Missouri LLC Name Search & Lookup (Guide)

Choosing the right name is crucial when establishing your Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Missouri. You must verify that your business name is not already in use or too similar to an existing one.

A Missouri LLC name search ensures your desired name is available and legally compliant. This process helps you avoid potential legal conflicts and ensures your name stands out in a competitive market.

This guide walks you through the steps of conducting a name search, reserving your LLC name, and navigating state regulations for a smooth LLC formation.

Should You Conduct a Missouri Entity Search or an LLC Lookup?

Here’s why you should conduct a Missouri LLC name search or an LLC Lookup:

• Name Availability: You want to ensure your desired business name is not already taken. The Missouri Secretary of State offers a search tool where you can verify if the name you want is available.
• Avoid Legal Issues: By using the online database, you can check for existing businesses with similar names. This helps you avoid potential legal conflicts.
• Understand Business Structure: Knowing whether an entity is an LLC, corporation, or other form can guide your decisions. The search results will give you a clear picture of the business landscape.
• Registered Agents: When you conduct a search, you can find details about registered agents for existing businesses. This information could be useful if you plan to work with other companies.
• Verify Compliance: If you already have a business, checking the entity status ensures you are compliant with Missouri state regulations. This protects you from fines or penalties.

Missouri LLC Name Search (step-by-step)

Searching for an LLC name in Missouri requires a clear step-by-step process.

Step 1: Visit the Missouri Secretary of State’s website

Start by opening your web browser and navigating to the Missouri Secretary of State’s official website at sos.mo.gov.

You’ll find resources related to business services, filing applications, and searching for existing business names.

Step 2: Navigate to the “Business Services” section and click on “Business Search”

Once on the homepage, look for the “Business Services” section. After locating the “Business Services” section, find and click on the link for “Business Search.” This tool is specifically designed for checking the availability of LLC names in Missouri.

Step 3: Enter the desired LLC name in the search field

In this step, you will see a search field where you can enter the name you wish to use for your desired LLC name. You can search by other variations including business name, registered agent, and charter number.

Once you have entered your desired LLC name, click the “Search” button. This action will initiate the search process within the state’s database.

Step 4: Review the search results for name availability

After performing the search, you’ll receive a list of results matching your query. If you see a “No records to display” message, it indicates that your desired LLC name might be available.

If the search returns results, your desired name is unavailable. The page will display details about the business entity, including the Business Name, Charter Number, Type, Status, Creation Date, and Registered Agent Name.

Clicking on the blue “Business Name” link in the result section takes you to a detailed page containing the following:

• Principal Office Address
• Domesticity
• Registered Agent
• Home State
• Date Formed
• Duration
• Report Due
• Filings

If your preferred name is available, you can move forward with the registration process. This typically involves filling out forms and providing additional information about your LLC.

Important LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in Missouri

When naming your LLC in Missouri, it’s crucial to follow state guidelines to ensure your name is compliant, unique, and accurately reflects your business structure. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

1. Name Requirement

Your LLC name must include the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” This is essential for distinguishing your business as an LLC and ensuring it complies with Missouri’s naming conventions.

2. Uniqueness

The name you choose must be unique and not conflict with any existing business names in Missouri. It cannot be the same as, or too similar to, another registered business name.

To check name availability, use the Missouri Business Entity Search to confirm that your desired name is not already in use.

3. Restricted Words

Avoid using words that could confuse your LLC with government agencies or imply that your business has official status.

Terms like “FBI,” “Treasury,” or other government-related words are prohibited. Using such words may require additional documentation or approval from relevant authorities.

4. No Misleading Names

Your LLC name cannot imply activities your business is not involved in. For example, if your business is not a law firm, using terms like “attorney” or “law” could be misleading.

Ensure that the name clearly and accurately represents the services or products your business offers.

5. Reserve Your Name

If you’re not ready to formally register your LLC but want to secure a specific name, Missouri allows you to reserve your name for up to 60 days.

You can conduct this process by submitting a name reservation application to the Missouri Secretary of State. This step helps ensure no one else registers your chosen name during that period.

6. Name Changes

If you decide to change your LLC’s name after registration, you’ll need to file an amendment with the Secretary of State. This process includes completing the necessary forms and paying the applicable fees.

Note that changing your LLC name may require updates to your business documents, contracts, and marketing materials.

What Words are not allowed in my Missouri LLC name?

When naming your Missouri LLC, certain words are restricted or require special permissions. Here’s a breakdown:

Prohibited Terms

• Bank: Reserved for chartered banks only. If your LLC isn’t an official financial institution, avoid “bank” or similar terms.
• Insurance: Only licensed insurance companies can use “insurance” in their names. This term is prohibited to prevent misleading consumers.
• Trust: Restricted to registered trust entities. Using “trust” without this designation is not allowed.
• University: Requires specific state permission, as it implies academic authority. Approval is generally needed from educational authorities.
• Corporation, Incorporated, Corp, Inc: These terms are reserved for corporations and cannot be used by LLCs, as they imply a different business structure.

Terms Requiring Special Approval or Licensing

• Health, Healthcare, or Medical: If your LLC provides medical or healthcare services, you may need licensing or approval to use these terms.
• Attorney, Lawyer, or Legal: Restricted to LLCs employing licensed attorneys or meeting legal practice requirements, as these terms imply qualified legal services.
• Academy or Institute: Often associated with educational or training services. Additional permissions may be required depending on the nature of your business.

How do I File a Missouri LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)

To reserve a name for your LLC in Missouri, you will need to follow specific steps. Here are the steps to file a name reservation successfully.

1. Choose a Unique Name Complying with Missouri’s Naming Requirements

Your chosen LLC name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” It must be distinct from any existing business names registered with the Missouri Secretary of State.

Use the Missouri Business Entity Search to confirm your name’s availability and avoid any conflicts.

2. Complete the Name Reservation Application

Download the “Application for Reservation of Name” form from the Missouri Secretary of State website and fill it out with required details, such as the applicant’s full name, mailing address, and the desired LLC name.

3. Submit the Application and Pay the Reservation Fee

Send the completed form along with the $25 reservation fee to the Missouri Secretary of State, Corporations Division, PO Box 778 / 600 W. Main St., Rm. 322, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

You can submit the form in person. Ensure your payment is made payable to the Missouri Secretary of State.

4. Duration of Reservation

Once approved, your LLC name will be reserved for 60 days. This period allows you to secure your chosen name while you finalize other aspects of your LLC formation.

If you need more time, you may apply for an additional 60-day reservation by submitting a new application and paying the reservation fee again.

Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations

When starting a business in Missouri, consider various naming options and registrations beyond just naming your LLC. This includes filing for a DBA, checking domain name availability, and conducting trademark searches.

Filing for Doing Business As (DBA) in Missouri

If you plan to operate your business under a name different from your LLC’s legal name, you must file for a Doing Business As (DBA) registration. This allows you to use a trade name without forming a new entity.

To register a DBA, follow these steps:

• Choose a Name: Make sure the name is unique and not similar to existing businesses.
• Fill Out the Application: This can usually be done online or in person at your local county clerk’s office.
• Pay the Fee: There is typically a small fee for filing your DBA.

Registering a DBA helps establish a brand identity and provides legal recognition for the name you are using.

Check Domain Name Availability

In today’s digital age, securing a domain name that matches your business name is crucial. A good domain name helps customers find your business online.

Before finalizing your LLC name, check if the domain is available. You can do this through various domain registration websites.

• Use Domain Name Generators: If your preferred domain is taken, consider using a domain name generator to find alternatives.
• Opt for Unique Extensions: Don’t limit yourself to ‘.com’. Explore options like ‘.net’ or ‘.biz’ to find something suitable.

Ensuring your domain matches your business name strengthens your online presence.

Trade Names and Trademark Search

Conducting a trademark search is essential to protect your brand. A trademark helps safeguard your business name, logo, or slogan from being used by others.

To perform a trademark search:

• Utilize the USPTO Database: Search the United States Patent and Trademark Office for existing trademarks.
• Search State Registries: Check Missouri’s records for state-specific trademarks.
• Consider Hiring a Professional: If you’re unsure, an attorney specializing in trademark law can assist in navigating this process.

Proper trademark research helps avoid legal conflicts later on, allowing you to promote your brand confidently.

Final Thoughts – Is it Worth it to Search and Reserve My Business in Missouri?

Conducting a business name search and reserving your LLC name in Missouri can be a valuable step if you’re not ready to fully register your LLC but want to secure a specific name.

The name search helps you avoid conflicts, ensuring your desired name is unique and compliant with state regulations.

Reserving the name gives you peace of mind, protecting it for 60 days while you finalize your LLC setup. This reservation can also prevent costly changes to branding, like logos or websites, should you find out later that your name is unavailable.

At a cost of only $25, this option secures your business identity and protect your name in Missouri while you complete your formation process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for verifying an LLC in Missouri?

To verify an LLC in Missouri, you can use the business entity search tool on the Missouri Secretary of State’s website. You can contact their office directly for assistance.

What are the fees associated with forming an LLC in Missouri?

The filing fee for forming an LLC in Missouri is $50. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or specific services, such as name reservations or certified copies.

How can I find information about the ownership of a Missouri company?

You can look up ownership information by accessing the business entity search on the Missouri Secretary of State’s website. This tool provides details about registered companies, including their owners and registered agents.

Where can I conduct an online LLC name search for a Missouri business?

You can conduct an online LLC name search on the Missouri Secretary of State’s official website. This resource allows you to search for business names and see if they are available.

What contact information is available for the Missouri Secretary of State’s office for LLC searches?

For queries about LLC searches, you can contact the Missouri Secretary of State’s office by telephone at 573-751-4153 or by email at corporations@sos.mo.gov. They can assist with name availability and other LLC-related questions.