Pennsylvania Business Name Search

Getting Started

Before searching the Pennsylvania Business Name Database, you can save time by making sure your business name is unique and distinguishable from other existing business entities within the Pennsylvania business name database. We suggest coming with a few name ideas in-mind incase any are unavailable, you can also download the full Pennsylvania entity name guidelines here (click here to download)

Generate Business Name Ideas

Search business name availability

Contacting the local Secretary of State (SOS) office via Phone or Email is free and is the most reliable way to check your business name availability.

Online, you can search for Pennsylvania businesses entities for free via the Pennsylvania Department of State website. You can choose between one-word or a phrase search. The database can also be explored solely for names that are currently in active registration. Set the filters you’re interested in before moving forward with the search.

Pennsylvania Department of State

Website: https://www.dos.pa.gov/

Phone: ((717) 787-1057

Email: RA-CORPS@pa.gov

Hours: 8am – 5pm, 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)

The Pennsylvania Government has dedicated a special website to offering registration, licensing and renewal services to corporate entities in the state.

Useful information:

- You will need to create an account in the business portal to move forward with the registration.

- In Pennsylvania, you can also register a fictitious business name if you choose to do so.

- Certain types of businesses may have to do a special registration. More information about the requirements is available here.

To register your business name, you'll need to prepare and file a document with the following details:

- A Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN).

- Proof of a registered business structure in the state of Pennsylvania.

- A fictitious name registration (when applicable).

- Local licensed, evidence you meet zoning requirements, special permits that depend on the industry you intend to operate in.

The good news is that the Pennsylvania business registration portal provides all the necessary forms and information of the steps you will have to go through. If you're finding it difficult to complete the process, you can seek assistance here.

A business name will have to meet certain requirements in order to be registered. In Pennsylvania, you will need a business name that is distinguishable from the titles already on record.

Apart from checking the local business database, it's also a good idea to check for trademarks. Trademark infringement could lead to complicated legal procedures, significant expenditure and even fines for your business.

Even if you can register a form of the title you are interested in, it's still best to conceptualize a business name that is bold, bright and original. You will benefit from an easily recognizable brand identity and more effective marketing efforts this way.

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).

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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