Pennsylvania LLC Name Search & Lookup (Guide)

Starting an LLC in Pennsylvania gives you access to a thriving business environment. But before you officially launch, you must pick a unique name that’s never been used by an existing business in the state.

Use the Pennsylvania Department of State’s business entity search tool to ensure your desired name is available.

This Pennsylvania LLC name search and lookup guide walks you through the steps to find a unique and memorable name, fully compliant with state requirements.

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

When starting an LLC in Pennsylvania, you may wonder if you should conduct an entity search or an LLC lookup.

Here are great reasons to conduct a Pennsylvania LLC name search:

• Verify Existence: You can confirm if a specific business name is already in use. This helps avoid duplication and possible legal issues.
• Check Legal Status: An entity search reveals whether a business is active, inactive, or has legal problems. This information is vital before forming a partnership or investing.
• Ownership Details: If you want to know who owns a business, an entity search can provide names and registered agent details.

Here are compelling reasons to perform an LLC lookup:

• Name Availability: If you’re forming an LLC, use the LLC lookup to ensure your desired name isn’t taken. This can save you time and effort.
• Organizational Structure: This search confirms that a business is indeed an LLC and helps you understand its structure, like member details.
• Access Public Information: The Pennsylvania Department of State allows you to view general information about LLCs, which can aid your research.

Pennsylvania LLC Name Search (step-by-step)

To start your Pennsylvania LLC name search, follow these straightforward steps.

Step 1: Visit the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website

Begin by accessing the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website at pa.gov. This site is the most reliable source for business entity searches in Pennsylvania.

Step 2: Navigate to the “Business and Corporations” section

Once on the site, locate the “Business and Corporation” section. This area contains various resources for business registration and entity management.

Step 3: Click on “Search Business Entities”

In the “Business” section, find and click on “Search Business Entities.” This link directs you to the search tool for checking existing business names.

Click this option to move forward with your LLC name search. It takes you directly to a page where you can enter specific details about the name you are considering.

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

Now, input the name you want for your LLC into the search field. Make sure to type it exactly as you envision it. Spelling and formatting matter, as small changes can lead to different results.

Click on the “Advanced” option to pick the search criteria, including “Starts With” or “Contains.” You can select filters like filing type, status, and filing date.

With your name and criteria in place, click the “Search” button to initiate the search.

Step 5: Review the search results for name availability

Once the search is complete, you will see the results listed on the page. If the search shows “No results were found for (your search term),” your LLC name is available.

But if the name appears, it may already belong to another entity. You will get details about filing information, initial filing date, status, entity type, formed in state, and address.

Clicking on the blue filing information will generate more details about the entity including:

• Filing Type
• Filing Subtype
• Registered Office

If your desired LLC name is available, proceed with the registration process. However, if the name you wanted is not available, brainstorm alternatives.

Critical LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in Pennsylvania

When setting up your LLC in Pennsylvania, selecting a name that follows state guidelines is essential.

Here’s a breakdown of the LLC naming guidelines in Pennsylvania.

1. Distinctiveness of Your LLC Name

Your LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other registered entities in Pennsylvania. Use the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Business Entity Search to check for name availability and avoid names that are identical or deceptively similar to existing businesses.

If there is an existing “Liberty Construction LLC,” names like “Liberty Builders LLC” might be considered too similar and could be rejected.

2. Required Designators for LLCs

Your LLC’s name must include words or abbreviations that clearly indicate it is a limited liability company.

Acceptable options include:

• “Limited Liability Company”
• “LLC” or “L.L.C.”

A name like “Keystone Consulting LLC” meets the requirement, but “Keystone Consulting” alone would not.

3. Avoiding Prohibited and Restricted Words

Certain words are restricted or require special approval to be used in LLC names. Restricted words are typically related to professions or government, which could cause public confusion or suggest false affiliations.

• Prohibited Words: Avoid terms like “Corp,” “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Inc.” These words imply a corporation, which is a different type of business entity.
• Special Approval Words: Some terms, such as “Bank,” “Attorney,” “Trust,” “University,” and “Insurance,” are restricted and may require documentation or authorization from state agencies to include in your name.

4. Fictitious or “Doing Business As” (DBA) Names

If you want to operate under a name that differs from your LLC’s legal name, you must register a fictitious name, also known as a DBA (Doing Business As). This alternative name must also be unique and registered with the state.

“Green Valley Farms LLC” might use a DBA for “Valley Organic Market” to create a unique, marketable identity under a different name.

5. Avoiding Misleading Terms

Your LLC name should not contain terms that could mislead the public regarding your business structure or activities. Avoid names that imply incorporation (e.g., “Corp” or “Inc.”) or terms that could misrepresent your services.

“Keystone Innovations Corp” would not be permitted for an LLC, as “Corp” implies the entity is a corporation rather than an LLC.

6. Checking for Trademark Conflicts

To avoid legal issues, verify that your LLC name does not infringe on any existing trademarks. Use the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to conduct a trademark search and confirm there are no conflicts with other business names.

If “Liberty Health” is already trademarked in a relevant industry, you should avoid this name or consult an attorney to prevent potential infringement issues.

What Words are not allowed in my Pennsylvania LLC name?

Here’s a breakdown of restricted terms when naming your Pennsylvania LLC and why they’re not allowed:

• Corporation Terms (“Corporation,” “Corp.,” “Incorporated,” “Inc.”): These words imply a corporate structure, which is legally different from an LLC. Using them would misrepresent your business’s legal entity type.
• Government-Related Terms (“FBI,” “Treasury,” “Secret Service”): Words associated with government entities are restricted to prevent public confusion. They could mistakenly imply that your business is part of or endorsed by a government organization.
• Financial Institution Terms (“Bank,” “Trust,” “Credit Union”): These terms are regulated by state and federal banking laws. They typically require special approvals to ensure that only licensed institutions handle financial services for consumer protection.
• Professional Terms (“Attorney,” “Doctor,” “Engineer”): Words indicating professional services usually require additional licensing or certification by Pennsylvania’s relevant licensing boards to ensure qualified professionals are providing specialized services.
• Insurance Terms (“Insurance,” “Assurance,” “Reinsurance”): These terms are regulated under Pennsylvania insurance laws, limiting their use to businesses that hold the necessary licenses and meet legal requirements for operating in the insurance industry.
• Education Terms (“University,” “College,” “Academy”): Using these words could misleadingly suggest that your business is an educational institution, which typically requires accreditation and oversight from educational authorities.
• Healthcare-Related Terms (“Clinic,” “Hospital,” “Pharmacy”): Words associated with healthcare services are restricted to ensure public safety and trust. Businesses using these terms need to meet rigorous health department regulations and licensing requirements.
• Restricted Industry Terms (“Cooperative,” “Olympic”): Certain words, like “Olympic,” are protected by law to prevent unauthorized usage (in this case, by the U.S. Olympic Committee). Similarly, “Cooperative” often implies a specific legal structure distinct from an LLC.

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

To file an LLC name reservation in Pennsylvania, follow these simple steps to secure your desired business name before registering your LLC.

1. Choose a Unique Name

Ensuring your business name complies with Pennsylvania naming requirements is essential.

Your LLC name must include “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviation “L.L.C.” or “LLC,” and it must be distinguishable from existing business names on record with the Pennsylvania Department of State.

2. Complete the Name Reservation Application

Download and fill out the Pennsylvania Name Reservation form (Form DSCB:15-208). You’ll need to provide key information:

• Full name of the applicant
• Physical and mailing address
• Desired LLC name

3. Submit the Form and Pay the Filing Fee

Submit your form by mail or in-person to the Pennsylvania Department of State:

• Mailing Address: Pennsylvania Department of State P.O. Box 8722 Harrisburg, PA 17105-8722
• In-Person Submission: 401 North Street, Room 206 Harrisburg, PA 17120

Include a $70 filing fee, payable via check or money order to the “Department of State.”

4. Await Confirmation

Once approved, your LLC name will be reserved for 120 days. This period allows you time to finalize your LLC registration under your chosen name.

Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations

When starting a business in Pennsylvania, you need to consider more than just the LLC name. This includes registering for fictitious names, checking domain name availability, and ensuring you are not infringing on trademarks.

Filing for Doing Business As (DBA) in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, if you plan to operate under a name different from your LLC’s legal name, you need to file for a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name.

• Complete the Form: Fill out the Fictitious Name Registration form, listing the desired DBA name and your LLC’s legal name.
• Submit to the Department of State: File the form with the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations.
• Publication Requirement: Once approved, publish a notice of your DBA in two local newspapers.

This process allows you to legally use a trade name, ensuring transparency and compliance with state requirements.

Check Domain Name Availability

Having a website is essential in today’s business landscape. Before finalizing your LLC name, it’s wise to check if the corresponding domain name is available. This can help create a cohesive branding strategy and make it easier for customers to find you online.

To check domain availability, use sites like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains. Enter your desired business name to see if it’s available as a domain.

If your first choice is taken, consider slight variations, such as adding “PA” or “online” to the name.

Trade Names and Trademark Search

Before finalizing your business name, conduct a trademark search to avoid infringing on existing trademarks and protect your brand from legal issues.

Start by visiting the USPTO website and use the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) to check for existing trademarks. You can check Pennsylvania’s state database for registered trademarks.

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

Absolutely. Conducting a thorough search and reserving your business in Pennsylvania is a crucial step in establishing and protecting your brand. This process ensures that your chosen business name is unique and not already in use.

By taking these proactive measures, you secure your business identity and gain peace of mind, knowing your brand is protected.

Additionally, reserving your business name can prevent others from registering a similar name, further safeguarding your brand’s uniqueness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to search for a registered LLC in Pennsylvania?

To search for a registered LLC, go to the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Business Entity Search page. Enter the name of the LLC in the search bar and review the results for relevant information.

Where can one find information on Pennsylvania business license status?

You can find information about business license status by contacting your local municipality or by visiting their official website. Each locality may have different requirements and processes.

What are Pennsylvania’s specific legal requirements for LLC naming?

Pennsylvania requires that your LLC name include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” The name must also be unique and not similar to existing entities registered in the state.

How to register a new business entity in Pennsylvania online?

To register online, visit the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website and use the online registration portal. You will need to provide your business name, structure, and other required information.

How do I search for and get a Trademark for my business in Pennsylvania?

To search for trademarks, use the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s database. If you wish to register a trademark, you must complete an application on their website and pay the required fee.