How to Do a Business Name Search in Nebraska
Selecting the right name is an essential first step for your Nebraska LLC, requiring you to ensure the name’s availability. Searching the Nebraska business entity database is vital to avoid infringing on existing business names and intellectual property rights within the state.
Our Nebraska LLC name search guide offers essential tips on checking LLC name availability in Nebraska, reservation, and registration, helping you secure a unique and compliant business identity efficiently.
Nebraska SOS Entity Name Search
To form an LLC in Nebraska, you will need to conduct a Nebraska Secretary of State Business Search.
Search the Nebraska Corporate and Business Search tool on the Secretary of State website.
Your Nebraska LLC name must be in compliance with all state requirements. It must also be distinct from any corporations that are operating in the state. No matter what name you choose, your LLC must include “L.L.C.” and “LLC”.
LLCs in Nebraska do not qualify as corporations. This means that the name of your LLC must not include the abbreviations “Inc.” and “Corp.” nor the words “Incorporation”, or “Corporation”.
Your LLC name must be distinctive, which means it should be unique and distinct from other Nebraska businesses.
Searching the Nebraska Name Database with a Company Name
You can search Nebraska company names on the Corporate & Business Search Page.
The following options are available to you:
- Name the exact match
- Name Keyword Search
- Name sounds like
- Name begins with
Once you have chosen your search option, it will allow you to enter the entity’s name and standing. You will need to complete the reCAPTCHA before you click on Perform Search.
A list of names matching your search criteria will be displayed. This list will contain information about Nebraska businesses, including:
- The entity’s name
- The account number of the entity
- Type and status of the entity
Click the Details link to find out more. You can view the business details page to see all information that has been filed by the Nebraska Secretary of State. It also allows you to request a Certificate Of Good Standing.
Searching the Nebraska Name Database with an Account Number
Using an account number, you can also search for Nebraska company names on the Corporate or Business search page. An account number can often lead to more detailed search results that will give you immediate access to business information.
To search for an account number, go to this page, then select the account number option and enter the information. You must indicate that you are not a bot to complete the search. If the search were performed correctly, you would be presented with a detailed page that includes all information about the business in the file with the Secretary.
It is possible to purchase a Certificate in Good Standing.
After completing the reinstatement forms, they can be sent in person or via mail. A cover letter with your contact information for reinstatement forms sent by mail should be attached.
You will need to complete and submit the Application for Reinstatement form in order to reinstate your Nebraska corporation fully.
Your reinstatement application will be processed in two to three working days. Nebraska does not offer expedited processing.
There is no limit to the time that you can reinstate a Nebraska corporation. You can request reinstatement at any time. You must still pay your LLC all taxes and fees before you can resume business operations.
After your corporation is dissolved, the name of your Nebraska LLC remains in reserve for one year. You can create a new corporation using the same name of your old LLC after this year without having to pay reinstatement fees.
You cannot change your address, directors or officers of the company, or your registered agent in your reinstatement documents. This information can be changed by submitting a Nebraska Change in Registered Agent or Office form.
Nebraska Secretary of State (Contact)
Mailing Address
Business Services Division
P.O. Box 94608
Lincoln, NE 68509-4608
Physical Address
Business Services Division
1201 N. Street, Suite 120
Lincoln, NE 68508
Email: sos.corp@nebraska.gov
Phone: (402) 471-4079
Additional Steps
1. Trademark Search
When searching for a business name, it’s important to note that availability doesn’t necessarily mean the name is free to use if it’s already a registered trademark.
To avoid potential complications down the line, it’s wise to conduct a thorough trademark search using the Trademark Electronic Search System before finalizing a business name.
2. Choose a Registered Agent
After you have chosen an LLC name that is distinctive and unique, you can now choose your LLC’s Registered Agent.
3. Check if the Domain Name is Available
To check if a domain name is available, you can follow these steps:
- Go to a domain registrar website, such as GoDaddy.com or Namecheap.com.
- In the search bar on the homepage, type in the domain name you want to check.
- Click on the search button to see if the domain name is available or not.
- If the domain name is available, you will be prompted to purchase it. If it’s not available, the registrar will suggest some alternative options or you can try a different domain name.
4. Check if Social Media Name is Available
Check if a social media name is available for a new business name
5. Register Nebraska Business Entity
When you complete the required documents for filing a new business entity, you then register your business and business name with the state. The state of Nebraska will either approve your business name or reject it.
If you hire a good LLC service like Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness or Bizee, these LLC services have business name tools available for you to do a quick search.
6. Register an Employer ID Number (EIN) With the IRS
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify businesses and other entities for tax purposes.
7. Create a Brand Logo
Creating a business logo involves several steps. There are affordable online services that can design a logo for you and assist with the process.
Define your brand: Before you start creating a logo, you need to define your brand’s personality, values, and mission. This will help you create a logo that accurately represents your brand.
8. Write a Business Plan
Writing a business plan involves a comprehensive process that covers various aspects of your business, including the industry, market research, marketing and sales strategies, financial projections, and more.
9. Open a Business Bank Account in Nebraska
A bank account is generally required for a new Limited Liability Company (LLC) or corporation to separate personal finances from business finances and to establish a clear record of business transactions.
References
https://sos.nebraska.gov/business-services/corporate-and-business
