A business venture in New York is a great opportunity. But before you dive in, every entrepreneur should conduct a thorough business search. New York’s business search can help you confirm existing businesses, verify your business name, and ensure compliance with state regulations. This guide will help you navigate the process of starting a new business, investing in a company already established, or exploring potential opportunities.
Explore what a New York Business Search entails. Discover the tools that can help and how you can use them to set up your business for success.
What is a business entity search?
Business entity searches are a way to find out about businesses that have been registered in a particular state. This process is used by New York’s businesses to ensure fair trade, to prevent duplication of business names and provide transparency for investors, entrepreneurs and customers.
You can learn more about a company by conducting a search.
- Business names and statuses
- Agents or owners registered
- Formation date
- Entity Type (LLC, corporation or sole proprietorship)
- Status of compliance
This search is a great way for aspiring entrepreneurs to verify that their desired business name can be used. Investors can use this search to confirm the legitimacy of a business before making a decision.
How to navigate the New York Secretary State Business Registration
New York Secretary Of State (NYSOS), oversees the registration of businesses and ensures they meet all legal requirements for operating in the state. The NYSOS keeps a list of all registered businesses, as well as those that have been dissolved or are in default with respect to state laws.
How to verify or register your business using the resources of another:
New York business registration with the NYSOS: Steps to follow
- Choose Your Business Structure
Decide whether you want to form a corporation, partnership, LLC or sole proprietorship before you register. Each structure comes with its own pros and cons.
- Search for a name
Avoid conflicts and rejections by running a search for business names (we will explain this in more detail below).
- How to File Required Documents
Submit all necessary documents, like the Articles of Organization for an LLC and the Articles of Incorporation for corporations. These documents can be filed online.
- Pay registration fees
The registration costs can vary depending on your business structure. Forming an LLC, for example, is more expensive than registering as a sole proprietorship.
- Get Your Certificate
You’ll be issued a Certificate Status or other official document that proves your business is registered legally in New York.
Pro Tip
Save time! You can work with the NYSOS without having to go through all the manual steps using third-party platforms such as file matching services or business formation software. Consider hiring a consultant to help you with business incorporation if you are unsure.
New York Division of Corporations Name Search
A database is available online for quick searches by the New York State Division of Corporations. The name search tool will be your best friend, especially when it comes to choosing a business name. Searching here will eliminate any potential conflicts since each business has to have its own unique name.
How to Perform a New York Business Name Search
- Browse the Division Corporations Online Database.
- Enter the proposed business name, or any other search criteria.
- Use filters such as “starts with” or “contains”.
- Confirm availability by reviewing results.
Most business owners reserve a name temporarily if it is available. This is especially true during the planning phase. For added peace of mind, you can request a name reserve directly from the Department of State.
New Jersey Business Searches for Entrepreneurs
If you have a business near the New Jersey state border, or if you are considering expanding your company, it is important to know how to conduct searches in nearby states such as New Jersey.
The NJ Business Entity Search tool works similarly to New York, giving you access business names, official filings and statuses. These checks will ensure smooth operations, whether you are ensuring compliance between states or entering a new market.
New York and New Jersey searches: Differences
Both states encourage business transparency. However, New York’s tool is integrated directly with the NYSDOS while New Jersey has separate options to check additional information, such as sales tax permits and zoning laws.
The NYS Division of Corporations Supports Entrepreneurs
Division of Corporations is your advocate for entrepreneurs who are launching businesses in New York. They also provide compliance tips and name availability certificates.
Take Advantage of their Support
- Notifications of Compliance
Sign up for reminders to avoid costly fines if you miss filings.
- Certifications
Do you need to show investors or clients the standing of your company? Request certified copies via their website.
- Direct assistance
Call centers run by the Division can answer questions regarding forming, dissolving or modifying an entity.
Why use the New York Department of State search tools?
New York Department of State offers easy-to-use tools that help you achieve professional legitimacy. Their system is transparent and allows startups and established businesses to compete on an equal footing.
Some examples of search terms:
- Business contact details
- Certificates of Good Standing
- Records of bankruptcy or dissolution
Knowing how to effectively use data from the public sector can unlock new business insights for everyone, whether it’s small businesses or angel investors who are vetting potential partnerships.
Confidence is the first step.
It may seem daunting to begin with, but investing the time upfront in ensuring accuracy will save you a lot of headaches down the road.
These services will help you to understand the process of entering New York, setting up subsidiaries, or obtaining multisite permits.
Got your next great endeavor brewing? Secure DOS systems designed for entrepreneurs allow you to check the availability of your name today.