New Mexico LLC Name Search & Lookup (Guide)

Starting an LLC in New Mexico is an exciting journey, but you must ensure your business name is unique and not already registered in the state.
A New Mexico LLC name search can help you verify if your desired name is available and comply with state regulations. This step is crucial to avoid potential legal issues later on.
This blog article covers everything from naming requirements to searching and reserving your desired LLC name in New Mexico.
Should You Conduct a New Mexico Entity Search or an LLC Lookup?
Conducting a New Mexico entity search or an LLC lookup is crucial when starting a business.
Here are key reasons why you should perform these searches:
- Check Name Availability: You want to ensure your chosen business name is unique. If another business already uses your desired name, your registration may get rejected. This applies to LLCs as well as sole proprietorships.
- Verify Compliance: Each business type, including general partnerships and limited liability partnerships, must follow specific naming rules. An entity search helps confirm that your name meets New Mexico’s state guidelines.
- Understand Business Status: You should know the legal status of existing businesses. An entity search provides details about ownership and compliance, which can help you avoid issues.
- Protection of Rights: If you plan to trademark your business name, conducting a New Mexico LLC name search search gives you insight into similar names. This can save you from potential legal disputes in the future.
- Choose the Right Structure: A proper search helps you understand the differences between various business structures. You can compare LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietorships to see which fits your goals best.
New Mexico LLC Name Search (step-by-step)
Conducting a name search is an important first step when starting your LLC in New Mexico. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the steps.
Step 1: Visit the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website
Start by visiting the official website of the New Mexico Secretary of State at sos.nm.gov. This site hosts the business services and tools you will need.
Step 2: Navigate to “Business Services” and click “Online Business Services”

Once on the website, move your cursor to the “Business Services” option and click “Online Business Services.” This area contains various resources, including information on how to form an LLC and conduct business searches.
Step 3: Click on the “Access the Online Business Portal” button

In the “Online Business Services” section, find and click on the option labeled “Access the Online Business Portal.” This will direct you to the state’s online business portal.
Step 4: Navigate to “Business Search”

Look for and click on the “Business Search” option on New Mexico’s online business portal to access the state’s business search tool.
Step 5: Enter the desired LLC name in the search field

The “Business Search” allows you to search by entity name or business ID. You can search for any business entity by its registration or reservation number. Another option is to search by officers/directors/registered agents.
If you want to perform a New Mexico LLC name search, the search field you need is one labeled “Entity Name/DBA Name.” Enter the name you wish to check there.
You must select how you want to search for the name. Options usually include “Starts With,” “Exact Match,” or “Contains.” Choosing the right criterion is crucial as it affects the search results.
After entering your desired name and selecting the search criteria, locate and click the “Search” button.
Step 6: Review the search results for name availability

If the search results pop a “No data found” alert message, your desired LLC name may be available for use in New Mexico.

However, if you see a list of names that match your criteria, it means your selected LLC name is already in use by another business and unavailable for registration.
You can use New Mexico’s Business Search for an LLC lookup. This search provides crucial business information like:
- Entity Name
- DBA Name
- Business ID
- Entity Type
- State of Incorporation
- Sovereign
- Status
- Date of Expiration
Clicking on the blue entity name will take you to a detailed profile page. Here’s the extra information you can find here:
- Formation Dates
- Reporting Information
- Period of Duration
- Business Purpose
- Character Of Affairs
- Contact Information
- Registered Agent Information
- Director Information
- Officer Information
- Manager Information
- Member Information
- Organizer Information
- Incorporator Information
- Trustee Information
- Filing History
- License History
- Entity Name History
If your desired name is not taken, you can proceed with registration. If your chosen name is already in use, revise your name or think of alternatives. Make a list of potential names and repeat the search.
Important LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in New Mexico
Selecting a compliant, unique name for your LLC in New Mexico is a crucial first step in establishing your business identity.
Here are the key naming guidelines and requirements to consider:
1. Mandatory Use of LLC Designators
New Mexico requires all LLC names to include a designator that identifies the business as a Limited Liability Company.
Permitted designators include:
- “Limited Liability Company”
- “LLC”
- “L.L.C.”
This designation clarifies your business structure to the public and distinguishes it from other entity types like corporations or partnerships.
Ensure that your chosen name incorporates one of these designators exactly as listed to meet New Mexico’s compliance standards.
2. Ensure Name Uniqueness
Your LLC name must be distinct from other names on record with the New Mexico Secretary of State. This rule prevents confusion and ensures that your business has a unique identity.
To verify that your chosen name is available, conduct a name search through the New Mexico Secretary of State’s business search tool.
A name slightly similar to an existing business (e.g., the same words with different spellings) may not meet the distinctiveness requirement.
3. Restricted and Prohibited Words
Some words are restricted or prohibited in LLC names to avoid misleading the public or implying unauthorized services. Using certain terms may require additional permissions or compliance with state regulations.
Here are the key categories:
- Financial Terms: Words like “Bank,” “Trust,” “Credit Union,” and “Mortgage” suggest the business provides financial or banking services, which are regulated fields.
- Insurance Terms: Words such as “Insurance,” “Assurance,” or “Underwriter” are typically restricted to prevent public confusion about authorized insurance providers.
- Educational Terms: Terms like “University,” “College,” “Institute,” and “Academy” are regulated to ensure that only accredited institutions use them.
4. Prohibition on Governmental Terms
New Mexico restricts the use of terms that imply affiliation with government entities or agencies.
Terms like “Federal,” “State Department,” “Treasury,” and “National” are generally prohibited unless the business can demonstrate a legitimate government affiliation or approval.
This restriction ensures that your LLC name does not suggest an unauthorized connection with government operations, which could confuse or mislead the public.
5. Professional Titles and Licensed Terms
If your LLC name includes titles or terms associated with licensed professions (such as “Doctor,” “Engineer,” “Attorney,” or “Architect”), you may need to provide proof of professional licensure for your business or members.
New Mexico requires that professional designations be reserved for individuals or entities properly certified or licensed in the relevant field.
This rule ensures that the public has confidence in the qualifications and integrity of professionals operating in the state.
6. Avoidance of Obscene or Offensive Language
New Mexico prohibits any language in LLC names that could be deemed offensive, obscene, or vulgar.
This standard maintains a level of public professionalism and decency in business operations, protecting the public from inappropriate or controversial business names.
7. Optional Name Reservation
If you have chosen an LLC name but are not yet ready to complete your LLC formation, New Mexico allows you to reserve the name for up to 120 days.
This option is helpful if you’re still preparing documents or finalizing details and want to ensure that no one else claims your name during that period.
To reserve an LLC name in New Mexico:
- Complete a name reservation form available on the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website.
- Submit the form along with the $20 filing fee.
What Words are not allowed in my New Mexico LLC name?
Here are the list of words not allowed when naming your LLC in New Mexico:
- Federal Terms: Words such as “FBI,” “Secret Service,” “Treasury,” and “Federal” are prohibited as they imply a false association with federal government agencies.
- State Terms: Terms like “State Department,” “New Mexico,” or “National” may also be restricted to prevent the impression of state or national endorsement.
- Banking and Financial Terms: Words like “Bank,” “Trust,” “Credit Union,” and “Banking” are prohibited unless you have appropriate licensing and regulatory approval, as they imply regulated financial services.
- Insurance-Related Terms: Words like “Insurance,” “Assurance,” “Reinsurance,” and “Underwriter” suggest the business provides insurance services, which require state licensing from the New Mexico Insurance Department.
- Educational Terms: Terms such as “University,” “College,” “Academy,” and “Institute” are restricted to protect the legitimacy of educational institutions. They typically require additional approval or proof of accreditation.
- Professional Titles: Titles like “Doctor,” “Attorney,” “Lawyer,” “Engineer,” “Architect,” or “CPA” (Certified Public Accountant) are reserved for licensed professionals. Using these terms generally requires proof of proper licensing.
- Obscene or Offensive Language: Any words that are vulgar, obscene, or offensive are strictly prohibited in New Mexico LLC names to uphold public decency and professionalism.
- Deceptive or Misleading Terms: Any terms that misrepresent the nature of your business or create a false impression, such as “Government,” “Non-Profit,” or “Charity,” are not allowed unless the LLC meets specific legal criteria.
How do I File a New Mexico LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)
Reserving your LLC name in Oregon is straightforward and helps you secure your desired business name while you complete the full registration process.
Follow these steps:
1. Choose a Unique Name that Meets Oregon’s Naming Requirements
Your name must include “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
Ensure it is distinguishable from other names registered with the Oregon Secretary of State by conducting a preliminary search on the Secretary of State’s website.
2. Complete the Name Reservation Form
Download the “Application for Name Reservation” form from the Oregon Secretary of State’s website. Fill in required information, including the applicant’s full name, mailing address, and desired LLC name.
3. Submit the Form and Pay the Filing Fee
Submit the completed form along with a $20 filing fee. This can be done by mail or in person at the Oregon Secretary of State’s Corporation Division office located at:
Business Services Division
325 Don Gaspar, Suite 300
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501.
Make checks payable to the Oregon Secretary of State’s Corporation Division.
4. Reservation Period
Once approved, your name reservation is valid for 120 days. This ensures your chosen LLC name remains available while you complete the remaining LLC formation steps.
Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations
When forming a business in New Mexico, several aspects influence your choices, including doing business under a different name, checking domain availability, and protecting your brand.
Here’s what you need to know.
Filing for Doing Business As (DBA) in New Mexico
In New Mexico, a DBA (Doing Business As) registration is not legally required to conduct business under a different name than your legal business name.
However, there are several reasons why you might choose to register a DBA:
- Clarity for customers: Using a DBA can help customers easily identify your business and the products or services you offer.
- Compliance with other regulations: Some industries may require a DBA registration as part of their licensing or permitting process.
- Consistency in branding: Registering a DBA ensures that no other business can operate under the same name in New Mexico, maintaining the uniqueness of your brand.
While not legally mandatory, registering a DBA in New Mexico can provide benefits for your business, such as added credibility and brand protection.
Note that sole proprietorships and general partnerships are the most common business structures that use DBAs in New Mexico, as other business entities (like LLCs and corporations) typically register their business name when forming their entity with the state.
Check Domain Name Availability
In today’s digital world, securing a web domain that matches your business name is essential. Before finalizing your LLC name, check domain name availability. A matching domain helps with branding and customer recognition.
You can use various online tools to search for available domains. If your preferred name is taken, consider variations that are still relevant to your business.
Keeping your domain name simple and memorable is vital. It’s often best to opt for a .com extension, as it is the most recognized. Register your domain as soon as you find an available one to avoid losing it to someone else.
Trade Names and Trademark Search
Once you have your business name, consider conducting a trademark search. This ensures that your name doesn’t infringe on any existing trademarks, which could lead to legal conflicts in the future.
Start by searching the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database. This will help you identify if your name or a similar one is already protected.
If your name is unique, consider filing for a trademark. This gives you exclusive rights to your business name and can prevent others from using it within your industry.
Final Thoughts – Is it Worth it to Search and Reserve My Business in New Mexico?
Conducting a name search and reserving your business name in New Mexico is a prudent step for your LLC.
A thorough name search ensures your chosen name is unique and compliant with state regulations, helping you avoid legal disputes or rebranding costs later on. By confirming that your name isn’t already in use, you establish a distinct identity in the marketplace.
Reserving your business name for up to 120 days gives you the security to finalize your LLC formation without the risk of someone else claiming your desired name.
Although there is a $20 reservation fee, this investment can save you time, money, and stress by securing your brand identity from the start.
Related posts on New Mexico LLC:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important LLC naming guidelines in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, your LLC name must include “Limited Liability Company” or abbreviations like “LLC” or “L.L.C.” Avoid names that are too similar to existing businesses. The name cannot include terms that mislead the public, such as “bank” or “insurance,” unless authorized.
Do I need a name reservation in New Mexico?
You do not have to reserve a name before registering your LLC in New Mexico. However, if you want to ensure your desired name is available before filing, a reservation can be beneficial.
How much does it cost to reserve your LLC name in New Mexico?
The cost to reserve an LLC name in New Mexico is $20. You can submit the reservation application either online or by mail.
How long does a New Mexico LLC Name Reservation last?
A name reservation in New Mexico lasts for 120 days. If you need more time, you can apply for a new reservation before the current one expires.
How can I check if an LLC name is already taken in New Mexico?
You can check if an LLC name is available by using the New Mexico Secretary of State’s business entity search tool. This online resource allows you to search registered business names in the state.
What is the process for searching for a business entity in New Mexico?
To search for a business entity in New Mexico, visit the Secretary of State’s website. Enter the business name in the search box and review the results for availability and details of existing entities.
Where can I find the LLC registration forms for New Mexico?
LLC registration forms can be found on the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website. Look for the “Business Services” section for downloadable forms and instructions.
How do I contact the New Mexico Secretary of State for business inquiries?
You can contact the New Mexico Secretary of State by calling 505-827-3600. The office is open Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM Mountain Time for business-related questions.
What is required to obtain a Corporation Commission Number in New Mexico?
To obtain a Corporation Commission Number in New Mexico, you generally need to fill out an application and provide basic information about your business. This may include your business name, address, and type of business entity.
How can I perform a UCC search in New Mexico?
To perform a UCC search in New Mexico, you can visit the Secretary of State’s website. There, you will find a UCC search tool that allows you to check for existing financing statements and security interests.
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