Louisiana’s economy presents both challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs. While forecasts show slow growth, the unemployment rate is steadily declining, signaling gradual improvement. For those looking to start a business, this environment offers the chance to stand out and potentially contribute to the state’s evolving economy.
Those hoping to strike out on their own might actually have a better time here since competition’s not as fierce. Plus, you might be at the forefront of Louisiana’s improving economy.
If you now think that Louisiana is a good place to make your dreams come true, then keep reading. This is how you can do a Louisiana business entity search to ensure your desired company name is available.
Do a Louisiana Secretary of State Business Entity Search
When people register their companies, they usually do so with the Secretary of State. So a great resource for a Louisiana business search is on the Secretary of State’s website. You’ll get access to their records, and it’s typically free too.
On this page, you’ll have three choices for the search type:
- Entity name
- Charter number, trade registration number, or name reservation number
- Officer name or agent name
Every search option will have a resulting search bar, except the last choice, which will give you two blanks for first and last names. Generally speaking, you’ll want to use the first option to try out several possible names. Type one in, and then click on “Search.”
On the results page, you’ll see any possible matches, with the following information:
- Name
- Type
- City
- Details
If you click on the “Details” button, it’ll show you more about a particular company. Make sure you try various combinations, as that’ll have you covered on the legal front. In other words, you can be more certain about choosing a name that’s distinct and won’t be mistaken for another business.
Take a Look Through Search Engine Results Pages
Another way to do an LA business entity search is to use your web browser. The concept is similar: try different versions of your desired company name to see if any results come up.
To narrow things down, you should also put “Louisiana” in your search queries. If applicable, try a few city names too.
While you’re at it, take note of free domain names. You should spend a few dollars to reserve one, as it’ll help your branding in the future.
Don’t forget to search social media handles too. Again, if you can get the exact business name, then that’ll only aid branding and make people aware of your brand, which can boost conversions.
Try Our Business Search Tool
We offer a free business registration service, which is very handy. You only have to pay the state fee, plus whatever “a la carte” services you’d like to use. All of them are listed transparently on our site so you aren’t hit with any surprises.
On the same page, we also have a business search tool at the top. Just enter the business name into the search bar, select LLC, PLLC, or corporation, and then “Check availability.”
If that name’s free, we’ll tell you right away. At this point, you can try another search or click off entirely, as it’s a no-obligations search.
However, if you’re interested in using our services, keep scrolling. You can then fill in your contact details so we can reach out and discuss things further.
Carry Out a Louisiana Business Entity Search
A Louisiana business entity search is important to do since it’ll tell you what names have already been registered. Considering that a business search in LA is free to do through any of the methods we’ve listed, it’s worth sitting down and being thorough.
The reality is that you might face fines or even a shutdown if someone sues you for infringement. So do your due diligence to ensure that won’t happen.
Sign up with Business Anywhere now to use our free business registration service (you just pay your state fees!). We have experts on standby ready to help you with any questions regarding company formation.