Illinois Business Name Search

Getting Started

Before searching the Illinois Business Name Database, you can save time by making sure your business name is unique and distinguishable from other existing business entities. Try using our business name generator below to get some name ideas for your business.

Generate Business Name Ideas

Search business name availability

After you’ve come up with some name ideas for your business, you’ll want to take a look into businesses that already exist. Luckily, on the Secretary of State website, you’ll find a handy search feature that allows you to take a look through LLCs and Corporations by name.

If you have questions about the process or want a more personal experience, you can also call or email the Business Services department as well.

Another option you can select is to send in a Corporate Name Availability Inquiry Form. This will allow the Business Services department to look into their records and check for your desired name. Keep in mind that this process will take longer than doing a quick search yourself, but some may prefer the deeper check into name availability.

Illinois Secretary of State Office

Website: https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com

Phone: (312) 793 – 3380

Email: Messages can be sent through the Business Services Contact Form

Hours: 8am – 4:30pm, Monday – Friday

Registering your business Domain/website

Don’t make the mistake of forgetting to check if the domain name is available for your business. The last thing you want is to register your business name and find out another competitor or company already has a website with your name! Use our domain check below to instantly check availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You'll be able to find filing options for reserving your name in different locations, depending on the type of business you're planning to create. For corporations, the BCA 4.10 form will be needed, while LLC businesses will require the LLC-1.15 form. Make sure that you use the correct form for your company type!

Useful information:

- Both of these name reservation forms require a $25.00 name reservation application fee.

- When the application is approved, your name will be reserved for 90 days, allowing you to get through more of your paperwork without worry for someone else taking the name you've selected.

When you're completing a name reservation form, there are some key pieces of information you'll need. Having this information prepared will allow you to have an easier time getting through the form.

Important information will include:

-A $25.00 fee in the form of a money order or check

- The name or names you wish to reserve

- Name and address of the applicant

- The date and signature of the applicant

(Source: LLC-1.15 Form)

In some cases, you may find that your business name is already in use. Typically, the easiest solution for this issue is to come up with a new, unique name. There are a number of reasons why this is a good idea, including the recognition of customers. When customers or potential customers see the name, they should only think of your company, otherwise they may get confused!

That said, there are ways you may be able to keep your name as close to the ideal as possible. To find out what your options are, it's a good idea to call, email or visit the Business Services department. There, you can be guided toward to best option for your company.

If you're still unable to find a business name that suits you, try using our business name generator to get unique name ideas (click here to find our business name generator).

Author

Matija Kolaric

Amazing content is the core of what we do. With more than 5 years of experience in branding, name development, and business, Matija helps create and manage content production.

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