How to Look Up an LLC in Arizona? (The Most Effective Way)

Published by Jon Morgan | Co-Founder & Chief Editor

Last updated: April 14, 2024

Methodology
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If you are planning to start a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and want to verify if your desired business entity name is available or simply need to search for one, I will walk you through the process of an Arizona business entity search.

I've worked with legal professionals and LLC specialists for over a decade, and I'll be providing you with my insights on the process of searching for a company in Arizona.

Read for links to relevant government websites and tips on how to make the search easier.

Quick Summary

How Do I Look Up an LLC in Arizona?

You can look up an LLC in Arizona by using the following methods:

• Search using the Secretary of State's website
• Search using the Corporation Commission website

In December 2023, as per the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there was a 5.3% increase in new business applications compared to the same month in the previous year [1]. This reflects a growing interest in starting businesses in the state, making it essential to check for the availability of your desired LLC name through these platforms.

1. Arizona Corporation Commission

The first step to conducting an Arizona business search is to go to the Arizona Corporation Commission's website [2]. On the homepage, you will see a bar near the top of the page. Enter the LLC name that you are looking up.

Once you have entered the LLC name, click on the "Name Search" button. This will take you to a results page to learn more about the LLC in question.

On the results page, you will see basic information about the LLC, including:

• The date it was formed
• Its current status
• Its filing number
• Its registered agent and address

You can also view documents related to the limited liability company by clicking on either the "View Name History" or "View Document Images" links.

If you need more information about looking up an LLC in Arizona, the ACC website also has a helpful FAQ section.

2. Arizona Secretary of State

You also go through a similar Arizona business entity search for an LLC name using the Secretary of State website. The business entity search process is the same, but you will be directed to a different results page.

On the Secretary of State's website, you can find:

• The LLC's formation date
• Its current status
• Whether it is in good standing
• Its file number

However, the documents that are available to view on the Secretary of State's website are different.

Instead of being able to view the business entity name history or scanned images of documents, you can access:

• A list of the LLC's officers and directors
• LLC Articles of organization
• Operating agreements (if applicable)

The Arizona business search process on the Secretary of State website can be accomplished by conducting any of the following:

a. Search by Name

Enter the name of the Arizona LLC on the Corporation Commission or Secretary of State website.

b. Search by Entity Number

The entity number is a unique code assigned to an LLC upon registration. Visit the Arizona Corporation Commission website and input the number in the search bar.

c. Search by Statutory Agent Name

You can find this information in the Arizona Corporation Commission's search function.

The LLC statutory agent is the person designated to receive the service of process on behalf of the limited liability company. It is important to establish a physical address to receive and forward documents for the LLC.

d. Search by Principal Name

You can search for an Arizona LLC name by entering the principal LLC name. Depending on the structure of the company, the principal may be the owner, member, or shareholder.

Keep in mind that Arizona businesses may have more than one member, but there must be at least one member listed on the public record.

3. Call the State

You can also call the Business Services Customer Service Center and talk with a person. This is the best way if you need LLC information urgently. The phone number is 602-542-6187.

Once, I needed immediate clarification on an LLC's status, so I decided to call the Business Services Customer Service Center. Speaking directly with a helpful representative was a surprisingly pleasant experience.

4. Send an Email

You can also use the contact form on the Arizona Secretary of State website, business division. I use this when I'm not in a rush, and it's a good way to get information if you aren't in a hurry. Make sure to be detailed in your query.

5. Other Business Entity Search Alternatives

Explore these additional avenues for a thorough investigation:

• Online Company Name Availability Tools: Utilize services on the internet that check if a business name can be registered and is available for use.
• Trademark Verification: Ensure the business name you're interested in isn't already trademarked in Illinois at the state level or nationally.
• Exploring Social Media: Look into companies on social media to understand their engagement and presence online.
• Utilizing Search Engines: Perform extensive searches to find details about a company's operations, media mentions, and publicly available records.
• Domain Name Availability Checks: Investigate whether your desired business name is available to be registered as a website domain, which helps maintain consistency across your online brand.

How to Check If A Business Name Is Trademarked in Arizona?

Checking if a business name is trademarked is crucial before you establish your brand to avoid legal issues and ensure your business name is unique. Here's how to conduct both federal and state-level trademark searches.

"Arizona does not provide a clear definition of a unique name. For clarification on what constitutes a distinguishable name for your LLC, consult the guidelines provided by the Arizona Secretary of State and the Arizona Corporation Commission."
-Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions

Federal Trademark Check (Through the USPTO)

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) offers a comprehensive database for checking trademarks across the entire United States. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the USPTO Website: Go to the official USPTO website and navigate to the "Trademarks" section.
2. Use the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS): The TESS system allows you to search through all registered trademarks and pending applications for trademarks.
3. Conduct Your Search: You can search by the business name, owner name, or trademark serial number. Use various combinations and spellings to ensure a thorough search.
4. Review the Results: The search results will show all trademarks that match your query. Review each entry to see if it's similar to the business name you're considering.
5. Understand the Status: Pay attention to the status of the trademark. "Live" means it's currently in use, while "Dead" indicates it's no longer in use.

State Trademark Check (SOT Website)

Each state has its own process for registering and searching for trademarks. Here's a general approach, using [state] as a placeholder for your specific state:

1. Find Your State's Trademark Office: This might be part of the Secretary of State's office or a separate entity. A quick web search for "[State] trademark search" should point you in the right direction.
2. Access the State's Trademark Database: Many states offer an online search tool for trademarks registered at the state level.
3. Perform Your Search: Enter the business name you're interested in. Similar to the federal search, try different variations to ensure a comprehensive search.
4. Analyze the Results: Look through the results for any trademarks that could conflict with your desired business name.
5. Check for Specific State Guidelines: Some states may have unique guidelines or additional steps for trademark search and registration. Make sure to review these to ensure you're following the correct procedure.

Reasons to Perform a Search

Here's why you need to perform an LLC search in Arizona:

• Avoid Legal Issues: Ensures your chosen business name or trademark doesn't infringe on existing trademarks, minimizing the risk of legal challenges and potential litigation.
• Brand Protection: Identifies potential conflicts early, allowing you to protect your brand and invest in marketing and branding efforts with confidence.
• Market Research: Provides insights into similar names or trademarks, offering a clearer understanding of the market and competition.
• Compliance with Registration Requirements: Ensures compliance with state and federal registration requirements, preventing future issues with trademark applications.
• Strategic Planning: Aids in strategic planning by identifying potential barriers to registering your trademark, allowing for informed decision-making.
• Avoid Rebranding Costs: Identifies potential trademark issues before they arise, avoiding the significant costs and efforts associated with rebranding.

As per Ibis World, the Real Estate and Rental and Leasing, Manufacturing, and Healthcare and Social Assistance sectors were major contributors to Arizona's GDP in 2023, accounting for a combined total of 38.2% [3]. Understanding the dominant industries can guide your LLC to be more aligned with state economic trends.

Related Articles:

• How to Dissolve an LLC in Arizona
• How to File LLC Articles of Organization in Arizona
• High-Quality LLC Formation Services in Arizona

FAQs

References:

1. https://www.uschamber.com/small-business/new-business-applications-a-state-by-state-view?state=az
2. https://ecorp.azcc.gov/EntitySearch/Index
3. https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/economic-profiles/arizona/