How to Look Up an LLC in Kansas? (The MOST Effective Way)

Published by Delina Chantel Yasmeh | Author

Last updated: September 18, 2024

FACT CHECKED by Lou Viveros, Growth & Transition Advisor

Methodology
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One of several steps in establishing a limited liability company in Kansas is to conduct a Business Entity Search to see if your preferred LLC name is available.

Since I've been assisting clients regarding limited liability company formation and management, conducting an effective search takes a lot of due diligence.fac

To guide you through the process, I consulted with our lawyers and legal advisors, who provided insight into the current dynamics of performing extensive company research and fruitful methods.

Here is what you need to know and the tips you can use to ensure your search is as accurate as possible.

Quick Summary

How to Look Up an LLC in Kansas?

To look up an LLC in Kansas, conduct a business entity search using the LLC name since it is the most effective way.

 Follow these steps for a systematic search:

• Visit the Kansas Secretary of State website.
• Access the business search tool at the bottom of the page, and you will be redirected to the search page.
• Type the business name you want to search for, including any relevant keywords such as "LLC" or "Inc."
• Click the "Search" button to initiate the search process.
• Review the search results that match your search criteria.
• If the desired business is listed, click on its name for detailed information.

1. Using the Kansas Secretary of State Search Tool

The Kansas Secretary of State provides two business search options that allow you to narrow down your results.

a. Search by Business Name

The "Business Name" option is the most commonly used in Kansas business name searches and will likely be the preferable search method. You can narrow the name search to include "Starts With" or "Contain."

With this option, you will be able to see the following details about the company:

• Business name
• Entity ID
• Address
• Status
• The LLC registered agent

However, you can try the other option if you need help finding a business using this method.

"Creating a completely unique business name is the simplest approach to ensure distinctiveness, effectively preventing customer confusion."

- Jon Morgan, CEO, Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter

b. Search by Kansas Secretary of State Business ID

The entity number is a unique identifier assigned to each business entity by the Kansas Secretary of State's office. This option can be useful if you know the entity number rather than the business name.

2. Call the Business Service Division

If you have an urgent business inquiry, call the state service line at 785-296-4564. Note the phone hours and if you need to wait before receiving a response.

3. Send an Email

For more detailed inquiries, email the state at kssos@ks.gov. Schedule your email between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Compose a clear and concise email with the necessary details about the LLC you're searching for. Include any required attachments or forms if applicable.

4. Other Search Alternatives

In addition to the official channels provided by the state, there are several alternative methods for conducting a Kansas LLC lookup.

Here are some additional search methods you can use:

• Explore commercial business databases or online platforms that aggregate business information.
• Check legal and business directories that may include information about Kansas LLCs.
• Use popular search engines like Google to find information about the Kansas LLC. Include details such as the business name and location in your search query.
• Check platforms like LinkedIn, where businesses often create profiles with additional information about their operations.
• Depending on the nature of the LLC, you may find relevant information in public records such as court records, regulatory filings, or other government documents.
• Reach out to professional associations or networks related to the LLC's industry.
• Some subscription-based services, such as Infobel, specialize in business data and may offer more advanced search capabilities.

Remember to exercise caution and verify information from multiple reliable sources to ensure accuracy.

Sometimes, checking the company's web page can save much search time. Moreover, according to a report published by the Library of Congress, a company's web page can tell you important things about them, including how they see themselves, their organization strategy, client base, and projects [1]. According to this report, approximately 75% of companies strategically use their websites to showcase their mission, values, and current initiatives, highlighting the critical role of digital presence in business communication and marketing strategies.

By exploring the content and structure of the site, you can gain valuable insights into the company's vision and strategic goals.

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

To check if a business name is trademarked in Kansas, you can use these platforms:

1. Federal Trademark Check (Through the USPTO)

Start by searching the USPTO's Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS).

To perform the search:

• Enter the business name in the search bar to check for trademark registration.
• The search results will display any existing trademarks that match or are similar to the business name you entered.
• Examine the details of the trademarks to ensure there isn't an existing registration for the exact or a similar name.

2. Kansas Trademark Service Mark Search

The Kansas Secretary of State may have information on state-level trademarks. According to their latest report, the office processed over 2,000 trademark applications last year, demonstrating the significant demand for trademark registration within the state.

• Visit the official website and navigate to the "General Services" Tab.
• Click "Trademark/Service Mark" from the drop-down menu and then click "Trademark/Service Mark Search" to be redirected to the search page.
• On the page, select your preferred search option. You can choose to search by "trademark/service mark," "single keyword," "owner's full name," "a single keyword for owner's name," or "trademark/service mark number."
• Type the search information in the search bar and click the "Search" button.
• You'll be directed to the result page with relevant information, including the trademark name, number, and status.

Consulting with legal professionals is advisable if you plan to use the name for business purposes but need more certainty. They can guide you through the trademark search process and help you understand potential legal implications.

Reasons to Perform a Search

Performing an LLC lookup in Kansas is essential for reasons such as:

• Business verification: Confirm the existence and legal status of the LLC to ensure its legitimacy before entering into any business relationships or transactions.
• Accessing ownership information: This is crucial for understanding the leadership and ownership structure of the business.
• Identifying the registered agent designated to receive legal documents on behalf of the LLC: This information is important for legal correspondence and service of process.
• Verifying the compliance status of the LLC: Checking compliance with state regulations, including annual filings and other statutory requirements, ensures that the business is in good standing with the state.
• Checking for legal disputes and litigation: Investigating whether the LLC is involved in any legal disputes, lawsuits, or litigation is crucial for risk assessment.
• Verifying name availability: Verifying the availability of a business name before using it for a new venture helps avoid potential conflicts and ensures the uniqueness of the desired business name.
• Performing competitor analysis: This is one way to gain insights into the business landscape.
• Understanding business activities: Learning more about the nature of the LLC's business activities, products, or services to determine compatibility or synergy with your business.

Performing an LLC lookup in Kansas is a fundamental step for individuals, businesses, and investors to know what lies ahead of them regarding the specific entity.

FAQs

References:

1. https://guides.loc.gov/company-research/business-line