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

Delina Chantel Yasmeh
Published by Delina Chantel Yasmeh | Author
Last updated: February 15, 2025
Methodology
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If you are establishing a New Hampshire LLC and looking for an available name, or you are simply searching for information on a particular service or business, you should conduct a New Hampshire business search.

With over a decade of practice as a business consultant for limited liability companies and thorough research on the ways you could look up an LLC, I’ll provide you with an in-depth guide and all the necessary information you need.

I consulted with our legal advisors and attorneys to ensure accurate legal information.

Quick Summary

  • To look up an LLC in New Hampshire, utilize the Secretary of State's website using various criteria such as business name, entity ID, and registered agent.
  • Other methods for performing an LLC lookup include calling the state's office or emailing for detailed inquiries.
  • According to the New Hampshire Secretary of State's office, around 90% of businesses in the state opt to register their business names locally for presence and protection.
  • In my experience, conducting an LLC search is essential for verifying business legitimacy, ensuring no trademark infringement, and assessing potential business collaborations.


How Do I Look Up an LLC in New Hampshire?

A woman looking up an LLC in New Hampshire on laptop

You can look up an LLC by visiting the New Hampshire Secretary of State's database, calling the office,, or emailing them.

Here is how you can go about each method:

1. Use the Secretary of State's Website

The New Hampshire Secretary of State's website is a comprehensive resource for conducting LLC searches. It offers a user-friendly interface and detailed information about registered businesses in the state.

To find detailed information about a specific business, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the New Hampshire Secretary of State's Business Search page.
  2. Choose the type of search you wish to perform (Business Name, Business ID, Filing Number, or Registered Agent).
  3. Enter your search criteria in the provided field.
  4. Select the search type from "Starts With," "Exact Match," "Contains," or "All Words."
  5. Review the search results for the desired information.
  6. Explore the detailed information page for that business entity. You can view the LLC name, formation date, contact information, registered agent details, filing history, and principal address.

Each search method offers a unique approach to finding information about LLCs in New Hampshire:

a. Business Name

This method allows you to search for an LLC using its name. It's useful for verifying the existence of a business or for preliminary research on a company.

You can refine your search based on how the name starts, exactly matches, contains, or uses all words in the name.

"The search for business names in New Hampshire does not differentiate based on case sensitivity, meaning the use of uppercase or lowercase letters does not impact the search outcomes."

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

b. Business ID

Searching by Business ID is a direct way to find specific details about an LLC. This unique identifier helps in quickly locating the exact business profile you're interested in.

c. Filing Number

The Filing Number search is particularly useful for tracking specific documents or changes in the LLC. It's a precise method for accessing particular filings.

d. Registered Agent

Searching by the Registered Agent's name can reveal all LLCs associated with a particular agent. This is beneficial for understanding the agent's business network or due diligence in legal matters.

2. Call the State

Dialing the telephone to contact the IRS

Direct communication with the state office can clarify complex queries or guide on specific LLC-related issues.

Calling the New Hampshire Secretary of State's office allows immediate assistance and the opportunity to ask follow-up questions in real time.

It's particularly useful for urgent matters or when seeking clarification on procedural steps. The staff can guide you through searching for LLC information or resolving any issues you might encounter.

To get in touch, you can call the New Hampshire Secretary of State's office at (603) 271-3246.

3. Send an Email

Email inquiries are suitable for detailed questions or when documentation is required.

This method is ideal for non-urgent queries or submitting specific information or documents as part of your inquiry.

For email inquiries, you can contact the office at business@sos.nh.gov.

4. Other Business Entity Search Alternatives

While the official methods provide direct and reliable information, there are also unofficial ways to gather insights about an LLC.

You may use the following:

  • Social Media Platforms: Platforms like LinkedIn can provide insights into the company's activities and key personnel.
  • Search Engines: A general web search can yield news articles, official websites, and other relevant information about the LLC.
  • Industry-Specific Databases: These can offer detailed insights, especially for specialized sectors.
  • Local Business Directories: Useful for understanding the company's local presence and reputation.
  • Networking Events: Engaging with industry peers can provide anecdotal and firsthand information about the LLC.

How to Check If A Business Name Is Trademarked in New Hampshire?

To check if a business name is trademarked in New Hampshire, search the USPTO database, visit the state's database, or consult a trademark attorney.

Before establishing your brand, it is crucial to ensure the name chosen is unique and doesn't infringe on existing trademarks [1]. According to the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration, as of January 2022, approximately 80% of businesses in the state registered their business names with the Secretary of State's office to safeguard their intellectual property rights.

Checking against federally registered trademarks also avoids legal complications and ensures your business name stands out.

Here's how you can check if a business name is trademarked in New Hampshire:

1. Search the USPTO Database

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

This database allows you to search for registered trademarks and pending trademark applications across the United States, including New Hampshire.

You can use various search strategies, from simple to complex, depending on the uniqueness of the business name you're researching.

It's important to look for names that are identical and similar enough to confuse, as these could potentially conflict with your intended business name.

2. New Hampshire State Database

Although trademarks are registered at the federal level through the USPTO, it's wise to check the New Hampshire state database for business registrations.

Visit the New Hampshire Secretary of State's Business Search to see if the business name is used or registered within the state. According to the New Hampshire Secretary of State's office, approximately 90% of businesses in the state choose to register their business names locally to establish their presence and protect their interests.

While this won't reveal trademarked names, it helps identify businesses that may not have federal trademarks but could still pose conflicts within the state.

3. Consult with a Trademark Attorney

Trademark law can be complex, and similar names in different industries can sometimes coexist without issue.

Consulting with a trademark attorney can provide comprehensive insights and legal advice tailored to your situation.

An attorney can help interpret search results, assess the risk of infringement, and advise on the likelihood of trademark registration success.

They can also assist with the trademark application process, ensuring that your business name complies with all legal requirements and is adequately protected.

Here are several key reasons why you need to perform a detailed search on an LLC business:

  • You can perform a search to verify or confirm business legitimacy.
  • Ensure the business name or logo doesn't infringe on existing trademarks.
  • A search is crucial in performing diligence for an LLC before investments.
  • A search is important for evaluating potential business partners.
  • Useful for understanding industry trends and positioning.
  • Performing a search helps you check a business before completing a deal to mitigate risks in business transactions.

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FAQs

Do I Need the Words “New Hampshire” or “NH” in My LLC’s Name?

You do not need the words “New Hampshire” or “NH” in your LLC’s name.

Can I Reserve a Name for My New Hampshire LLC Before It Is Formed?

You can reserve a name for your New Hampshire LLC before it is formed. You have 120 days after applying with the Secretary of State.

How Often Are New Hampshire LLC Name Filings Updated Online?

New Hampshire LLC name filings are often updated online within 24 hours of being received by the office. However, some may take longer to appear if they require further review.

References:

  1. https://www.revenue.nh.gov/faq/registration-secretary-state.htm

About The Author

Venture Smarter | How to Look Up an LLC in New Hampshire? (Simple Guide)
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.
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Venture Smarter | How to Look Up an LLC in New Hampshire? (Simple Guide)
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

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