Name availability · PA
Pennsylvania business name search
Pennsylvania's Business Search on file.dos.pa.gov shows every business association and fictitious name on the Department of State's records. Act 122 of 2022 simplified the rules: a new name has to be distinguishable from other covered associations' names. Until administrative dissolutions start in 2028, older inactive names may still block yours.
How to check if a name is available in Pennsylvania
- 01
Search file.dos.pa.gov
Open the Business Search and enter your main words. Use "Advanced" to filter by entity type. The page also shows how current the processed filings are.
- 02
Don't rely on dropping "Inc." or "LLC"
Removing a designator doesn't make a fictitious name distinguishable from an existing association's name, so check the bare version of every result.
- 03
If an old company holds your name, ask DOS
If a blocking association seems to be out of business and you can't get its consent, email the Department of State asking about that specific name. If it's available, they'll reply with a Name Availability Certificate.
- 04
Check federal trademarks
PA fictitious names give no exclusive rights, so search tmsearch.uspto.gov for registered marks before you invest in a brand.
- 05
Check domains and socials, then iterate
Look up matching domains and handles. If you need more choices, our free tool at /business-name-generator/ can generate ideas to test on file.dos.pa.gov.
Pennsylvania business naming rules
- A covered association's name must be distinguishable on the Department of State's records from other covered associations' names, unless the existing one consents, has filed out of existence or failed to file for three years in a row, or has abandoned its name.
- Fictitious names must be distinguishable from registered association names, and removing a designator like Inc., LLC or Company doesn't count.
- A fictitious name can't include "corporation," "incorporated," "limited" or an abbreviation unless at least one registrant is a corporation.
- Anyone doing business under a name other than their real or proper name, including sole proprietors, must register it as a fictitious name. Using your full personal name doesn't require registration.
Reserving a name
Pennsylvania offers a Name Reservation/Transfer of Reservation form (15-208) for holding a name before you file. Check the current fee on the Department of State's site.
DBAs and trade names
Fictitious names (DBAs) are registered statewide with the Department of State, not the county. Pennsylvania says they haven't been filed at the county seat since the early 1980s. Registration gives no exclusive right to the name.
Still looking for the right name?
Brainstorm dozens of options with the free generator, then run your shortlist through the Pennsylvania search above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I search business names in Pennsylvania?
Use the Department of State's Business Search on file.dos.pa.gov. It covers corporations, LLCs, partnerships and fictitious names.
Do I register a DBA with my county in Pennsylvania?
No. Fictitious names are registered with the Department of State, and haven't been filed at the county seat since the early 1980s. There are also advertising requirements.
Can two Pennsylvania businesses use the same fictitious name?
Yes. Registering a fictitious name doesn't create an exclusive right, and others can register the same one.
An inactive company has the name I want in PA. What can I do?
Try to get its consent. If you can't reach it and think it's no longer doing business, email the Department of State about that name. If it's available, they'll send a Name Availability Certificate.
General information, not legal advice. Name approval is decided by the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations; a name showing as available in a search is not a guarantee it will be accepted.