How to Do a New Hampshire Business Entity Search

Are you planning to start a business in New Hampshire or need to research an existing company? The New Hampshire Secretary of State’s “NH QuickStart” Business Entity Search portal is your gateway to accessing vital information about registered businesses in the Granite State. This comprehensive guide walks you through exactly how to use this essential tool, with state-specific details you won’t find elsewhere.

What is the New Hampshire Business Entity Search?

The New Hampshire Secretary of State’s Corporation Division maintains the state’s official business registry through the NH QuickStart portal. As stated by the Secretary of State’s office, their mission is to “provide accessible, efficient, and transparent services that support the creation, growth, and compliance of New Hampshire businesses.”

This online database allows you to:

• Verify if your desired business name is available
• Research competitors or potential partners
• Find registered agent information
• Check a company’s legal status and standing
• Access public business documents
• Verify trademark registrations

Accessing the NH QuickStart Business Entity Search Tool

Direct Link: NH QuickStart Business Entity Search

The NH QuickStart portal is the official business search platform maintained by the New Hampshire Secretary of State. Unlike some states that charge for business searches, New Hampshire provides this service completely free of charge.

Quick Tip: As of May 2025, the Customer Service Lobby of the Corporations Division has been temporarily relocated to 28 School Street (across from Municipal Parking Garage) in Concord due to ongoing construction. If you need in-person assistance, the lobby is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm.

Step-by-Step Guide to Searching New Hampshire Business Entities

Method 1: Searching by Business Name (Most Common)

1. Access the Search Portal: Navigate to the NH QuickStart Business Entity Search page.
2. Select Search Type: On the left side of the page, you’ll see radio buttons. Select the first option to search by business name.
3. Set Search Parameters: You’ll notice additional radio buttons at the top of the page that let you refine your search:
   • Starts With: Finds businesses whose names begin with your search term
   • Exact Match: Finds businesses with names identical to your search term
   • Contains: Finds businesses with names containing your search term anywhere
   • All Words: Finds businesses whose names contain all the words in your search term
   • Show Me Similar Sounding Business Names: An optional checkbox that includes phonetically similar names
4. Enter Search Term: Type your search term in the box.
   • NH-Specific Tip: The search is NOT case-sensitive, but it IS affected by punctuation and special characters. Don’t include entity designators like “LLC” or “Inc.” in your search.
5. Complete CAPTCHA: Enter the security verification text.
6. View Results: Click “Search” to see a list of matching businesses. The results table includes:
   • Business Name
   • Business ID
   • Home State
   • Previous Name (if applicable)
   • Business Type
   • Principal Office Address
   • Registered Agent Name
   • Status
7. View Business Details: Click on any business name (shown in blue text) to access its complete public information.

Method 2: Searching by Business ID

If you know the unique Business ID number assigned by the state:

1. Select the “Business ID” radio button on the left side of the search page.
2. Enter the Business ID number.
3. Complete the CAPTCHA verification.
4. Click “Search” to go directly to that business’s information page.

Method 3: Searching by Filing Number

To find a business based on a specific document filing number:

1. Select the “Filing Number” radio button.
2. Enter the filing number of the document.
3. Complete the CAPTCHA verification.
4. Click “Search” to find the associated business record.

Method 4: Searching by Registered Agent

This unique New Hampshire search method lets you find all businesses represented by a particular registered agent:

1. Select the “Registered Agent Name” radio button.
2. Enter the registered agent’s name.
3. Complete the CAPTCHA verification.
4. Click “Search” to see a list of agents matching your search term.
5. Click on the specific agent’s name to view all businesses they represent.

Understanding the Business Information Page

When you click on a business name in the search results, you’ll see the detailed Business Information page, which contains several important sections:

1. Business Information Section

• Business Name
• Business ID (unique identifier assigned by NH)
• Business Type (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
• Business Status (Active, Dissolved, etc.)
• Principal Office Address
• Principal Mailing Address (if different)
• Formation/Registration Date
• Business Email (if provided)

2. Registered Agent Information

• Agent Name
• Office Address
• Mailing Address (if different)

3. Filing History

A chronological list of all documents filed with the state, including:

• Formation documents
• Annual reports
• Amendments
• Any status changes

4. Trade Name Information

If the business operates under any trade names (DBAs), they will be listed here.

5. Trademark Information

Any trademarks registered by the business in New Hampshire.

NH-Specific Feature: The New Hampshire Secretary of State now issues computer-generated black-and-white seals on all certificates, rather than raised gold seals. The new certificates contain both a business ID number and a certificate number, which can be verified for authenticity on the QuickStart portal.

Business Entity Status in New Hampshire

When reviewing a business record, pay attention to the status field, which indicates the company’s standing with the state:

• Active/Good Standing: The business is current on all filings and fees
• Dissolved: The business has formally closed, either voluntarily or by state action
• Delinquent: The business has missed required filings or payments
• Not In Good Standing: There are compliance issues that need resolution
• Inactive: The business is no longer operating but hasn’t formally dissolved

Obtaining Business Documents and Certificates

After conducting your search, you may need official documents. Only the New Hampshire Secretary of State can issue official certificates and document copies.

Types of Available Documents

• Plain Copies: Unofficial copies of business filings
• Certified Copies: Official copies with state certification
• Certificate of Good Standing: Confirms a business is in compliance with state requirements
• Certificate of Existence: Verifies a business exists in the state records

How to Request Documents

Online Method:

1. Login to your NH QuickStart account (or create one)
2. Select the appropriate document request option
3. Pay the required fee online
4. Receive electronic delivery for some documents

Mail Method: Send a written request to: Corporation Division NH Dept. of State 107 N Main St, Rm 204 Concord, NH 03301-4989

In-Person Method: Visit the temporary Customer Service Lobby location at: 28 School Street Concord, NH 03301

Document Fees (as of May 2025)

• Plain Copy: $5 per document
• Certified Copy: $15 per document
• Certificate of Good Standing: $10
• Certificate of Existence: $10
• Expedited Service: Additional $25

Processing Times: Standard processing for online filings is currently 15-18 business days (as of May 2025). Expedited service is available for an additional fee.

Checking Name Availability for a New Business

Before forming a business in New Hampshire, you should verify that your desired name is available. Follow these steps:

1. Use the NH QuickStart Business Entity Search as described above
2. Select “All Words” as your search parameter
3. Enter your desired business name WITHOUT any entity designator (LLC, Inc., etc.)
4. Review the results carefully

New Hampshire Name Requirements and Restrictions

According to Section 304-C:32 of the New Hampshire LLC Act, your business name must:

• Be distinguishable from other registered or reserved business names
• Include an appropriate designator:
  • For LLCs: “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
  • For Corporations: “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Inc.,” “Limited,” or “Company”
• Not imply a purpose other than what is permitted by law
• Not contain restricted words like “Bank,” “Engineer,” or “Insurance” without proper authorization
• Not include “Farmers’ Market” unless meeting specific legal definitions
• Not be the same as a government agency or political party

Name Reservation

If you find an available name but aren’t ready to register your business, you can reserve it for 120 days by:

1. Filing an Application for Reservation of Name through NH QuickStart
2. Paying the $15 reservation fee
3. Receiving confirmation of your reservation

What to Do After Your Business Entity Search

If Starting a New Business:

1. Reserve or Register Your Name: If available, either reserve the name or proceed with registration
2. Choose Your Business Structure: Determine whether an LLC, corporation, or other entity type is right for you
3. Register with the Secretary of State:
   • LLCs: File a Certificate of Formation ($100 fee)
   • Corporations: File Articles of Incorporation ($100 fee)
   • Other entities: File appropriate formation documents
4. Obtain an EIN: Apply for an Employer Identification Number from the IRS
5. Register for State Taxes: Register with the NH Department of Revenue Administration if required
6. Obtain Necessary Licenses: Check the NH Online Licensing page for industry-specific requirements

If Researching an Existing Business:

1. Verify Status: Confirm the business is in good standing
2. Request Documents: Obtain certified copies if needed for legal or business purposes
3. Contact Information: Use the registered agent information for official communications
4. Check Annual Reports: Review filing history to assess compliance history

Frequently Asked Questions About NH Business Entity Searches

What does “Active” status mean in New Hampshire?

Active status indicates that a business entity is current with its state filing requirements and authorized to conduct business in New Hampshire. This means the company has filed all required annual reports and paid any necessary fees.

How long does a business name reservation last in New Hampshire?

A business name reservation in New Hampshire lasts for 120 days from the date of filing. The reservation fee is $15, payable to the Secretary of State. This gives you exclusive rights to the name while you prepare your formation documents.

Can I search for a DBA (trade name) in New Hampshire?

Yes, trade names (DBAs) are searchable through the NH QuickStart portal. When viewing a business record, check the “Trade Name Information” section to see if they have registered any alternative names. You can also search specifically for trade names.

What are the filing fees for business entities in New Hampshire?

Formation filing fees in New Hampshire are typically $100 for most entity types, including LLCs and corporations. Annual report filing fees are also $100 ($102 if filing online due to a $2 service fee). Name reservations cost $15, and trade name registrations are $50.

What if my desired business name is taken in New Hampshire?

If your preferred name is already in use, you have several options:

1. Choose a different name that’s distinguishable from existing entities
2. Modify your name to make it distinguishable (adding words, changing spelling)
3. Consider using a trade name (DBA) for your public-facing identity
4. Contact the existing business to inquire about purchasing the name (if they’re inactive)

Can I check NH business entity records outside of business hours?

Yes, the NH QuickStart online portal is available 24/7 for searching business records. However, document requests and other services requiring staff assistance are only processed during regular business hours.

Next Steps After Checking Name Availability

Once you’ve completed your New Hampshire business entity search and confirmed your desired name is available, your next steps depend on your business goals:

New Hampshire LLC Formation

1. File a Certificate of Formation through NH QuickStart
2. Designate a registered agent with a physical NH address
3. Create an operating agreement (not filed with the state but important)
4. Apply for an EIN with the IRS
5. Check our Business Registration page for more information

New Hampshire Corporation Formation

1. File Articles of Incorporation through NH QuickStart
2. Designate a registered agent with a physical NH address
3. Create corporate bylaws
4. Issue stock certificates to shareholders
5. Hold initial corporate meetings
6. Visit our Registered Agent Services page for additional guidance

Registering a Trade Name (DBA)

1. Conduct a business entity search to ensure the trade name is available
2. Complete the Application for Registration of Trade Name
3. Submit the application online through NH QuickStart or by mail
4. Pay the $50 registration fee
5. Learn more on our Business Registration page

Resources for New Hampshire Businesses

• New Hampshire Secretary of State Corporations Division
• NH QuickStart Portal
• NH Department of Revenue Administration
• NH Small Business Development Center
• Business Registration Services at BusinessAnywhere.io
• Registered Agent Services at BusinessAnywhere.io
• BusinessAnywhere Blog

Conclusion

The New Hampshire Business Entity Search through the NH QuickStart portal is an invaluable tool for entrepreneurs, researchers, and anyone needing information about companies registered in the Granite State. By following this comprehensive guide, you can efficiently navigate the search process, understand the results, and take appropriate next steps whether you’re starting a new venture or conducting due diligence on an existing business.

Remember that while business entity searches are free, certain official documents and certificates require fees. Always verify critical information through official channels, and consider consulting with a business attorney or formation service for complex situations.

For more guidance on business formation and compliance in New Hampshire, explore our other resources at BusinessAnywhere.io.