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Name availability · ID

Idaho business name search

In Idaho, search the Secretary of State's SOSBiz Business Search, which matches records that start with the keyword you enter. Idaho DBAs (Assumed Business Names) are filed in the same system and must also be distinguishable from existing entities and reserved names, so one search covers both.

How to check if a name is available in Idaho

  1. 01

    Open SOSBiz Business Search

    Go to sosbiz.idaho.gov and choose Business Search. Results start with the keyword you type, so lead with the first word of your name.

  2. 02

    Rearrange your keywords

    Because the search works from the start of the name, try each important word first ("River Bend Bakery", then "Bend Bakery") to catch names that begin differently.

  3. 03

    Include ABNs in your review

    Assumed Business Names are recorded with the Secretary of State and must be distinguishable from entities and reserved names, so treat ABN hits as real conflicts.

  4. 04

    Remember an ABN doesn't form a company

    Idaho says an ABN just tells the public who operates under that name. It doesn't create a legal entity or serve as a business license.

  5. 05

    Check trademarks and web names

    Search https://tmsearch.uspto.gov/ for federal trademarks, then confirm the domain and social handles.

  6. 06

    Try more ideas

    Need more candidates? Our free /business-name-generator/ can produce a list to run through SOSBiz.

Idaho business naming rules

  • Assumed Business Names must be distinguishable on the Secretary of State's records from domestic filing entities, LLPs, registered foreign entities and reserved or registered names.
  • An ABN can't falsely state or imply a connection to government.
  • An ABN can't use entity words such as "Inc.", "Corporation", "LLC" or "Company".
  • An ABN can't suggest it is organized for a purpose the law doesn't allow.

Reserving a name

Idaho lets you reserve a business name for four months once your Application for Reservation of Legal Entity Name is approved. Check the current fee on the agency's site.

DBAs and trade names

Idaho DBAs are called Assumed Business Names (ABNs) and are filed with the Idaho Secretary of State through SOSBiz. An ABN stays active until the owner cancels it; there's no renewal.

Still looking for the right name?

Brainstorm dozens of options with the free generator, then run your shortlist through the Idaho search above.

Business name generatorName ideas by industryHow to name your business

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a DBA and an ABN in Idaho?

There isn't one. "DBA" is the common term; Idaho's official name for it is Assumed Business Name (ABN).

How long does an Idaho ABN last?

Until the owner cancels it. Idaho ABNs don't expire and no longer need to be renewed.

How do I check if a name is taken in Idaho?

Search SOSBiz Business Search, trying each main word of your name first because results start with your keyword. Count both entities and ABNs as possible conflicts.

How long can I reserve an Idaho business name?

Four months from approval.

General information, not legal advice. Name approval is decided by the Idaho Secretary of State; a name showing as available in a search is not a guarantee it will be accepted.