Pennsylvania Business Entity Search
Find a registered business through Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations. Use the official link below, then check the search options and name rules for Pennsylvania.
Official website: file.dos.pa.gov · Opens in a new tab
Pennsylvania search options and record coverage
Pennsylvania's business search locates entities by name and filing information and displays status, registered office, registered office provider, officers, managers, annual reports, and documents. The Department's online portal supports formations, foreign registrations, annual reports, amendments, fictitious names, certificates, and copies. Use exact/partial name and inspect the public record for management data.
Checking a business name in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires entity names to be distinguishable and to use the appropriate LLC or corporate designator. Punctuation, capitalization, spacing, and generic words may not cure similarity. Department acceptance does not clear trademarks, fictitious names, professional restrictions, or local licenses.
Pennsylvania name reservations
Pennsylvania name reservation uses the Department's reservation form and current fee schedule; the accessible 2026 extract did not expose the complete fee and duration. Reservation is optional filing priority and not trademark clearance.
DBA, trade names, and fictitious names
Pennsylvania fictitious-name/DBA registration is filed statewide with the Department of State. Use https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dos/programs/business and the online business portal; county advertising and local licensing may also apply. A fictitious name does not create a separate entity.
What do you need after the search?
- Official proof of standing — find certificate fees and ordering instructions.
- A missed report or inactive registration — check deadlines and reinstatement rules.
- A new business registration — compare Pennsylvania formation and filing fees.