Name availability · IN
Indiana business name search
Indiana has two free name tools on INBiz. Business Search shows registered entities, with Contains, Starts With and Exact Match options and advanced filters for status and name type. Name availability is checked separately: log in to INBiz, open Online Services, and choose Name Reservations.
How to check if a name is available in Indiana
- 01
Search INBiz
Open Business Search on inbiz.in.gov and enter your proposed name.
- 02
Toggle Contains, Starts With and Exact Match
Each option finds different near matches. Advanced Search adds filters for type, status and name type, which helps separate legal names from assumed names.
- 03
Run the official availability check
Log in to INBiz, go to Online Services > Secretary of State > Name Reservations, enter the name and click "Check availability."
- 04
Check county DBAs if you're a sole proprietor
Sole proprietor and general partnership DBAs are filed with county recorders, so check the recorder's records in your county as well.
- 05
Look up trademarks and handles
Search https://tmsearch.uspto.gov/ for federal trademarks and confirm the domain and social handles are available.
- 06
Generate more names
If INBiz says the name is taken, our free /business-name-generator/ can suggest alternatives to check.
Indiana business naming rules
- Corporation, LLC, LP and LLP names must be distinguishable from the names of other businesses on the Secretary of State's records.
- Businesses registered with the Secretary of State that operate under a different name must file the assumed name with the Secretary of State, not at the county.
- Sole proprietorships and general partnerships file a Certificate of Assumed Business Name with the county recorder of each county where they have an office.
Reserving a name
Indiana handles name reservations online through INBiz (Online Services > Secretary of State > Name Reservations), where you check availability before reserving. Check the current fee on the agency's site.
DBAs and trade names
Indiana entities registered with the Secretary of State file assumed business names with the Secretary of State, not the county. Sole proprietorships and general partnerships file a Certificate of Assumed Business Name with the county recorder in each county where they have an office.
Still looking for the right name?
Brainstorm dozens of options with the free generator, then run your shortlist through the Indiana search above.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check if a business name is available in Indiana?
Log in to INBiz, open Online Services, choose Name Reservations under the Secretary of State section, enter the name and click "Check availability."
Where does an Indiana LLC file a DBA?
With the Secretary of State. Entities registered with the state don't file assumed names at the county.
Where does a sole proprietor file a DBA in Indiana?
With the county recorder in each county where the business has an office, using a Certificate of Assumed Business Name.
Can two businesses have the same name in Indiana?
Not as legal entity names. Indiana requires corporation, LLC, LP and LLP names to be distinguishable from other businesses on the Secretary of State's records.
General information, not legal advice. Name approval is decided by the Indiana Secretary of State, Business Services Division (INBiz); a name showing as available in a search is not a guarantee it will be accepted.