Search Ohio business names using the Secretary of State business search webpage to verify if a name is reserved or registered in the state. Entities are required to provide an eligible available business name when registering with the state. The search page can also be used to look up known businesses by entity name, agent, owner, prior name, or number.
Business Entity Search
1. Go to the Ohio Business Search Webpage
2. Select Business Search Type
Select the Business Search type. The options are:
- Business Name
- Exact Business Name
- Prior Business Name
- Agent/Registrant
- Organizer/Incorporator
- Number Search
For this example, Business Name was selected.
3. Perform Business Name Search
Below the Business Name field, one of the following options can be selected:
- All
- Active
- Cancelled
- Dead
- Fraudulent
Enter the Business Name and click SEARCH to view the search results.
4. View Search Results
The SEARCH RESULTS will appear below the search field. Each result will display its Entity #, Name, Type, Filing Date, Expiration Date, Status, Location, County, and State.
Clicking on the SHOW DETAILS button for an individual result will open its business information in a new window.
5. View Business Information
The Business Information page will display the following:
- Entity #
- Business Name
- Filing Type
- Status
- Original Filing Date
- Expiration Date
- Agent/Registrant Information
- A list of all Filings
- Prior Business Names
