Search by Subject · Search Corporate Database · Search Corporate Card File · Search Rejected Corporate Applications · Search UCC Database · Search Liens. One of the first steps to take when starting a business in Massachusetts is to conduct a Massachusetts Business Search. The Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts maintains records of Massachusetts business entities that exist or have been dissolved. The database is free to use and makes it easy to search for existing companies and verify an available business name.
If you are looking for information about a particular LLC but are unsure of the entity's name, you can perform an individual search. You and your business can be successful through training, counseling, and other assistance aimed at business owners. LLCs are independent legal entities that separate business interests, debts, and liabilities of owners from personal liabilities. The IRS can review your business file to see if your company is a C corporation or an S corporation depending on the choices you made and the type of tax return you file.
A business bank account is necessary for businesses, as it helps keep business and personal finances separate. Here you will find information and resources related to hiring, training and managing your company's employees. A Doing-Business As Certificate (DBA) is a quick and easy way to establish your business through your city or city clerk's office. Similar to selecting a good business name, companies with a large logo impress customers, helping to distinguish themselves from the competition, and create a positive visual memory of their unique business services for customers.
You can use the online tool to search for company names and find out if another company is already using the name you have chosen. A trademark sends a message to competitors who may be researching your niche that you refer to business. If a company is struggling to think of a good business name, one way to generate ideas is to look at the list of search results to see if any expired names might fit the company. In most states, the website of the state business filing agency includes an entity name verification tool.
Access to information about starting a small business can help people plan wisely and avoid common mistakes. It also helps build business credibility when business loans are needed to grow the business in the future. A DBA (doing business as), or trade name, is a fictitious business name under which companies operate to do business outside the formal name of the LLC.
