How Do I Check LLC Name Availability in Georgia?

Search the Georgia Secretary of State's business database at https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch to verify your LLC name is available. Your name must be distinguishable from all filed corporations, LLCs, and limited partnerships in Georgia's records and include a required designator: "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 590-7-2). The search is free and instantaneous.

What the Search Covers

The online search tool checks against all active and inactive business entities on file with the Georgia Secretary of State. Results display exact matches and similar names, helping you identify potential conflicts under Georgia's distinguishability standard before you file your Articles of Organization.

Naming Requirements

Your LLC name must:

Include a designator: "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C."
Be distinguishable from all other filed corporations, LLCs, and limited partnerships on Georgia's records
Avoid restricted words: Bank, Banc, Banque, Banker, Banking Company, Credit Union, Savings & Loan, Trust, Trust Company, College, and University (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 590-7-2)

Using restricted words requires special approval and documentation.

Reserve Your Name (Optional)

If your search confirms availability, you can reserve the name for 30 days by paying a $35.00 fee through the Georgia Secretary of State's online filing system at https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/Account. This protects your name while you prepare your Articles of Organization.

DBA Requirement

If your LLC operates under a name different from its legal name on file, you must register a DBA (Doing Business As) with the clerk of superior court in your county.

Contact Information

Georgia Secretary of State, Corporations Division

Phone: (404) 656-2817
Website: https://sos.ga.gov/
Address: 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE, Suite 313 West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334

This is general information, not legal advice.