Want to start a business in Pennsylvania? The Pennsylvania Department of State offers a free online tool to search for registered business entities. This database includes corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and other business types.
Before you register a new business or start using a particular business name, it’s a good idea to conduct a business entity search. Doing so can help you avoid legal conflicts and make sure the name you want is available.
This guide will walk you through how to use the Pennsylvania Business Entity Search portal. We’ll share tips for conducting searches, interpreting the results, and understanding common Pennsylvania business terminology. Using the PA Secretary of State corporation search is a great way to ensure your business is legally compliant.
Understanding the Pennsylvania Business Entity Search Tool
The Pennsylvania Department of State offers a free online tool you can use to look up information about businesses registered in the state. It’s a simple way to confirm that a business exists and to check its current status.
You can also use the search tool to see if a business name is available before you register your new business. The database includes information on different types of business entities, including:
- Corporations
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
- Partnerships
- Non-profit organizations
The Pennsylvania Business Entity Search portal is free and available any time of the day or night. If you’re an entrepreneur, researcher, or legal professional, it’s a handy resource to have at your fingertips.
You can access it through the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website.
How to Search for a Business Entity in Pennsylvania
Ready to do a Pennsylvania corporation search? Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Accessing the Search Portal
- Go to the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website.
- Look for a “Business Entity Search” link. It’s often under a “Businesses” or “Online Services” section.
Choosing a Search Method
The PA Department of State offers two search options:
- Basic Search: Search by business name or entity number.
- Type in the full or partial name of the business.
- Or, if you know it, enter the entity number.
- Advanced Search: This gives you more ways to narrow your search, like date filters and specific entity types. This is helpful if you’re searching for a business with a common name.
Reviewing Search Results
The search results show a list of businesses that match what you entered.
- You’ll see key info, like the business name, when it was filed, what type of entity it is, and its current status.
- Take a close look to see if there are any names that are too similar or to check on the status of a particular business.
Accessing Detailed Business Information
Clicking on a business name will give you more details, such as the registered office address and filing history. You may also see the names of key people involved, but that info may be limited.
Requesting Additional Documents (Optional)
You might be able to order official documents, such as Certificates of Good Standing. These can be handy for legal or financial reasons, but there’s usually a fee involved.
Interpreting Pennsylvania Business Entity Status Designations
When you run a search in the Pennsylvania Department of State’s business entity database, you’ll see a status designation for each listing. Here’s what those designations mean:
- Active: The business is current on all filings, fees, and requirements and is authorized to operate in Pennsylvania.
- Inactive: The business is not actively operating. You’ll need to look at the specific entity type to understand exactly what “inactive” means.
- Cancelled: The business itself has terminated its registration.
- Withdrawn: Typically, this status applies to businesses based outside Pennsylvania that have stopped doing business in the state.
- Merged: The business was absorbed into another entity.
- Expired: The business registration lapsed because the entity failed to renew or meet other requirements.
Understanding these status designations is vital to knowing whether a business is currently in good standing. Keep in mind that the implications of each status may differ slightly based on the specific type of business entity.
Unique features and considerations for Pennsylvania’s search tool
The Pennsylvania Department of State’s business entity search tool is a handy resource, but it has a few quirks you should know about. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Registered Office vs. Registered Agent
In Pennsylvania, they use the term “Registered Office” rather than “Registered Agent.” The registered office is simply the street address where official legal and tax documents are sent.
Limited Data Availability
Unlike some other states’ search tools, the Pennsylvania Business Entity Search won’t give you information about business owners or officers. You also can’t search by business type or industry.
Name Availability and Distinctiveness
When you’re naming your business, keep in mind that Pennsylvania requires business names to be distinct from other entities registered in the state. The Department of State can turn down names that are too similar to existing ones.
To avoid legal problems and make sure your business name is available, it’s important to do a thorough search.
Tips for an Effective Pennsylvania Business Search
Finding the business you’re looking for in Pennsylvania can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you perform an effective search:
- Use partial names: If you aren’t sure about the spelling of a business name, try typing in a few letters. This can help you find variations of the name or correct misspellings.
- Check different name variations: Try searching for abbreviations, acronyms, and slightly different versions of the business name. You want to make sure no one else is using a similar name.
- Search by entity number: The most accurate way to find a business is to search for its entity number.
- Use date filters for newer businesses: If you’re looking for a business that was recently registered, try narrowing your search by date. This can be helpful when the business has a common name.
What to do after confirming name availability
Once you’ve confirmed that your desired business name isn’t already in use, you have a few more steps to take before you’re in the clear:
- Reserve the business name (optional): In Pennsylvania, you can reserve your business name for 120 days for a $70 fee. This guarantees you can use the name while you finish forming your business.
- Check trademark databases: Search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to ensure your chosen name doesn’t violate any existing trademarks.
- Search domain name availability: Make sure the corresponding domain name is available for your business website.
- Search social media platforms: Check if your desired business name is available on popular social media platforms.
Registering Your Business in Pennsylvania (Brief Overview)
So, you’re ready to start a business in Pennsylvania? Excellent. Here’s a quick look at what’s involved in registering your business with the PA Department of State:
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
To form an LLC, you’ll need to file a Certificate of Organization with the Department of State. The filing fee is $125. While you’re not legally required to have an operating agreement, it’s definitely a good idea to create one.
Corporations
If you’re incorporating, you’ll file Articles of Incorporation with the Department of State. The filing fee is also $125. Corporations are required to have corporate bylaws.
Other Entity Types
Partnerships, Limited Partnerships, and other business structures have their own specific filing requirements. Check the Department of State’s website for detailed instructions. The fee to register a fictitious name is $70.
Pennsylvania Business Filing Fees (2025)
Here’s a quick rundown of the fees you can expect to pay when filing business documents with the Pennsylvania Department of State, effective in 2025:
- Name Reservation: $70
- Certificate of Organization (LLC): $125
- Articles of Incorporation: $125
- Fictitious Name Registration: $70
- Foreign Registration Statement: $250
- Certificate of Amendment: $70
- Certificate of Subsistence/Good Standing: $40
- Annual Report Filing (beginning 2025): $7
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Business Entity Searches
- How long does a name reservation last in Pennsylvania?
- 120 days.
- What do the different status labels mean in Pennsylvania’s business search?
- See Section IV for detailed explanations of the status labels you may encounter.
- Can I register or reserve a business name online in Pennsylvania?
- Yes, the Pennsylvania Department of State offers online filing options for business registration and name reservation.
- Does Pennsylvania show business owner names in the entity search?
- No, the names of business owners or officers are not publicly displayed in the Pennsylvania business entity search results.
- What should I do if my desired business name is taken in Pennsylvania?
- If your first-choice business name is already in use, you’ll need to consider alternative names or variations. Brainstorm some similar options and check their availability before proceeding.
- Is there a fee to use the Pennsylvania business entity search?
- No, the Pennsylvania business entity search tool is provided free of charge by the Department of State.
Putting It All Together
The Pennsylvania Business Entity Search is an essential tool for anyone launching or investigating businesses within the Commonwealth. It’s a great way to confirm if your desired business name is available, check the current status of a company, and find vital details.
By using the tips and instructions in this guide, you can use the search portal effectively and make well-informed business decisions. Whether you’re trying to find out who owns a business, need to verify a company’s registration, or explore Pennsylvania’s business landscape, this tool is a great place to start.
Keep in mind that this tool is only one step in the process. Always seek advice from legal and financial professionals for personalized guidance on business formation and compliance issues.