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How to Carry Out a North Carolina Business Entity Search

North Carolina Business Entity Search

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Did you know that North Carolina was named America’s Top State for Business in 2023? Not only that, but it was the second year in a row too.

When you look at the state’s economic achievements in 2023, anyone would be impressed. The combination of big names and talented workers makes North Carolina an amazing place for business, so if you’re looking for a home base, then this is it.

Already got a company name in mind? Then check if it’s free. Here’s how to carry out a North Carolina business entity search.

The Secretary of State is in charge of business registrations, so naturally, you’ll check with them.

On the website for the Secretary of State, click on “Business Entity Search.” Under “Select what you want to search,” you can pick:

  • Company
  • Registered agents
  • Company officials
  • Assumed business names

Next, under “Select how you want to search,” choose either “Starting with,” “Exact,” or “SOSID” (Secretary of State ID). Lastly, type in your query under “Searching for,” and then click on “Search.”

If there are any results, the next page will tell you. You’ll see the entity names, and under them, the page will list their SOSIDs, date formed, status, and type. There are various buttons available, including ones for:

  • Uploading PDF filings
  • Ordering documents online
  • Viewing document filings
  • Ordering annual reports

Curious about a particular company? Then click on its name.

Details on the entity page include its legal name, status, citizenship, fiscal month, annual report due date, and registered agent. You’ll also see its addresses, including mailing, registered office, and registered mailing addresses. Officers are listed too, if there are any.

Check Search Engine Results

Another free and easy way to do a North Carolina business search is to use Google or any other search engine. Type in your desired company name with “North Carolina” to see if any identical or similar results come up. You can narrow things down by entering a city name too, if relevant.

The great thing about this search method is that you can try different variations of your business name to cover your bases.

Use Our Name Availability Checker

You can perform an NC business entity search on our website too. Our business registration page has a search bar on top. Fill out your desired company name, pick LLC or corporation, and then click on “Check availability.”

Of course, you can also check out our services and prices first. We list them out clearly so there’s no confusion about what you pay and what you get.

Once you’re satisfied, proceed with the name search. If it’s available, you can opt to find out more about our services. Take a few seconds to fill out your personal information, and we’ll contact you soon.

The first thing you should do before starting your company is perform a North Carolina business entity search. This will tell you if you’re in the clear to proceed with your desired name. Plus, it’s free to do a State of North Carolina business entity search, so it doesn’t hurt to carry one out.

After you’re certain the name you want is free, consider using our business registration service. We’ll reduce your stress so you can look back on this time as a positive experience.
Sign up with Business Anywhere today to utilize our services. We’ll guide you through the business formation process so you won’t have to sweat it.

About Author

Picture of Rick Mak

Rick Mak

Rick Mak is a 30-year veteran businessman, having started, bought, and/or sold more than a dozen companies. He has bachelor's degrees in International Business, Finance, and Economics, with masters in both Entrepreneurship and International Law. He has spoken at hundreds of conferences around the world during his career on entrepreneurship, international tax law, asset protection, and company structure. Business Anywhere Editorial Guidelines

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