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Name availability · KY

Kentucky business name search

Kentucky's Business Entity Search lets you choose Starts With, Contains or Exact, and it has an "Active only" box that is checked by default. Uncheck it to see inactive entities too. You can also confirm name availability in writing or by phone with the Secretary of State.

How to check if a name is available in Kentucky

  1. 01

    Open Business Entity Search

    Go to the Kentucky Secretary of State's Business Entity Search (sosbes.sos.ky.gov).

  2. 02

    Pick a match type

    Choose Starts With, Contains or Exact. Contains is the best first pass for spotting names that wrap yours in other words.

  3. 03

    Uncheck "Active only"

    The search shows only active entities by default. Uncheck the box to see inactive businesses that once used your name.

  4. 04

    Confirm availability with the office

    Kentucky says you can check a name's availability online, in writing or by phone. Use the formal route if your name is close to an existing one.

  5. 05

    Check trademarks and online handles

    Kentucky has its own trademark records, but also search federal marks at https://tmsearch.uspto.gov/ and check the domain and social handles.

  6. 06

    Generate alternatives

    If you need a new idea, our free /business-name-generator/ can suggest options to run through the Kentucky search.

Kentucky business naming rules

  • Any individual or entity doing business under a name other than its exact legal name must file a certificate of assumed name.
  • An assumed name is a "d/b/a," a name other than the entity's real name.
  • Assumed name registrations are effective for five years and can be renewed.
  • You can check a name's availability online, in writing, or by phone with the Secretary of State.

Reserving a name

Kentucky lets you reserve a business name for 120 days with an application for reservation of name, and the same form covers renewals. Check the current fee on the agency's site.

DBAs and trade names

Kentucky business entities file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Secretary of State. A sole proprietorship that uses a name without the owner's real name files its assumed name with the county clerk.

Still looking for the right name?

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

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Frequently asked questions

How do I search business names in Kentucky?

Use the Secretary of State's Business Entity Search with Starts With, Contains or Exact, and uncheck "Active only" to see inactive entities.

Where do I file a DBA in Kentucky?

Entities file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Secretary of State. Sole proprietors file with their county clerk.

How long does a Kentucky name reservation last?

120 days. You can renew using the same reservation application.

How long does a Kentucky assumed name last?

Five years from filing, and you can renew it.

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