Connecticut Business Entity Search: Ultimate Guide for 2025

If you’re starting a business, managing an existing one, or just conducting corporate research in Connecticut, the Connecticut Business Entity Search is your gateway to essential legal and business information. Whether you’re verifying a company’s legitimacy or checking name availability for your LLC, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every detail, making your experience seamless and efficient.

What is the Connecticut Business Entity Search?

The Connecticut Business Entity Search is an online tool provided by the Connecticut Secretary of the State that allows users to search the public database of all registered business entities in Connecticut. This includes LLCs, corporations, limited partnerships, non-profits, and more.

It’s used for:

• Verifying a business’s legal status

• Checking for name availability before registration

• Reviewing company registration details

• Accessing annual reports, principals, and agent information

• Confirming registration status for vendors, contractors, and legal compliance

Why Use the Connecticut Business Entity Search Tool?

Using this tool ensures transparency and accountability in business dealings. Here’s why it matters:

• Confirm legitimacy: Make sure the business is in good standing and legally registered.

• Avoid name conflicts: When registering a new entity, verify your desired business name isn’t already taken.

• Investigate competitors: Understand more about your competitors by examining their corporate structure and filings.

• Legal compliance: Ensure a vendor or partner complies with state regulations.

How to Perform a Connecticut Business Entity Search

You can perform a Connecticut Business Entity Search through the official website of the Connecticut Secretary of the State Business Services Division.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the Connecticut Business Records Search portal

   • Go to the CT Business Search Portal

2. Choose Your Search Criteria

   • You can search by:

     • Business Name

     • Business ALEI (Unique Entity ID)

     • Filing Number

     • Principal Name

     • Agent Name

     • Business Address

   • The most common method is by Business Name.

3. Input Search Terms

   • Type the business name or keywords. Partial searches are allowed. The system will show all matching results.

4. Review Results

   • Each result displays:

     • Business Name

     • Business ALEI

     • Status (Active, Inactive, Dissolved, etc.)

     • Business Type

     • Date of Formation

5. Click for Full Details

   • Click the business name to access full information including:

     • Principal names

     • Registered agent

     • Annual reports filed

     • Business address

     • Filing history

Understanding the Search Results

Here’s what each field means in your Connecticut business entity search results:

• Business Name: The legally registered name of the business in Connecticut.

• ALEI (Authorized Legal Entity Identifier): A unique code identifying each business.

• Business Type: LLC, Corporation, Partnership, Non-Profit, etc.

• Status: Shows if the business is active, dissolved, or delinquent.

• Formation Date: Date when the business was officially registered.

• Principal & Agent Info: Lists those responsible for the business’s operation and its legal representative in Connecticut.

How to Reserve a Business Name in Connecticut

If your Connecticut business entity search confirms that your desired business name is available, you can reserve it online.

Steps to Reserve a Name

1. Visit the Connecticut Business Services Online Filing System

2. Create or log into your account

3. Choose Name Reservation from the filings menu

4. Pay the reservation fee (as of 2025, it is $60)

5. Your name will be reserved for 120 days

How to Register a New Business in Connecticut

Once you have completed your Connecticut Business Entity Search and confirmed availability, follow these steps to register:

Registering Online

1. Go to the Business One Stop portal

2. Choose your business structure (LLC, Corporation, etc.)

3. Complete the required forms:

   • Certificate of Organization (for LLCs)

   • Certificate of Incorporation (for Corporations)

4. Submit your Registered Agent details

5. Pay the filing fee (varies by entity type; LLCs: $120, Corporations: $250)

6. Receive your Certificate of Registration

How to Maintain a Business Entity in Connecticut

File Annual Reports

All Connecticut entities must file an Annual Report to maintain good standing.

• Due Date: By the end of the anniversary month of registration

• Fee: Typically $80 for LLCs, $150 for Corporations

• File Online: Through the CONCORD system

Update Business Information

You must update:

• Business Address

• Registered Agent

• Principal Names
  If any change occurs, file an Amendment using the online filing system.

How to Check Business Compliance Status

To ensure a business is in good standing:

1. Perform a Connecticut Business Entity Search

2. Look for:

   • Status: Should be “Active”

   • Annual Report: Filed on time

   • No pending administrative dissolution

You can also order a Certificate of Legal Existence for official confirmation (fee: $50).

Business Entity Types Recognized in Connecticut

Understanding your options when registering a business in Connecticut is crucial:

• LLC (Limited Liability Company): Best for flexibility and liability protection

• C Corporation: Suitable for companies seeking outside investors

• S Corporation: Tax benefits for smaller businesses

• Non-Profit Corporation: Tax-exempt status for charitable organizations

• Limited Partnership (LP): Combines general and limited partners

• Sole Proprietorship (requires Trade Name registration)

How to Contact the Connecticut Secretary of the State

Business Services Division
Connecticut Secretary of the State
P.O. Box 150470, Hartford, CT 06115-0470
Phone: (860) 509-6003
Email: crd@ct.gov
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Connecticut Business Entity Search free to use?

Yes, the tool is completely free and available to the public.

Can I register a business without a registered agent?

No, every business entity in Connecticut must maintain a registered agent with a Connecticut address.

How long does it take to process a business registration?

Online filings are generally processed within 2–3 business days.

What happens if I don’t file the annual report?

Failure to file will result in the administrative dissolution of your business by the Secretary of State.

Conclusion

A proper understanding of the Connecticut Business Entity Search system is vital for business transparency, legal compliance, and successful formation or maintenance of your company. From verifying existing entities to registering a new LLC or Corporation, everything starts with this indispensable tool.

Take advantage of Connecticut’s user-friendly digital tools to empower your entrepreneurial journey and stay in good legal standing at every stage of business growth.