How do I check if a business name is available?

How to Check Business Name Availability in Georgia

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

Steps to Verify Business Name Availability

• Use the Georgia Corporations Division Online Search: Visit the Georgia Secretary of State’s Corporations Division website. Their online database allows you to search existing business names quickly.
• Conduct a Name Search: Enter your proposed business name in the search tool to check for identical or similar names already registered. The system will display all active and inactive business entities with matching or close names.
• Consider Name Requirements: Ensure your business name complies with Georgia naming rules, such as including required entity designators (e.g., LLC, Inc.) and avoiding restricted words.
• Reserve the Name (Optional): If your desired name is available, you can reserve it with the Georgia Secretary of State for up to 30 days by filing a name reservation request and paying the applicable fee.

Operational Considerations

• Check Domain Name Availability: For online presence, verify domain name availability that matches your business name to streamline branding.
• Trademark Search: Consider checking the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office database to avoid infringing on federally registered trademarks.
• Recordkeeping: Keep records of your name search and reservation confirmations for future reference during business registration and licensing.

As of 2026, regularly verify the Georgia Secretary of State’s website for updates to the name search process or related fees.