Are you planning to start a business in Oklahoma? Whether you’re forming an LLC, corporation, or simply checking if your desired business name is available, conducting a business entity search is an essential first step in your entrepreneurial journey. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of using the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s Business Entity Search tool, helping you avoid common pitfalls and ensuring a smooth business formation experience.
What is the Oklahoma Secretary of State Business Entity Search Tool?
The Oklahoma Secretary of State’s Business Entities Search is the official database containing records of all registered businesses in the state. This powerful tool allows you to search for existing businesses, verify name availability, check business status, and access important information about registered entities in Oklahoma.
Why You Need to Use the Oklahoma Business Entity Search
Before filing any business formation documents, it’s crucial to confirm your desired business name is available. Here’s why this search matters:
- Prevent rejected filings: The Oklahoma Secretary of State will reject your formation documents if your chosen name is already taken or too similar to an existing business
- Save time and money: Name rejections cause delays and may incur additional fees for resubmissions
- Avoid potential trademark issues: Finding a unique name helps prevent future legal complications
- Ensure legal compliance: Oklahoma law requires your business name to be “distinguishable” from other registered entities
How to Access the Oklahoma Business Entity Search Portal
The Business Entity Search tool is accessible through the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s official website. Here’s how to find it:
- Visit the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s website at www.sos.ok.gov
- Navigate to the “Business Services” section
- Select “Business Entity Search” from the dropdown menu
- You’ll be redirected to the business search page where you can begin your search
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Oklahoma Business Entity Search
Basic Search Option
For a simple name search:
- On the main search page, you’ll see a search field labeled “Entity Name”
- Enter your desired business name (you don’t need to include designators like “LLC” or “Inc.” at this stage)
- Click the “Search” button
- Review the list of results that appear below the search field
Advanced Search Options
For more targeted searches, click the “Advanced Search” link below the search box to access additional search options:
- Name Availability Search: Specifically checks if your desired name is available for registration
- Click “Name Availability” from the search type options
- Enter your proposed business name
- Click “Search”
- If no results appear, your name may be available
- Filing Number Search: Find a specific business using its state-assigned filing number
- Select “Filing Number” from the search options
- Enter the 10-digit filing number
- Click “Search”
- Registered Agent Search: Find businesses associated with a particular registered agent
- Select “Registered Agent” from the search options
- Specify whether the agent is a business or individual
- Enter the agent’s name
- Click “Search”
- Name of Person Search: Search for businesses associated with a specific individual
- Select “Name of Person” from the search options
- Enter the person’s first, middle, and/or last name
- Click “Search”
Understanding Search Results
After performing your search, you’ll see a list of matching business entities. Each result includes:
- Filing Number: A unique 10-digit identifier assigned by the Secretary of State
- Entity Name: The official registered name of the business
- Entity Type: Whether it’s an LLC, corporation, limited partnership, etc.
- Name Type: Indicates if it’s the legal name or a trade name
- Status: Shows whether the business is active, inactive, cancelled, etc.
Viewing Detailed Business Information
To access more information about a specific business:
- Click on the blue hyperlinked filing number next to the business name
- The business details page will display:
- Business identification details (filing number, entity name, type)
- Formation date and jurisdiction
- Registered agent information
- Current business status
- Filing history
For a fee of $5, you can access additional details by clicking “View Entity Detail” and providing your contact information.
Understanding Oklahoma Business Status Labels
When reviewing search results, you’ll notice various status labels. Here’s what they mean:
- Active: The business is properly registered and in good standing
- Inactive: The business is no longer operating or has failed to file required reports
- Cancelled: The business has been administratively terminated, often due to:
- Failure to file annual certificates
- Non-payment of fees or taxes
- Voluntary dissolution
- Expired: The business registration has lapsed
- Suspended: The business operations have been temporarily halted by state authorities
Oklahoma Business Name Requirements and Restrictions
When selecting a business name in Oklahoma, be aware of these requirements:
LLC Naming Requirements
- Must contain the words “Limited Liability Company” or “Limited Company” or the abbreviations “LLC,” “LC,” “L.L.C.,” or “L.C.”
- The abbreviations “LTD” for “limited” and “CO” for “company” are permitted
- Cannot include terms that could misrepresent the business as a financial institution or government agency
- Must be distinguishable from all other registered business names
Corporation Naming Requirements
- Must include “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” or an abbreviation such as “Corp.,” “Inc.,” “Co.”
- Cannot imply the business is organized for purposes other than those stated in its articles of incorporation
- Must be distinguishable from other registered names
What Makes a Name “Distinguishable” in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma’s Secretary of State doesn’t consider the following changes sufficient to make a name distinguishable:
- Different punctuation or spaces
- Using “the” at the beginning of the name
- Different spellings of the same word
- Different business designators (e.g., “LLC” vs. “Inc.”)
- Adding or removing filler words like “and” or “of”
Reserving Your Oklahoma Business Name
If you find an available name but aren’t ready to form your business, you can reserve it:
- File an Application for Reservation of Name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State
- Pay the $10 filing fee
- Your name will be reserved for 60 days
- The reservation can be renewed or transferred to another person if needed
You can file your name reservation:
- Online: Through the Secretary of State’s Entity Filings page (fastest option)
- By Mail: Send your application to Oklahoma Secretary of State, 421 N.W. 13th St., Suite 210, Oklahoma City, OK 73103
- In Person: Visit the Secretary of State’s office during business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday)
What to Do After Your Oklahoma Business Entity Search
If Your Desired Name is Available
Once you’ve confirmed your business name is available, you can proceed with:
- Forming your business entity:
- For an LLC: File Articles of Organization ($100 filing fee plus 4% processing fee for online filings)
- For a Corporation: File a Certificate of Incorporation ($50-$100 filing fee depending on type)
- Processing time: 1-2 business days for online filings, up to 2 weeks for mail filings
- Registering a trade name (DBA):
- If you want to operate under a name different from your legal business name
- File a Trade Name Report ($25 filing fee)
- Effective for one year from the filing date
- Checking domain availability:
- Verify if a matching domain name is available for your website
- Use domain registrars like GoDaddy or Namecheap to search and register domains
If Your Desired Name is Already Taken
If your search reveals your desired name is unavailable, you have several options:
- Choose a different name that’s unique and reflects your business
- Modify your original name to make it “distinguishable” under Oklahoma law
- Contact the existing business if it appears inactive or expired to inquire about name acquisition
- Consult with a business attorney for advice on naming alternatives
Oklahoma Business Registration Fees and Requirements
Formation Costs
- LLC Formation: $100 filing fee (plus 4% online processing fee = $104 total)
- Corporation Formation: $50-$100 depending on corporation type
- Name Reservation: $10 for 60 days
- Trade Name (DBA) Registration: $25
- Foreign Entity Registration: $300 (plus 4% online processing fee = $312 total)
Ongoing Requirements and Fees
- Annual Certificate: $25 for LLCs (due on your formation anniversary)
- Annual Franchise Tax: Required for corporations (franchise tax to be eliminated beginning tax year 2025)
- Registered Agent: Must maintain a registered agent with a physical Oklahoma address
Additional Potential Costs
- Business Licenses: Varies by industry and location
- Sales Tax Permit: $20 for first location, $10 for each additional location (if selling products)
- Certificate of Good Standing: $20 (needed for various business transactions)
- Document Copies: $5 for standard copies of business documents
Frequently Asked Questions About Oklahoma Business Entity Searches
How often is the Oklahoma business entity database updated?
The Oklahoma Secretary of State updates the database in real-time as new businesses register and existing businesses file changes or annual reports.
What does “OTC suspension” mean in the search results?
An “OTC suspension” indicates the business has been suspended by the Oklahoma Tax Commission, typically due to failure to pay taxes or file required tax returns.
Can I get a refund if my business filing is rejected?
No, filing fees are non-refundable even if your filing is rejected. This is why conducting a thorough business entity search before filing is so important.
How long does a name reservation last in Oklahoma?
Name reservations in Oklahoma last for 60 days from the filing date and can be renewed for additional 60-day periods by paying the $10 fee again.
Can I search for businesses by owner name?
Yes, you can search by an individual’s name using the “Name of Person” search option in the advanced search section.
What information can I access for free vs. what requires payment?
Free information includes basic business details like name, filing number, entity type, status, and registered agent. More detailed information, including filing documents, requires a $5 fee.
Tips for a Successful Oklahoma Business Entity Search
- Try various spellings of your desired name, as the search is not always forgiving of typos
- Use fewer words in your search for broader results
- Remove business designators like “LLC” or “Inc.” from your search terms
- Check inactive businesses too, as status can sometimes change
- Use the advanced search options for more targeted results
- Call the Secretary of State with questions at (405) 521-3912 if you’re unsure about search results
Ready to Form Your Oklahoma Business?
After conducting your business entity search and confirming your name is available, you’re ready to establish your business in Oklahoma. Remember these key steps:
- Choose your business structure (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.)
- File the appropriate formation documents with the Oklahoma Secretary of State
- Obtain necessary business licenses and permits
- Register for an EIN with the IRS for tax purposes
- Create an operating agreement (for LLCs) or bylaws (for corporations)
- Set up business banking accounts to keep personal and business finances separate
Resources
Oklahoma Business Entity Search Tools
Oklahoma Business Resources
- Oklahoma Department of Commerce
- Oklahoma Small Business Development Center
- Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce
Other State Business Entity Search Guides
- How to Do a Business Entity Search in Texas
- How to Do a Business Entity Search in Kansas
- How to Do a Business Entity Search in Colorado
- How to Do a Business Entity Search in Arkansas
- How to Do a Business Entity Search in Missouri
- How to Do a Business Entity Search in New Mexico
Conducting a thorough business entity search is the crucial first step in establishing your Oklahoma business. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to navigate the process with confidence, ensure your chosen business name is available, and move forward with your entrepreneurial goals. The Oklahoma Secretary of State’s Business Entity Search tool is your gateway to making informed decisions about your business formation and compliance in the Sooner State.
