How to Check LLC Name Availability in North Carolina
Use the North Carolina Secretary of State's online business search tool at https://www.sosnc.gov/online_services/search/by_title/search_Business_Registration. Your LLC name must be distinguishable from all existing registered names and must end with "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" per N.C.G.S. § 55D-20. Search your exact proposed name and variations to confirm availability before filing your Articles of Organization.
Search the Secretary of State Database
Access the free search tool directly—no registration required. The database covers active LLC registrations, reserved names (valid 120 days), and other business entity types that may conflict with your proposed name. Search multiple variations of your name to ensure distinguishability under N.C.G.S. § 55D-20.
If your name is available, you may reserve it for $10.00 (120-day hold) or file your Articles of Organization immediately.
Required Name Designator
Your LLC name must include one of these designators:
- Limited Liability Company
- L.L.C.
- LLC
This requirement is mandatory under N.C.G.S. § 55D-20.
Restricted Words & Limitations
Avoid these restricted words unless you obtain prior board approval: Bank, Trust, Insurance, and professional designations. Do not use words implying unauthorized government affiliation. Contact the Business Registration Division at (919) 814-5400 if your preferred name contains restricted language.
After Confirming Availability
Reserve the name: Pay $10.00 to hold your name for 120 days while you prepare formation documents.
File Articles of Organization: Submit online at https://www.sosnc.gov/online_filing/filing/creation or by mail to the Secretary of State.
Register a DBA (if needed): If operating under a different name, file an assumed business name with the Register of Deeds in your county and North Carolina's statewide assumed-business-name database.
Contact Information
North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division
- Phone: (919) 814-5400
- Website: https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/business_registration
- Address: 2 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27601-2903
This is general information, not legal advice.