How do I check if a business name is available?

How to Check Business Name Availability in Arizona

Before registering your business in Arizona, it is essential to verify that your desired business name is available. This step helps avoid conflicts with existing businesses and ensures compliance with state naming requirements.

Steps to Check Business Name Availability

• Use the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) Name Search Tool: Visit the ACC website and use their online name availability search. This tool allows you to check if your proposed business name is already in use by a corporation, LLC, or limited partnership.
• Review Naming Rules: Ensure your business name complies with Arizona naming conventions, such as avoiding restricted words and including required entity designators like "LLC" or "Inc."
• Check Trade Name Availability: If you plan to operate under a trade name (also called a DBA), search the Arizona Secretary of State’s trade name database to confirm the name is not already registered.

Additional Operational Considerations

• Reserve Your Business Name: If your name is available but you are not ready to register your business, the ACC allows you to reserve the name for a limited time by filing a Name Reservation Request and paying the applicable fee.
• Recordkeeping: Keep documentation of your name search and reservation for future reference during business registration and licensing processes.
• Licensing and Permits: Some local licenses or permits may require your business name to be registered or verified separately; check with city or county offices as needed.

As of 2026, regularly verify name availability before filing to avoid delays in business registration and licensing in Arizona.