name of another Alabama entity?
No, you cannot use a name too similar to an existing Alabama entity. It must be distinguishable to prevent confusion in the marketplace.
How do I find out who owns a business in Alabama?
Business ownership information is found through the Alabama Secretary of State’s website. Search for the business entity, and you should see details, including the registered agents and the names of principals.
Do I need a business license in Alabama if I have an LLC?
Yes, having an LLC does not exempt you from needing a business license. Local and state regulations may require obtaining specific licenses to operate legally.
How do I change my Alabama LLC name?
To change your LLC name, file a Certificate of Amendment with the Alabama Secretary of State. This includes submitting the required forms and paying any fees for the name change.
Does my Alabama LLC need a DBA?
If you plan to operate under a name different from your LLC’s legal name, you must register a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name. This is required for brand consistency and legal identification.
How long does it take to set up an LLC in Alabama?
The time to set up an LLC in Alabama can vary. Generally, depending on how you file your documents and whether any issues arise, it may take a few days to a few weeks.
How do I search for and get a Trademark for my business in Alabama?
To search for a Trademark in Alabama, visit the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website. You can check existing trademarks and learn how to apply for your own to protect your business name.
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