New York Business Entity Search (Department of State)
Use the New York Department of State database to find corporations, LLCs, limited partnerships, and other covered entities, including certain assumed-name filings.
Official website: apps.dos.ny.gov · Opens in a new tab
How to search New York business records
Choose a search type
Use Search By to select the identifier you have, then enter the name or ID in the next field.
Set the matching and entity filters
For a name search, choose the matching method in Search Functionality, such as begins with or contains. Check the status filter and Entity List so you do not exclude the record you need.
Run the database search
Select Search the Database and review the matching entity. Keep the DOS ID with the legal name so later document requests refer to the same record.
What to watch for
New York expressly says this database should not be used to determine whether a proposed entity name is acceptable. A search with no match is not name approval.
Walkthrough sources · Checked
New York search options and record coverage
New York's public inquiry database searches corporations, LLCs, LPs, LLPs, and assumed entities by entity name or DOS ID and shows status, service-of-process address, registered agent information where applicable, filing history, and associated names. Name availability, certificates, copies, and online filing are separate services. Public records do not provide a universal owner-name search; inspect annual reports and formation documents for management information.
Checking a business name in New York
New York requires a name to be distinguishable from existing and reserved names and imposes restricted-word and designator rules. Punctuation, capitalization, spacing, generic terms, or a suffix may not cure similarity. Department acceptance is not trademark clearance and does not satisfy county assumed-name, publication, or professional licensing requirements.
New York name reservations
New York corporation and LLC name reservation costs $20.00. The reservation duration and extensions depend on entity type and form. Reservation is optional filing priority and does not clear trademarks, assumed names, publication, professional restrictions, or local licensing.
DBA, trade names, and fictitious names
New York assumed-name certificates are filed with the Department of State for corporations, LLCs, and other entities using a name different from the legal name; use https://dos.ny.gov/corporations. Sole proprietors and partnerships generally file business certificates with the county clerk. State and county fees/renewals vary, and an assumed name does not create a new entity.
What do you need after the search?
- Official proof of standing — find certificate fees and ordering instructions.
- A missed report or inactive registration — check deadlines and reinstatement rules.
- A new business registration — compare New York formation and filing fees.