How to Look Up an LLC in Maine? (Simple Guide)

Delina Chantel Yasmeh
Published by Delina Chantel Yasmeh | Author
Last updated: October 18, 2024
FACT CHECKED by Lou Viveros, Growth & Transition Advisor
Methodology
We meticulously research and verify the information presented in our articles. By consulting reliable sources and ensuring factual accuracy, we are committed to providing readers with well-informed, trustworthy content.

If you want to start an LLC in Maine to check the availability of your desired LLC name or simply need to find a specific company or service, you have to conduct a Maine LLC name search.

As a seasoned business consultant with expertise in limited liability companies, including Maine, I have conducted extensive research on this topic.

I will provide you with a comprehensive guide based on the expertise of our team of attorneys and legal advisors. We have also determined the most effective method for conducting a Maine business name search.

Quick Summary

  • To look up an LLC in Maine, utilize the Maine Secretary of State's official site and its business entity search tool.
  • The search can be performed by entering a partial name or the charter number of the LLC to access details like business name, entity status, and registered agent.
  • According to the 2023 report by the Maine Secretary of State, monthly searches for business entities exceed 10,000, underscoring its importance in averting state-level trademark infringements.
  • In my experience, conducting an LLC lookup is essential for verifying name availability, avoiding legal complications with trademarks, and ensuring legal compliance with Maine's business regulations.


How Do I Look Up an LLC in Maine?

A man looking up an LLC in Maine

To look up an LLC in Maine, the most effective method would be to use the Maine Secretary of State's database, call the office, or draft an email with the inquiries.

Here are the options to choose from:

1. Utilize the Secretary of State's Website

The Maine Secretary of State's website is the cornerstone for anyone looking to conduct an LLC search.

This online resource is designed to offer comprehensive data on registered business entities within the state.

Ensure the availability of your desired Maine LLC name by following these steps:

  1. Visit the Maine Secretary of State's website.
  2. Utilize the Maine business entity search feature provided by the Maine Secretary of State site by entering and choosing to either search by name or by charter number.
  3. If you searched by name, click on a specific business name from the search results to access the information summary page.
  4. On the information summary page, gather essential details about the selected LLC, such as its charter number, filing type, registered agent information, business address, and filing history.

Here are Maine Secretary of State's website search options:

a. Keyword from Name to be Searched

To begin your search, you can use the "Keyword from name to be searched" field.

This option allows you to enter a partial or full name of the LLC you're interested in.

It's a flexible method that helps in identifying businesses that match your search criteria, even if you only know a portion of the LLC's name.

b. Charter Number

If you have the specific charter number of the LLC, you can enter it into the "Charter number" field.

This number is a unique identifier assigned to each business entity by the Maine Secretary of State.

Searching by charter number will directly bring up the entity you're looking for, making it a quick and efficient way to access detailed information about a specific LLC.

2. Call the State

Two coworkers discussing in front of a laptop

For immediate assistance or when online resources are insufficient, contacting the Maine Secretary of State's office by phone at 207-624-7752 is highly effective.

This direct line to the Division of Corporations, UCC & Commissions Reporting and Information Section offers real-time support for inquiries related to business names, LLC filings, and procedural questions about business entities in Maine.

It's recommended to prepare all relevant information before calling to facilitate an efficient conversation.

"You can contact the Maine Secretary of State's office for inquiries on the availability of your LLC name and assistance with utilizing the Maine Business Name Search tool."

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

3. Send an Email

Email correspondence is a valuable tool for addressing detailed questions or requesting specific documents not readily available on a website.

It allows for clear communication and provides a record for future reference. The Maine Secretary of State's office can handle a wide range of email inquiries, including those about starting an LLC or complex legal matters.

Emails should be sent to CCD.Corps@maine.gov, the official address for the Division of Corporations. This inbox is regularly checked by staff who aim to provide prompt and accurate responses.

When emailing, include all necessary details and specific questions to receive the most comprehensive answers.

4. Other Business Entity Search Alternatives

Expanding your search beyond official channels can uncover additional layers of information about an LLC:

  1. Social Media: Businesses often share updates, news, and contact information on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
  2. Search Engines: A simple Google search can lead to news articles, reviews, and other public records.
  3. Business Directories: Websites like Yelp, Better Business Bureau, and local directories offer insights and consumer feedback.
  4. Local Chamber of Commerce: These organizations can provide records of local businesses, including networking events where you can learn more about them.
  5. Professional Networking Sites: LinkedIn profiles and company pages can reveal the executives behind the LLC, its history, and industry connections.

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

Trademark showing on the screen

Ensuring that your chosen business name isn't already trademarked is a critical step in the formation of your LLC or any business entity in Maine.

This process helps avoid legal complications and ensures that your business name is unique and compliant with both federal and state trademark laws [1]. According to a study published in the Journal of Business History, nearly 60% of legal disputes among businesses can be traced back to conflicts over trademark issues, underscoring the importance of thorough trademark searches in the business formation process.

Here's a detailed guide on how to check if a business name is trademarked in Maine:

1. Conduct a Search Through the USPTO Database for Federal Trademarks

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) maintains a comprehensive database of registered trademarks and pending trademark applications.

Searching for the USPTO's Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) is the first step in ensuring that your desired business name or a similar one hasn't been federally trademarked.

This search will reveal if any conflicts with national trademarks could potentially hinder your ability to use your chosen name.

2. Check the Maine Secretary of State's Website for State-Specific Trademarks

After checking for federal trademarks, the next step is to ensure that your business name is not already in use or trademarked within the state of Maine.

The Maine Secretary of State's office provides resources for searching business entity names, which can help identify potential conflicts with existing businesses or trademarks registered at the state level. According to the Maine Department of the Secretary of State's 2023 report, over 10,000 business entity searches are conducted monthly, highlighting the critical role of this resource in preventing trademark infringement at the state level.

You can conduct this search by visiting the Maine Secretary of State's Corporate Name Search page.

This search is crucial because a name can be in use or trademarked within Maine, even if it's not registered as a federal trademark.

3. Consulting with a Trademark Attorney for Comprehensive Search and Advice

While online searches are a good starting point, they may not capture all potential conflicts, especially those that could arise from common law trademarks.

Consulting with a trademark attorney can provide a more comprehensive search and nuanced advice.

An attorney can help navigate the complexities of trademark law, including assessing the risk of potential conflicts and advising on the likelihood of successful trademark registration.

They can also assist with the trademark application process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and maximizing the chances of securing your business name as a registered trademark.

A person writing while calling someone

As a Maine entrepreneur, it is important to perform a business search for the following reasons:

  • Before establishing your business, it's essential to ensure that your desired name is not already taken by another entity in Maine.
  • Infringement can lead to legal disputes, financial liabilities, and the requirement to rebrand.
  • A search ensures that your business name complies with the Maine naming regulations, including restrictions on certain words and phrases.
  • Conducting a thorough search is part of the due diligence process, especially important if you're purchasing an existing business or looking for potential partnerships.
  • You can perform a search to reveal competitors and help you understand the market landscape.
  • By checking for existing trademarks, you can take steps to protect your brand's intellectual property, potentially by registering your own trademark.

Related Articles:

FAQs

Can An LLC Business Name Be Reserved In Maine?

An LLC business name can be reserved in Maine. To do this, you'll need to file a Name Reservation Request form which is available on the Secretary of State's website.

What Should I Do if My Desired Business Name Is Already Trademarked?

If your desired business name is already trademarked consider modifying the name to avoid infringement issues, or consult a trademark attorney to explore your options, including negotiating with the trademark holder.

How Do I Change My Business Name in Maine?

You can change your business name in Maine by filing an amendment document with the Secretary of State in person or by mail.


Reference:

  1. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00076791.2018.1497765

About The Author

Author
Delina Chantel Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, specializes in Mergers and Acquisitions at Deloitte and PwC, managing billion-dollar transactions. Educated in Accountancy at California State University and holding advanced degrees from Loyola Law School, she is highly skilled in tax law. Delina also dedicates time to pro bono work for women and children.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Growth & Transition Advisor
LJ Viveros has 40 years of experience in founding and scaling businesses, including a significant sale to Logitech. He has led Market Solutions LLC since 1999, focusing on strategic transitions for global brands. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in Communications, LJ is also a distinguished Matsushita Executive alumnus.
Learn more about our editorial policy

You May Also Like

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *