How to Look up an LLC in Wyoming? (Step by Step Guide)

Published by Delina Chantel Yasmeh | Author

Last updated: November 18, 2024

FACT CHECKED by Lou Viveros, Growth & Transition Advisor

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If you're starting a business entity in Wyoming and need to verify if your preferred name is available, or you’re searching for a specific limited liability company, product, or service, conducting a business entity search is crucial.

As a business consultant for LLCs across various states, I understand many clients' concerns regarding limited liability companies.

In collaboration with a team of legal advisors, I have created a comprehensive guide on conducting a business entity search for a Wyoming LLC.

This guide will assist you in navigating the process and provide you with all the information you need.

Quick Summary

How to Search an LLC Name in Wyoming?

To search for an LLC name in Wyoming, look for existing business names through the Wyoming Secretary of State. The platform contains a database of all registered companies in the state.

You can conduct a business entity search by following these steps:

1. Visit the Secretary of State's website.
2. Enter the filing/business name. If you do not know the full Wyoming business name, use the ‘starts with’ or ‘contains’ option.
3. After clicking ‘search,’ the webpage will display a list of businesses matching your criteria.
4. You can click on the business name to view all public information about the Wyoming business.

1. Use the Wyoming Business Name Search

The Wyoming Secretary of State's website provides a robust platform for conducting a business name search, offering various methods to cater to different search needs.

a. Name Search

This is the most direct method to check for the availability of a business name. By entering the desired name into the search system, you can quickly determine if it's already in use.

The system allows for variations in the search, such as 'starts with' or 'contains', to ensure a comprehensive search.

b. Entity Number

Each registered business in Wyoming is assigned a unique filing ID number. If you have this number, you can search for detailed information about a specific business entity.

Each Wyoming LLC, C corp, or any other entity type has a filing ID number; you can enter the number into the designated field and search for the business.

This will generate key business details, including the initial filing date, business address, filing history, Wyoming registered agent information, entity name, location, and status.

This method is particularly useful for due diligence and in-depth research about an existing LLC.

c. Executive Name

Searching by an executive's name is another available option. This approach helps uncover all the corporate connections linked to a specific person, offering a clear view of their involvement and positions in various business ventures.

2. Call the State

Direct communication with the Wyoming Secretary of State's office can be a valuable resource for assistance in the search process. You can do this by dialing +1 (307) 777-7311.

By calling the office, you can receive guidance, clarify any doubts, and get immediate feedback on the availability and appropriateness of your proposed LLC name.

3. Send an Email

For those who prefer written communication or need documented responses, emailing the Secretary of State's office is an effective approach. You can send them an email via SecOfState@wyo.gov.

This method ensures you have a formal record of your inquiries and the responses provided, which can be crucial for future reference.

4. Other Wyoming Business Search Options

You can utilize other unofficial Wyoming business search options to see if your desired business name is available.

These alternatives include:

a. Social Media

Because we now live in a digital age, it’s also essential to do a name search on various social media platforms to make sure your Wyoming LLC name is available on social media.

If existing businesses are using your name on social media regardless of filing with the Wyoming Secretary of State, this can lead to problems in the future.

b. Credit Bureaus

Credit bureaus maintain records of businesses registered with the Wyoming Secretary of State. These records can be accessed through the credit bureau's website using available information, such as the LLC name, Social Security Number (SSN), Employer Identification Number (EIN), or location. Keep in mind that credit bureaus typically charge a fee for this service.

c. Business Associations

Trade associations and community groups can be helpful when researching an LLC or business. You can explore other LLCs or companies operating in a similar field through these organizations.

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

Conduct a trademark search through Wyoming's electronic name search system to check if a business name is trademarked.

Ensuring that your chosen business name is available and free from trademark infringement is vital to Wyoming's LLC name search process.

You can perform a trademark search to avoid legal complications with the name of your LLC through the state’s office electronic name search.

Here are the steps to take:

• Access the USPTO Database: Visit the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website and use the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS). This database includes all federally registered trademarks.
• Search the Wyoming Secretary of State’s Database: In addition to the USPTO, check the Wyoming Secretary of State’s website for state-level trademarks. Some trademarks may only be registered within Wyoming. According to data from the Wyoming Secretary of State's office, in 2019, the state saw a 5% increase in trademark registrations, demonstrating the growing interest in securing state-level trademark protection.
• Consider Similar Names: During your search, look for names that are identical and similar to your desired business name. Trademarks that are confusingly similar, especially in related industries, can pose legal issues.
• Consult a Legal Professional: If you find a name that might conflict with existing trademarks or are unsure about the search results, seek advice from an intellectual property attorney. They can provide expert guidance on trademark laws and potential conflicts.
• Regularly Monitor Trademarks: Continue monitoring the trademark landscape after establishing your business. This practice helps identify new trademarks that might conflict with your business name as your brand grows [1]. According to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, in 2020, over 500,000 trademark applications were filed, indicating a 10% increase from the previous year, highlighting the dynamic nature of the trademark environment and the importance of vigilant monitoring.

Based on my firsthand experience, it's crucial to consider a few key factors when looking up an LLC name with the Wyoming Secretary of State.

It’s best to search for part of your Wyoming LLC name to make sure you see every potentially similar name.

For example, if your LLC name is Creek Valley Farms Limited Liability Company, simply search Creek Valley. Leave out any LLC or LLC in the search.

Also, leave out punctuation like commas, periods, quotes, or hyphens. The business entity search also ignores capitalization, so it isn’t essential to use capital letters.

The Wyoming Secretary of State also has strict rules for distinguishability, so using “contains” instead of “starts with” can help you view all business entity names that may be similar to yours.

"Your Wyoming LLC must not present itself as a Wyoming Corporation or any other type of business entity apart from an LLC."

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

Reasons to Perform a Search

Here are reasons why you should perform a search:

• Legal Compliance and Verification: For legal matters, such as litigation or contract disputes, verifying the existence and status of an LLC is essential. This can also be important for regulatory compliance in certain industries.
• Brand Identity: Establishing a unique and distinguishable presence in the market.
• Avoiding Legal Complications: Preventing trademark infringement and the associated legal disputes.
• Market Positioning: Ensuring the name aligns with your business identity and market strategy.
• Due Diligence Before Business Transactions: Before entering into business deals, partnerships, or investments, it's crucial to research the company you're dealing with.
• Mergers and Acquisitions: In cases of potential mergers or acquisitions, thorough research of the target company, including its legal standing and history, is a critical step.
• Future Expansion: Checking the availability of the name on digital platforms, including social media and domain names, for online presence and marketing.
• Checking for Business Name Availability: If you're looking to start a new LLC, you need to ensure that the name you want is not already taken. An LLC search can confirm name availability.
• Intellectual Property Considerations: For trademark or other intellectual property issues, knowing about existing businesses and their names can be important to avoid conflicts.

Related Articles:

• Dissolving an LLC in Wyoming
• Top LLC Formation Services in Wyoming
• How Much Does an LLC Cost in Wyoming

FAQs

References:

1. https://sos.wyo.gov/Business/Trademark_registration.aspx