Whether you need information on an existing business or are looking to check name availability for a new business, Oregon Business Entity Search is the way to go. A database of existing entities in the state is maintained by the Oregon SOS.
Public access to the database enables anyone to use the search function and find details on entities of interest. As with other states, Oregon business entity search is maintained by the office of the secretary of state. Due to this, it’s often called the secretary of state business search.
Accessing And Using Oregon Business Entity Search
Since the search function is publicly available, it’s available for access on the SOS website. This website has a basic name search available. More detailed searches can be conducted using the Advanced Search function.
The quick search uses the business name or Business Registry Number to provide access to certain information related to the business. It’s straightforward, but in most cases, Advanced search is more useful.
Users can access the following options on Oregon Corporation Search:
- Business Name Availability Check.
- Exact Match.
- Exact Match followed by other words. This means you should know the beginning of the name of the business, and the page will show all relevant results. This is generally called a “begins with” search.
- Exact Match without order. This option is something like a keyword search. The results will show businesses that have the entered search words. The order of the words in the name is not important.
- Sound-alike search. Use this option when you want to check if the words sound the same in speech.
Additionally, refinements can be made by deciding to choose only active or inactive business entities. Alternatively, you can search through all entities whether active and inactive.
Another option available is the use of Business Registry Number. This number is available to all business entities registered with the state. It’s unique to each business, so it always provides a specific result relevant to the registry number.
Using The Oregon Corporation Search Results
If there are multiple results to the search, they’re displayed in a tabular format. Users can click on the entity name or registry number to get more details on the specific entity.
The details page of the Oregon Corporation Search includes details on various facets of the entity. These include entity name, registration number, type, status, name and address of the Oregon registered agent, filing history, and a few more details.
How To Reserve A Business Name In Oregon
A name reservation is a handy tool that can work wonders for entrepreneurs. There can be several reasons for choosing name reservation. Whether you choose to use the time for setting up logistics, managing taxes, or for any other reason is up to you.
It’s worth noting that unique and interesting names are tough to come by. Tons of businesses already exist and there are also trademarks and other requirements to deal with. Finding a name that fits the criteria of being “distinguishable upon record” while still being attractive can be tough.
So, if you do find a name that fits your requirements, taking control through name reservation can be a good choice.
Is It Mandatory To Reserve A Name In Oregon?
No. Oregon doesn’t require users to reserve a business name. This process is entirely optional.
We have already discussed some merits of considering a name reservation. On the other hand, if you’re not very interested in a specific name or aren’t concerned about its availability, there is no sense in spending time and resources on reservation.
How Long Does A Name Reservation Last And What Does It Cost?
Once the secretary of state accepts the name reservation request, it remains valid for 120 days. The filing fee for this form is $100.
Reserving A Business Name In Oregon
Reserving a business name in Oregon requires filing an Application for Name Reservation with the Oregon SOS. The form is simple enough and requires only the necessities. You’ll have to enter the name to reserve, your own name and address, and an execution with signature and title.
Once you’ve downloaded and completed the form, mail it along with the filing fee to:
Secretary of State
Corporation Division
255 Capitol St. NE, Suite 151
Salem, OR 97310-1327
The filing fee should be paid through a check made payable to “Corporation Division”. Before filing the form, be sure to complete your due diligence. This includes going through the state’s statutes and rules on naming the business.
Additionally, make it a point to check availability by doing an Oregon Business Entity Search. Going through just the name availability search may not be enough. It’s a good idea to check through other results as well to weed out any potential issues. These simple steps can dramatically increase the chances of a successful filing.