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South Carolina Secretary of State Mark Hammond

Business Entities Online

File, Search, and Retrieve Documents Electronically

Demo Version

In partnership with SC.gov
Business Name Search

To File a New Business

Enter the full business name you wish to use and click "Search." If the name is available, click the "Add New Entity" button to select the type of business you want to create. The name I wish to use is unavailable -- what are my options?

  • If you are a foreign (out of state) business and your full legal name is not available, please click "Add New Entity" after entering your full legal name in the search box. On the following page you will be given the opportunity to file a Fictitious Name, which will allow you to register your business with your full legal name.
  • If you have written permission to use a name that is not available please enter the full name in the search box and click "Add New Entity." On the following page you will be given the opportunity to file an Indistinguishable Name, which will allow you to register your business with your full legal name. You will be required to upload written permission that meets the statutory requirement.
  • If the name you want is currently being used, and you do not meet the above requirements for the exceptions, please choose a different name.

Results displayed will show entities that contain your search criteria.

Please complete the following to continue searching. After completing the captcha, please search again.

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