Check LLC Name Availability in New York | DOS Search
Title: Check LLC Name Availability in New York | DOS Search Description: Search New York LLC names free via the Department of State's public inquiry system. Learn availability requirements and reservation options.
How do I check LLC name availability in New York?
Search the New York Department of State's public inquiry database at https://apps.dos.ny.gov/publicInquiry/ to check if your desired LLC name is available. The name must be distinguishable from all LLCs, corporations, and limited partnerships already registered with the state. If available, you can reserve the name for 60 days by paying a $20 reservation fee through the Department of State's filing system.
Search Process
Access the free public inquiry tool directly—no login required. Search by business name to verify availability instantly. Your proposed name must be distinguishable under N.Y. Ltd. Liab. Co. Law § 204 from existing registered entities. Minor differences in punctuation or spacing typically satisfy the distinguishability requirement, but the Department makes the final determination during filing.
Name Requirements
Your LLC name must include a required designator: "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." (N.Y. Ltd. Liab. Co. Law § 204). Certain words are restricted without special authorization: Bank, Insurance, University, College, and Attorney (N.Y. Ltd. Liab. Co. Law §§ 204, 1212(b)). If your business operates in a regulated industry, contact the Department of State to determine if you need prior approval.
Name Reservation
If you want to secure an available name before filing your Articles of Organization, file a name reservation request with the Department of State for $20. The reservation lasts 60 days. Submit your reservation online at https://filing.dos.ny.gov/ or call (518) 473-2492 for assistance.
After Formation: DBA Filing
If your LLC operates under a name different from your registered legal name, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Name (DBA) with the Department of State for $25.
Contact Information
New York Department of State Division of Corporations, State Records and Uniform Commercial Code One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231 Phone: (518) 473-2492 Website: https://dos.ny.gov/ Online Filing: https://filing.dos.ny.gov/ Business Search: https://apps.dos.ny.gov/publicInquiry/
This is general information, not legal advice.