Oklahoma LLC Name Search & Lookup (Guide)

An Oklahoma LLC Name Search helps you verify that your desired name is available and compliant with the state’s rules for LLC names.

This essential guide walks you through each step of the process, from checking the availability of your LLC name to reserving it, so you can confidently secure your business identity and move forward with your LLC formation.

Should You Conduct an Oklahoma Entity Search or an LLC Lookup?

Conducting an Oklahoma entity search or an LLC lookup is important for anyone planning to start a business.

Here’s why:

• Verify Name Availability: Before you settle on a business name, ensure it’s not already in use. An entity search helps you confirm this.
• Understand Your Competition: An entity search provides information on existing businesses. This can give you insights into your competition.
• Check for Compliance: By conducting this search, you ensure that your chosen name complies with state regulations and naming conventions.
• Check Existing LLCs: If you want to form an LLC, checking for existing limited liability companies is crucial. This avoids confusion with similar names.
• Examine Status: An LLC lookup helps you see whether a previously registered LLC is active, dissolved, or in good standing.
• Informed Decision Making: Knowing the details about existing LLCs can help you make better choices for your own business structure and strategy.

Oklahoma LLC Name Search (step-by-step)

Finding the right name when starting your Oklahoma LLC is crucial. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process from start to finish.

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

Start by visiting the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s official website at sos.ok.gov. This site is the primary resource for business entity searches and registrations in Oklahoma.

Step 2: Navigate to the “Business Services” section

Once you’re on the homepage, look for the “Business Services” section. This area contains a variety of tools and resources specifically for business owners.

Click on the link for “Business Services” to get directed to options related to business registration, entity searches, and more.

Step 3: Click on “Name Availability”

In the “Business Services” section, locate the “Name Availability” link. This option allows you to check the availability of LLC names. Clicking this link will take you to the search interface where you can begin looking for your desired name.

Step 4: Enter the desired LLC name in the search field

Input the name you want for your LLC in the search field provided. Be as specific as possible, leaving out terms like “LLC” or “Corp” to get the best results.

The search tool will look for existing entities with similar names to help you determine if your desired name is available.

Once you have entered your desired LLC name, click the “Search” button.

Step 5: Review the search results for name availability

Look at the search results that appear after you click “Search.” Examine the results, including similar names, to see if your desired LLC name is already taken or available for registration.

Even if your desired name is available, you should ensure that it is distinct enough to prevent any legal issues or brand confusion down the line.

Clicking on the blue filing number beside the business name will take you to a detailed page containing more information like:

• Name Type
• Legal Name
• Status
• Corp Type
• Jurisdiction
• Formation Date
• Qualified Flag
• Registered Agent Information

If your desired LLC name is available and meets state guidelines, proceed with the registration process. But if your chosen name is unavailable, you can modify your desired LLC name and repeat the search.

Critical LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in Oklahoma

Choosing a name for your Oklahoma LLC involves more than just creativity—it requires meeting specific state rules. Below are the critical guidelines to follow when naming your LLC in Oklahoma to ensure legal compliance and effective branding.

1. Required Phrases

Your LLC’s name must indicate its legal structure by including one of the following:

• “Limited Liability Company”
• Abbreviations like “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “Ltd. Co.,” or “Limited Co.”

Including one of these designators clarifies the company’s structure and informs customers and partners of your business’s legal status.

2. Uniqueness Requirement

The name you choose must be distinct from all other business names registered in Oklahoma. It should not be identical or overly similar to any active LLC or corporation name on file with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

If “Oklahoma Solutions LLC” is already registered, names like “Oklahoma Solution LLC” or “Oklahoma Solutions Co.” would likely be rejected to prevent confusion.

3. Restricted Words

Some words are restricted to avoid misleading the public. Terms like “Bank”, “Insurance,” and “Trust.” These words suggest regulated business activities and require additional state approval or licensing.

Before including these terms in your name, consult Oklahoma’s licensing requirements for such industries.

4. Fictitious Name (DBA) Registration

If you plan to operate under a name different from your LLC’s registered name, you must file a Doing Business As (DBA) or fictitious name. This DBA name must be unique and registered with the Secretary of State.

5. Conduct a Trademark Search

Perform a trademark search with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to ensure your name doesn’t conflict with existing trademarks. This search can prevent costly legal disputes and protect your brand as you establish your LLC.

6. Compliance with Additional Oklahoma Naming Rules

Certain business types have additional requirements or limitations. For example, licensed professional services might have specific naming rules to meet industry standards.

What Words are not allowed in my Oklahoma LLC name?

Certain words are restricted or prohibited to prevent confusion or misrepresentation when naming your Oklahoma LLC.

Here are key terms to avoid and why:

• Federal or State Agency Names (e.g., FBI, Treasury): Terms that refer to federal or state agencies are strictly prohibited, as they can falsely imply a government affiliation.
• Bank: This word implies banking services, which are highly regulated. Your LLC needs to be a licensed banking institution to use “bank” in your business name.
• Insurance: Suggesting insurance services without proper licensing can mislead the public. Only licensed insurance companies or agencies are permitted to use this term.
• Trust: Using “trust” in your name suggests fiduciary responsibilities, requiring specific authorization. This term is generally reserved for entities that manage trust assets or have state approval to operate as a trust company.
• Corporation/Corp: These terms are restricted to corporations, not LLCs. Including them could mislead the public regarding your LLC’s structure.
• Incorporated/Inc: Like “corporation,” these words are exclusively for incorporated entities and do not apply to LLCs.
• Cooperative/Co-op: This term implies a specific business model or structure, which is not typical for LLCs unless registered as a cooperative entity.
• Professional designations (e.g., CPA, Attorney): Titles like “CPA,” “Attorney,” or “Engineer” suggest professional licensing. Using these in your LLC name generally requires proper certification and regulatory approval.

How do I File an Oklahoma LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)

To reserve your desired LLC name in Oklahoma, follow these steps to ensure the name is unique and available when you’re ready to register.

1. Check Name Availability

Conduct a name availability search on the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s website. Enter your proposed name to check if it’s already in use and to confirm it complies with state guidelines.

2. Prepare Required Information

Gather the following details before starting the reservation process:

• Exact Name: The full, exact name you wish to reserve.
• Applicant Information: Your full name and mailing address.
• LLC Purpose (optional): A short description of the intended business purpose for your LLC.

3. Complete the Reservation Application

Complete the name reservation application, which can be done online through the Secretary of State’s website or by downloading a paper form. Double-check all information to prevent delays.

4. Select Reservation Duration

In Oklahoma, LLC name reservations are valid for up to 60 days. If additional time is needed, be prepared to file for a renewal once the initial period expires.

5. Pay the Filing Fee

A $10 filing fee is required to process the name reservation application in Oklahoma. Check the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s website for the current fee and prepare your payment accordingly.

6. Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed the form and payment, submit it:

• Online: You can submit your name reservation application on the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s filing page.
• By Mail: If filing by paper, send the completed form and fee to this address: Oklahoma Secretary of State 421 NW 13th St, Suite #210 Oklahoma City, OK 73103.

Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations

When starting a business in Oklahoma, consider other naming options and requirements that may apply.

Trade Names and Trademark Search

A trade name, also known as a fictitious name, is the name under which your business operates that differs from your legal business name.

In Oklahoma, registering a trade name gives you the right to use it and prevents others from using a similar name.

Before settling on a trade name, conduct a trademark search. You should check the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to avoid conflicts with existing trademarks.

A name that is already trademarked cannot be used, even if it appears available in state records. This protects your business from potential legal issues down the road.

Filing for Doing Business As (DBA) in Oklahoma

If you wish to operate under a name different from your business’s legal name, you must file for a Doing Business As (DBA) designation. In Oklahoma, this is done through the county clerk’s office where your business is registered.

The DBA form typically requires basic information such as your business name, address, and the names of the owners. There is a $25 filing fee.

Check that your desired DBA is not trademarked or commonly used to avoid conflicts.

Check Domain Name Availability

In today’s digital world, securing a domain name for your business is vital. Your domain name should ideally match your business name to promote brand consistency.

You can check domain availability through registrars like GoDaddy or Namecheap. Consider multiple extensions like .com, .net, and .biz to find the best fit.

If your preferred name is taken, brainstorm alternatives that are still relevant to your business and easy to remember.

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

Completing an Oklahoma LLC name search and reserving your chosen business name can be a valuable step in the early stages of forming your LLC.

Conducting a name search ensures that your desired name is unique and meets Oklahoma’s requirements, helping you avoid potential conflicts with other businesses.

While name reservation requires a small fee ($10), it secures your preferred name for 60 days, giving you the time to finalize other preparations without the risk of losing it.

This step is important if you’re establishing a unique brand in a competitive industry or expanding your business to Oklahoma.

Related posts on Oklahoma LLC:

Frequently Asked Questions

What guidelines must be followed when naming an LLC in Oklahoma?

An LLC name in Oklahoma must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” The name must be unique and not similar to existing business names in the state.

Is there a way to look up an EIN for an LLC in Oklahoma?

You cannot directly look up an EIN (Employer Identification Number) through the Secretary of State’s website. EINs are private and can typically be obtained from the IRS.

Are there annual renewal requirements for an LLC in Oklahoma?

Yes, LLCs in Oklahoma must file an annual franchise tax return. There is also an annual fee to keep your LLC in good standing.

What steps are involved in the Oklahoma Secretary of State entity search for an LLC?

To conduct an LLC name search, visit the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s business entity search page. Input the desired name and review the search results for matches.

How do I check if an LLC name is available in Oklahoma?

To check if an LLC name is available, visit the Secretary of State’s online search portal and enter your proposed name. You will see if that name is already in use or available for registration.