Mississippi LLC Name Search & Lookup (Guide)

Starting an LLC in Mississippi begins with one essential step: ensuring your business name is unique and meets state requirements.
A Mississippi LLC name search helps you confirm your desired name is available, compliant, and ready for use. This process is crucial for establishing a distinct brand and avoiding conflicts with existing businesses.
This guide explains how to conduct a Mississippi LLC name search, reserve your name, and follow state naming rules to set up your LLC.
Should You Conduct a Mississippi Name Search or an LLC Lookup?
When starting a business in Mississippi, a name search is essential. Here’s why you should consider it:
- Name Availability: Conducting a name search helps you check if your desired business name is available. Using the Mississippi Business Entity Search can save you time. You’ll want to avoid using a name that is already taken.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring your name complies with state rules is critical. Mississippi has specific naming requirements for LLCs. This includes avoiding prohibited words that might mislead the public.
- Trademark Concerns: A name might be available in state records but still be trademarked. You can conduct a Mississippi Trademark Search to ensure no potential legal issues.
- Future Planning: If you plan to expand your business, choose a unique name. This helps you stand out and protects your brand from future conflicts.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your business name is unique allows you to focus on other aspects of your startup. It reduces the risk of potential legal challenges later.
Mississippi LLC Name Search (step-by-step)
Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you navigate the name search process when starting your Mississippi LLC.
Step 1: Visit the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website
Start by visiting the official Mississippi Secretary of State’s website at sos.ms.gov. This site is your primary resource for business entity searches.
Step 2: Navigate to the “Business Services & Regulation” section

Once on the homepage, find the “Business Services & Regulation” section. This section assists business owners and includes various tools for forming and managing entities.
Step 3: Click on “Search Businesses”

In the “Business Services & Regulation” section, look for the option labeled “Search for a Businesses Entity.” This feature allows you to search for existing business names in Mississippi.
Clicking on this link will take you to the necessary search tool to check your LLC’s name availability.
Step 4: Enter the desired LLC name in the search field

You will see a search field where you can enter your desired LLC name. Type in the name you want to check, ensuring you spell it correctly.
Once you’ve entered the name, you need to set the search criteria. Options include “Starting With,” “All Words,” “Any Words,” “Sounds Like,” or “Exact Match.” Select the option that best fits your search goals for a more effective lookup.
If you perform an LLC lookup in Mississippi but want to search by other categories, you can search by Business ID, Officer Name, and Registered Agent.
After entering the LLC name and selecting your search criteria, click the “Search” button. This action triggers the database to look for businesses matching your input.
Step 5: Review the search results for name availability

The search results will show you all businesses that match your criteria. If the search result returns “No Matches Found,” your desired LLC name may be available for registration in Mississippi.

If your desired LLC name appears in the results, someone else is using it, meaning the name is unavailable for registration. You get information on the Business Name, Business ID, Type, Status, and Creation Date.
Click on the “Details” button to get more information about the business such as:
- State of Incorporation
- Principal Office Address
- Registered Agent Name
- Registered Agent Address
- Officers & Directors
Critical LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in Mississippi
When naming your LLC in Mississippi, you must follow specific guidelines.
1. Required Terms
Mississippi law requires your LLC name to include the phrase “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation such as “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
This designates your business as a limited liability company and differentiates it from other business types, such as corporations or partnerships.
2. Distinguishability
Your chosen LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other registered businesses in Mississippi. The name must differ significantly from existing business names in both appearance and pronunciation to avoid confusion.
Factors like spacing, punctuation, and certain generic words (e.g., “the” or “company”) generally don’t make a name distinct.
3. Prohibited Words
Certain words are restricted or require additional approval to use in your LLC name. For example:
- Financial Terms: Words like “bank,” “trust,” “insurance,” or “credit union” are typically restricted for use by licensed financial or insurance institutions.
- Government-Related Words: Terms like “federal,” “state,” or “Mississippi” are often restricted, as they may imply an affiliation with government agencies.
- Professional Terms: Terms like “engineer,” “attorney,” or “doctor” may be restricted unless the LLC employs licensed professionals. Approval from the relevant licensing board may be necessary to use these words legally.
4. Including Member Names
Mississippi allows LLCs to include the names of members or managers within the business name. This option can add a personal touch to your brand and may help clients identify the business with specific individuals.
For example, a name like “Smith & Green LLC” can highlight the founders or key partners involved in the business.
5. Avoiding Identifiers During the Search
When conducting a name availability search, omit LLC-related identifiers like “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company.” Instead, search using only the main part of your desired name.
This strategy helps you identify similar names that could potentially conflict with your chosen name, ensuring better accuracy in finding available options.
6. Reserving Your LLC Name
If you aren’t ready to register your LLC but want to secure your chosen name, Mississippi allows you to reserve your LLC name for up to 180 days.
This reservation period protects your name from being taken by other businesses while you prepare for full registration.
What Words are not allowed in my Mississippi LLC name?
Certain words are not allowed when choosing a name for your Mississippi LLC. Here’s a list of common restricted words:
- Bank: Reserved for licensed financial institutions. Unauthorized use could imply that your LLC is a regulated bank, which requires specific charters and regulations.
- Insurance: This term is restricted to licensed insurance companies to avoid misleading the public. Only companies registered with the Mississippi Insurance Department can use this term.
- Trust: Typically allowed only for registered trusts or trust companies. The use of “trust” implies fiduciary responsibility, which requires appropriate licensing.
- University, College, or School: Restricted due to their association with accredited academic institutions. These terms may require approval from educational licensing bodies to ensure the legitimacy of the educational entity.
- Attorney, Lawyer, or Law Firm: These terms are reserved for businesses with licensed legal professionals. Including them without proper credentials can mislead the public regarding the qualifications of your LLC.
- Engineer: In most states, including Mississippi, using “engineer” requires appropriate licensure due to its association with licensed engineering professionals. Approval from relevant state boards may be required.
- Federal, Government, or State: Restricted to avoid the implication of a governmental affiliation. Terms like these require special authorization to ensure they’re not used misleadingly.
- Medical, Healthcare, or Physician: These terms are typically reserved for businesses providing licensed healthcare services. They may require proof of professional licensing from state health boards.
- Cooperative, Coop, or Co-Op: Reserved for registered cooperative organizations in Mississippi. LLCs generally can’t use these terms without special designation.
How do I File a Mississippi LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)
Filing a name reservation for your Mississippi LLC involves several clear steps.
1. Choose a Unique Name Complying with Mississippi’s Naming Requirements
Your LLC name must include “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation such as “LLC” or “L.L.C.” Additionally, it must be unique and distinguishable from other registered business names in Mississippi to prevent conflicts.
Use the Mississippi Business Entity Search to confirm your name is available and compliant with state standards.
2. Complete the Name Reservation Application
Visit the Mississippi Secretary of State’s online filing portal to download the “Application for Reservation of Name” form. You have to register and log in to use the portal.
Complete the form with key details, including the applicant’s full name, mailing address, and your desired LLC name.
3. Submit the Application and Pay the Reservation Fee
Mississippi requires all filings to be done electronically. Submit your completed application through the Mississippi Secretary of State’s online filing portal. The filing fee is $25, payable online by credit or debit card.
4. Duration of Reservation
Once the application is approved, your LLC name will be reserved for up to 180 days. This period provides ample time to finalize your LLC setup without the risk of another business taking your preferred name.
Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations
When starting a business, it’s important to consider not just your LLC name but other factors that can affect your brand and legal standing.
Here are the other naming considerations:
Trademark Search and Protection
Before you settle on a business name, conduct a trademark search. This step helps you avoid legal issues down the road.
You can search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s database to see if your desired name or something similar is already registered.
If you find a name that’s not taken, consider registering it as a trademark. This gives you exclusive rights to use that name for your products or services. Protecting your name can prevent others from using it, helping to maintain your brand’s integrity.
Check Domain Name Availability
In today’s digital world, having an online presence is crucial. Make sure to check if your desired domain name is available. Consistency between your business name and domain name can strengthen your brand identity.
Use domain registration sites to explore options. If your exact name isn’t available, consider slight variations.
Ensure the new domain remains relevant to your business. A matching name can help customers easily find you online.
Fictitious Names and DBAs in Mississippi
In Mississippi, you can operate under a fictitious name or DBA (Doing Business As) if you want to use a name different from your LLC. This allows flexibility in branding, especially if you plan to offer various services or products.
To register a DBA, file the necessary paperwork with the county circuit clerk or Secretary of State.
After your DBA is approved, you can use it to conduct business officially. Remember, registering a DBA doesn’t provide trademark protection, so consider this when choosing your name.
Final Thoughts – Is it Worth it to Search and Reserve My Business in Mississippi?
Yes, conducting an LLC name search and reservation in Mississippi is worthwhile. This process ensures that your chosen name is unique and available.
By performing a thorough Mississippi LLC name search, you can protect your brand identity and prevent others from using a similar name, which could lead to confusion among customers and damage your reputation.
Reserving your LLC name in Mississippi protects the name for 180 days, ensuring you have time to finalize registration without risking losing the name.
Though it involves some cost and effort, the benefits of brand protection, legal security, and a smoother startup process make it a smart move for entrepreneurs planning to establish an LLC in Mississippi.
Related posts on Mississippi LLC:
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if a business name is already in use in Mississippi?
You can check if a business name is in use by visiting the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website. They provide a free business entity search tool. You will need to enter your desired name to see if it is already registered.
What is the process for conducting an LLC name search through the Mississippi Secretary of State?
To conduct an LLC name search, go to the Mississippi Secretary of State’s business entity search page. Enter your chosen name and review the results to see if the name is available or if similar names already exist.
Are there any specific naming requirements for LLCs in Mississippi?
Yes, LLC names in Mississippi must include “Limited Liability Company” or abbreviations like “LLC” or “L.L.C.” The name must be unique and not too similar to any existing business names registered in the state.
How do I reserve a business name in Mississippi before forming an LLC?
To reserve a business name, you need to fill out a name reservation form available on the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website. A reservation lasts for a period of 180 days and involves a small fee.
What steps should be taken if a desired LLC name is already taken in Mississippi?
If your desired name is already taken, you can modify it by adding additional words or using variations. Ensure your new name is still unique and complies with state naming requirements.
Can an existing Mississippi LLC name be changed, and what is the procedure?
Yes, you can change the name of an existing LLC in Mississippi. To do this, you must file an amendment with the Mississippi Secretary of State and pay the required fee.
What are the most important LLC naming guidelines in Mississippi?
Key guidelines include using “Limited Liability Company” or its abbreviations, ensuring uniqueness, and avoiding names that could be confused with government entities or established businesses.
Do I need a name reservation in Mississippi?
A name reservation is not mandatory but is recommended if you want to secure your LLC name for future use. It prevents others from using the name while you prepare your formation documents.
Why do I need to perform a business entity search in Mississippi?
Performing a business entity search helps ensure your desired LLC name is available. This step is crucial to avoid legal issues and potential rebranding later on.
How much does it cost to reserve your LLC name in Mississippi?
The fee to reserve a business name in Mississippi is typically $25. This fee may change, so checking the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website for the latest information is wise.
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