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Alabama Secretary of State | Business Entity Search

The Alabama Secretary of State offers a comprehensive Business Entity Search tool that allows users to find information about registered businesses in Alabama. Whether you’re looking to verify a company’s status, find a registered agent, or check the availability of a business name, this tool provides a convenient solution for businesses and individuals alike.

Steps to Perform an Alabama Business Entity Search

1. Visit the Alabama Secretary of State Business Entity Search Page

Begin by navigating to the official Alabama Business Entity Records page:

Alabama Business Entity Search

2. Choose Your Search Criteria


The search tool offers multiple search options, allowing you to refine your query:

  • By Entity Name: Enter the full or partial name of the business.
  • By Entity Number: Use the six-digit entity ID assigned by the Secretary of State.
  • By Officer/Agent/Incorporator: Search using the name of a person associated with the business.
  • By Date: Find businesses formed on a specific date or within a specific month and year.
  • By Reservation ID: Enter the reservation or registration ID to retrieve specific details.

After selecting your preferred search method, complete the CAPTCHA verification and click Search.

3. Review the Search Results

The search results will be displayed in a table format with key information about each matching business. Columns include:

  • Entity Name
  • Entity ID
  • Type
  • Principal Office Address
  • Status
  • Formation Date

Click on the Entity Name or Entity ID link to view more detailed information about a business.

4. View Detailed Business Information

Once you select a business from the search results, you will be directed to a page displaying comprehensive details, such as:

General Business Information:

  • Entity Name
  • Entity ID
  • Entity Type (e.g., LLC, corporation)
  • Status (active, dissolved, etc.)
  • Formation Date
  • Place of Formation
  • Principal Office Address
  • Mailing Address

Registered Agent Information:

  • Registered Agent Name
  • Registered Office Address

Additional Details:

  • Nature of Business
  • Annual Reports
  • Filing History
  • Miscellaneous Transactions

You can also request certified copies of business documents directly from this page.

Advanced Search Features

For users who need more specific information, the Alabama SOS business search offers advanced search capabilities, such as:

  • Search by Registered Agent: Identify all businesses represented by a particular agent.
  • Search by Filing History: View past filings and amendments.
  • Search by Expired Entities: Find businesses that are no longer active.

Why Use the Alabama Business Entity Search?

The Alabama business entity search is essential for several purposes, including:

  • Checking name availability: Ensure that your desired business name is not already in use.
  • Validating registered agents: Confirm the legitimacy of a registered agent representing a business.
  • Researching filing history: Access important documents related to a business’s operations in Alabama.
  • Finding corporate details: View entity type, formation date, principal address, and status.

Common Use Cases for the Alabama Business Search Tool

The Alabama Secretary of State business lookup tool is used by a variety of individuals and organizations, including:

  • Entrepreneurs: To check name availability before registering a new business.
  • Legal Professionals: To validate business details and registered agents.
  • Investors: To conduct due diligence on companies.
  • Journalists: To gather information for reporting purposes.

Additional Resources

Last updated January 9, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if a business name is available in Alabama?

To check the availability of a business name, use the Alabama business name search tool provided by the Secretary of State. Enter the desired name in the search box and select the appropriate filters. This helps ensure that the name you wish to register is not already in use.

Can I search for a business by its registered agent in Alabama?

Yes, the Alabama SOS business lookup allows users to search for businesses by their registered agent. Simply select the “Officer | Agent | Incorporator” option, enter the registered agent’s name, and click “Search.”

What details can I find in the Alabama business entity search results?

The search results provide comprehensive information, including:

  • Business Name
  • Entity ID
  • Entity Type (LLC, corporation, etc.)
  • Status (active, dissolved, etc.)
  • Place of Formation
  • Registered Agent Name and Address
  • Filing History and Annual Reports

Is there a fee to conduct an Alabama business entity search?

No, performing a basic business entity search on the Alabama Secretary of State’s website is free. However, if you need to request certified copies or other official documents, additional fees may apply.

How do I obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Alabama?

To obtain a Certificate of Good Standing, visit the Alabama Secretary of State’s Business Services page and request the certificate by providing the entity’s ID. There is a fee associated with obtaining this document, and it can be requested online or by mail.

What types of businesses can be found in the Alabama business registry?

The Alabama business registry includes various entity types, such as:

  • Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
  • Corporations (C-Corp, S-Corp)
  • Limited Partnerships (LP)
  • Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
  • Professional Associations (PA)
  • Non-Profit Organizations

How do I contact the Alabama Secretary of State for assistance?

If you need further assistance, you can contact the Alabama Secretary of State’s Business Services Division:

  • Phone: (334) 242-5324
  • Email: business.services@sos.alabama.gov
  • Mailing Address:
    P.O. Box 5616
    Montgomery, AL 36103-5616
  • Office Hours: 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (Monday to Friday)

Can I search for trade names and trademarks in Alabama?

Yes, the Alabama Secretary of State’s business entity search includes trade names and trademarks associated with registered businesses. You can view these by accessing the “Trade Name Information” section on the business details page.