Looking to verify a company in New Jersey? Whatever your interests—business owner, reporter, attorney, or just a curious person—the New Jersey Business Entity Search is one of the most underutilized and most powerful public tools. In this post, we will show you exactly how to use it, the types of information you can access, and why it matters, all without the fluff.
What Is the New Jersey Business Entity Search?
The New Jersey Business Entity Search is a database searchable by anyone. It is maintained by the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, and it provides the ability to search and view basic records on any business entity established in New Jersey.
This includes:
- LLCs (Limited Liability Companies)
- Corporations
- Partnerships
- Nonprofits
You can search by multiple identifiers:
- Business Name
- Entity ID
- Principal Name (such as Officer, Director, or Managing Member)
- Registered Agent
- Associated Name (like a fictitious or former name)
This makes it extremely useful for checking corporate legitimacy, conducting due diligence, or even researching competitors.
Why Should You Use the New Jersey Business Entity Search?
Suppose you are looking to contract someone out of New Jersey. A quick search on this database reveals whether the business is active, when it was incorporated, and, usually, who the members are. For journalists and researchers, it is an invaluable resource for pinpointing related companies and locating shell companies.
Or you may be setting up your own LLC and want to avoid any name conflicts—this is the first place to look.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the New Jersey Business Entity Search
1. Go to the Official Database
Navigate to the official search tool: NJ Business Records Service
2. Choose Your Search Type
You’ll be prompted to select one of the following:
- Business Name
- Entity ID
- Principal Name
- Registered Agent
- Associated Name
For most users, “Business Name” is the best starting point.
3. Enter Your Search Term
Click Continue, then enter the name or keyword in the provided search field. Hit Continue again to load the results.
4. Review the Results
Each result includes:
- Business Name
- Entity ID
- City
- Type of Entity
- Original Filing Date
You’ll also see two checkbox columns:
- Order Status Report
- Order Copies
If you check either and hit Continue, you’ll be directed to order official copies for a fee.
Real-Life Example Using the New Jersey Business Entity Search
Say you’re vetting a New Jersey-based LLC called Garden State Solar Solutions. You enter the name into the Business Name search. The database shows it’s active, was founded in 2017, and is based in Cherry Hill.
You also learn it has a different associated name—something you wouldn’t know just from their website. That could point to a prior rebranding or a related company.
What You Can and Cannot Access in the New Jersey Business Entity Search
Available for free:
- Entity name and ID
- City and registration type
- Filing date
Available for a fee:
- Status reports
- Certified copies of registration documents
For full legal records, you’ll want to order documents directly through the portal.
Related Tools Worth Knowing
If you’re doing corporate investigations or business research, don’t stop at New Jersey’s portal. These databases can help you expand your research:
- EDGAR Database Guide: SEC filings for public companies in the U.S.
- USPTO Trademark Search: Search for registered trademarks, helpful when checking for brand conflicts or intellectual property holdings.
FAQ: New Jersey LLC and Name Search Questions
How do I find out if an LLC name is available in New Jersey?
Use the Business Name search in the official NJ portal. If no active business uses that name, it’s likely available.
How to check if an LLC name is available?
Beyond New Jersey, each state has its own name availability tool. For NJ, use the same Business Name search—just don’t order documents if you’re only checking availability.
How to check LLC status in NJ?
Use the same search process above. If the company is listed as “active,” it’s in good standing. If not, you may see terms like “revoked” or “dissolved.”
What are the rules for LLC names in NJ?
According to NJ Treasury, an LLC name must:
- Be distinguishable from other registered names
- Include “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company”
- Avoid misleading terms like “bank” or “insurance” unless properly licensed
What not to put in your LLC name?
Avoid terms that imply illegal activity, suggest government affiliation, or mislead about the business’s nature. For more, see the official guidelines.
Can I name my LLC after myself?
Yes. You can name your business after yourself, like “John M. Taylor Consulting LLC,” as long as the name complies with NJ’s rules.
Expert Tips for Business Name Research in the New Jersey Business Entity Search
- Use multiple search types: If you don’t find results via the business name, try using a principal’s name or a registered agent.
- Check for associated names: Businesses sometimes operate under alternate names or DBAs.
- Don’t assume uniqueness: Similar names can exist in other states. Use national tools like EDGAR or the USPTO database for broader checks.
Final Thoughts
The New Jersey Business Entity Search is a powerful tool that’s underutilized for transparency, due diligence, and business research. Whether you’re looking for information on a business partner or researching a business for your next venture, a few minutes researching this database might save you hours or headaches—or worse—legal action down the line.
