Tennessee LLC Name Search & Entity Lookup (Guide)

Choosing the perfect name for your LLC in Tennessee is key to successfully registering your business.
Knowing how to perform a Tennessee LLC name search is critical.
You can use the Tennessee Secretary of State’s online search tool for a quick and easy name lookup. This process ensures your business stands out and meets the state’s requirements.
This guide walks you through each process step, from searching for your LLC name to reserving it.
Should You Conduct a Tennessee LLC Name Search or a Lookup?
Conducting an LLC name search is important when starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Tennessee.
Here are some reasons why you should perform this search:
- Avoid Conflicts: Performing a Tennessee LLC lookup ensures that the name you want isn’t already taken by another business. This avoids legal problems in the future.
- Ensure Compliance: Tennessee has specific rules about business names. Your name must be unique and not too similar to existing names.
- Easy Registration: Knowing your name is available can speed up the registration process. You will avoid delays if you choose an unused name.
- Brand Identity: A unique name helps establish your brand. It allows you to stand out in the market and attract customers.
Tennessee LLC Name Search (step-by-step)
To successfully search for your desired LLC name in Tennessee, follow the steps outlined here:
Step 1: Visit the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website
Start by visiting the official Tennessee Secretary of State’s website at sos.tn.gov. This is where you will access the tools needed for your LLC name search.
Step 2: Click on the “Search Business Name Availability” Link

Once on the website, look for the “Search Business Name Availability” link. Clicking on this link will give you access to a tool for name searches.
If you want to perform an LLC lookup for an existing business or test for different variations on a proposed name, click the “Find and Update a Business Record” link.

The “Business Information Search” tool lets you set search criteria like “Search With” and “Contains” on the “Search Name” box. You can also tick the “Active Entities Only” box to get only active businesses.
Step 3: Enter the desired LLC name in the search field

Enter the name you wish to search for in the provided search field and tick the “I’m not a Robot” verification check box. Be as specific as possible, entering the exact name you are considering.
Once you have set your name, click the “Search” button to execute your query.
Step 4: Review the search results for name availability

After completing the search, review the results carefully. If the search result shows “No Matches Found,” your proposed LLC name is available.

But if the search result shows any name, your proposed LLC name may be currently in use in the State of Tennessee. You will get information about the Control Number, Entity Type, Entity Name, Name Type, and State/Country of Formation.
Click on the Control Number in blue to get access to a “detailed “Business Entity Detail” page that shows the following information:
- Initial Filing Date
- Fiscal Year Close
- Principal Office
- Mailing Address
- Managed By Number of Members
If your desired LLC name is marked as available, you can move forward with the registration process. If your desired name is not available, you will need to revise your choice.
Crucial LLC Naming Guidelines and Requirements in Tennessee
When choosing a name for your LLC in Tennessee, there are important guidelines to follow:
1. Include Required Terms
Your LLC name must include “Limited Liability Company” or one of its acceptable abbreviations, such as “LLC” or “L.L.C.” This designation helps identify your business as a limited liability company to the public.
2. Ensure Name Distinguishability
The name you choose must be distinct and not deceptively similar to any existing business name registered in Tennessee. If your chosen name is already in use or too closely resembles another business name, it won’t be approved.
Conducting a name search with the Tennessee Secretary of State’s database is essential to confirm availability and avoid conflicts.
3. Avoid Prohibited Words
Tennessee restricts certain terms to prevent confusion with government entities. Avoid using words like “FBI,” “Treasury,” or other terms that imply association with government agencies.
Additionally, words tied to regulated professions or industries, like “Bank” or “University,” may require special paperwork or licenses.
4. Exclude Identifying Designators in Name Searches
When searching for name availability, only enter the core part of your desired name without designators such as “LLC.” This way, you’ll see results that accurately reflect whether the unique portion of your name is available.
What Words Are Not Allowed in My Tennessee LLC Name?
When choosing a name for your LLC in Tennessee, there are specific words you must avoid.
1. Misleading Terms
Avoid words that could imply your LLC is affiliated with government agencies. Using terms like “FBI,” “CIA,” “Treasury,” or “Secret Service” could confuse the public and is prohibited.
“Tennessee Treasury Consulting, LLC” would likely be rejected, as it may imply an association with the Tennessee State Treasury.
2. Restricted Terms
Certain words tied to regulated industries require special permissions, additional paperwork, or licenses. These words are restricted to protect the public and maintain compliance with state regulations.
- Bank: Implies banking services, which are highly regulated by financial authorities.
- Insurance: Suggests that the LLC is involved in insurance services, which requires licensing from the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.
- Trust: Indicates trust or fiduciary services, which may require state-level approval.
Example: “Volunteer State Insurance Advisors, LLC” would likely be denied without proper licensing due to the use of “Insurance.”
3. Implying a Different Structure
Your LLC name cannot imply a business structure other than an LLC. This means avoiding terms like “Incorporated,” “Corp,” or “Partnership,” which are specific to other business types.
- Incorporated or Corp: Used exclusively by corporations, not LLCs.
- Partnership: This only applies to partnerships, not LLCs.
Example: “Tennessee Ventures Corp, LLC” would be unacceptable, as “Corp” is a designator for a corporation.
4. Sensitive Words
Words that are offensive, inappropriate, or discriminatory are not allowed. This includes any terms that are racially or culturally offensive, as well as language that could be seen as promoting hate or divisiveness.
5. Profanity
Vulgar or obscene language is strictly prohibited in LLC names. Tennessee upholds high standards of professionalism for business names, ensuring that all names are respectful and suitable for public use.
6. Similar Names
Your LLC name must be unique within Tennessee. Names that are too similar to existing businesses create the potential for confusion and legal issues. Conducting a thorough name search is essential to confirm the distinctiveness of your name.
“Music City Solutions, LLC” would likely be denied if there’s an existing “Music City Solutions Group, LLC,” as the names are too similar.
7. Foreign Language Words
If you include foreign words in your LLC name, they must be translated appropriately into English. Foreign language words cannot convey prohibited meanings when translated or imply anything misleading about your business.
If you choose a French word like “Banque” (meaning “Bank”) for a financial business, it may require special permissions due to its regulated meaning in English.
How do I File a Tennessee LLC Name Reservation? (In steps)
To file a Tennessee LLC name reservation, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose a Name that Complies with Tennessee Naming Requirements
Your LLC name must include the words “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation like “L.L.C.” or “LLC.”
The name should be distinguishable from any existing business names registered with the Tennessee Secretary of State to avoid confusion.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application for Name Reservation Form
Complete Tennessee’s “Application for Name Reservation” (SS-9425) form. This form requires key details including the full name of the person reserving the name, physical address, mailing address, and the name of the LLC being reserved.
Step 3: Submit the Form
You can submit your Tennessee’s “Application for Name Reservation” form by mail or in person.
If submitting by mail, send the completed application and the $20 filing fee (check or money order) to the Tennessee Secretary of State Business Services Division at Corporate Filing 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave FL 6 Nashville TN 37243.
Other Business Entities and Naming Considerations
When forming a business in Tennessee, understanding names and branding is crucial. This includes trade names, DBAs, and domain name availability.
Trade Names and Trademark Search
A trade name is the name under which you conduct business. It is different from your legal business name. To choose an effective trade name, it should be easy to remember and relevant to your services.
Before settling on a trade name, conduct a trademark search. This step ensures that your name does not infringe on existing trademarks, helping you avoid legal issues. You can search the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database.
Filing for Doing Business As (DBA) in Tennessee
If you plan to operate under a name different from your registered business name, you must file for a Doing Business As (DBA). This process lets the public know who is behind the business.
Filing a DBA can help you build your brand and establish a distinct identity. Remember, you must renew your DBA registration periodically.
Check Domain Name Availability
In today’s digital world, your business’s online presence is essential. Checking the availability of a domain name that matches your business name or DBA is recommended.
You can use various online tools to see if your desired domain is available. Here are some steps to follow:
- Search on domain registrars: Websites like GoDaddy and Namecheap allow you to search for domains.
- Consider variations: If your first choice is taken, think about slight changes or different extensions, like .net or .biz.
- Protect your brand: Consider securing similar domains to prevent confusion or brand dilution.
A matching domain name can enhance your branding efforts and make it easier for customers to find you online.
Final Thoughts – Is it Worth it to Search and Reserve My Business in Tennessee?
Yes, conducting a thorough name search and reserving your business name in Tennessee is a worthwhile step.
By performing a Tennessee LLC name search, you can confirm that your desired name is unique, complies with state requirements, and helps you establish a distinctive brand.
Reserving your business name provides an extra layer of security as you complete the registration process, ensuring no one else can claim your name for the period.
Although a small additional step, searching and reserving your business name is an investment in your business’s identity and future success, helping you establish a solid foundation in Tennessee’s competitive market.
Related posts on Tennessee LLC:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business license in Tennessee if I have an LLC?
Yes, having an LLC does not exempt you from needing a business license. You must obtain the necessary permits or licenses for your specific business activities to operate legally.
How long does a Tennessee LLC Name Reservation last?
A name reservation in Tennessee lasts for four months (120 days). During this time, you can complete the formation of your LLC using the reserved name.
What are the most important LLC naming guidelines in Tennessee?
Naming guidelines include ensuring your name is unique, not misleading and includes “Limited Liability Company” or its abbreviation (LLC or L.L.C.). You must avoid restricted words that could confuse your business with government agencies.
Can I use the name of another Tennessee entity?
No, you cannot use the name of another registered entity in Tennessee. Each LLC must have a unique name to avoid legal conflicts.
How can I check if a business name is already taken in Tennessee?
You can check the availability of a business name using the Tennessee Secretary of State’s online search tool. This search will show if the name is already registered or if similar names are taken.
What steps are involved in performing a business entity search in Tennessee ?
First, visit the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website. Then, navigate to the ‘Business Services’ section. From there, select ‘Search for a Business Name or Entity’ and enter the name you are interested in.
What is the process for finding the registered agent for an LLC in Tennessee?
To find the registered agent, perform a business entity search on the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website. The search results will include details about the registered agent associated with the LLC.
Can I search for a Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filing in Tennessee, and if so, how?
Yes, you can search for UCC filings in Tennessee. Visit the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website and use their UCC search tool to access filed documents related to secured transactions.
What information is needed to file an Annual Report for a Tennessee LLC?
To file an Annual Report, you will need your LLC’s name, the principal office address, and the names of your members or managers. Keep your business information up to date for compliance.
Where can I locate tax information for Tennessee LLCs through the Department of Revenue?
You can find tax information on the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s website. They provide resources related to LLC taxes, including filing requirements and payment options.
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