According to the 2024 Small Business Administration (SBA) report, Connecticut has 16,091 new businesses established between March 2022 and March 2023, with a net increase of 3,464.
The state hosts 365,824 small businesses, which account for 99.4% of all businesses in Connecticut. Leading sectors include Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (56,257 entities), Real Estate (41,657 entities), and Construction (38,769 entities). These businesses employ 678,339 people, making up 47% of the state’s workforce.
To gather information on these businesses, a Connecticut business entity search is required, which can be completed by following the steps below:
Visit the Business Records Search Page of the Connecticut Secretary of State
To search for Connecticut business entities, users should first visit “Connecticut’s Official State Website” at https://portal.ct.gov/sots. Once on the homepage, they can find the “Business Records Search” page maintained by the Connecticut Secretary of State (SOS) by scrolling down and selecting “Search a Business” under the “Popular Services” section.
Search Using Different Criteria
The Connecticut SOS’s Business Records Search portal enables users to locate registered entities through specific search criteria. Individuals can initiate their search by entering a business name, ALEI (Authoritative Legal Entity Identifier), or filing number in the dedicated search field. For precise results, users can select the “Search on Exact Name” option or utilize the advanced search feature. The advanced search in Connecticut’s business entity database offers several specific search criteria options through a dropdown menu. Users can search by:
- Business Name (default option)
- Business Address
- Business ALEI
- Filing Number
- Principal Name
- Agent Name
- Business City
To use the advanced search:
- Click on the “Business Name” dropdown menu.
- Select the desired search criterion from the list.
- Enter the corresponding information in the search field.
- Click the search icon (magnifying glass) to view the results.
View the Provided Business Records
Each search result displays the entity’s US-CT BER Number, full legal name, address, principal/s, agent, and current status (e.g, active, current, forfeited). For convenience, results can be sorted by name, ALEI number, or zip code using the available dropdown menu.
The search tool also has an additional filter on the left side of the page, allowing users to refine their search results by providing more specific criteria. Here are the available filters in Connecticut’s business entity search system:
- Date Filters:
- Business Start Date (MM/DD/YYYY)
- Business End Date (MM/DD/YYYY)
- Business Status:
- Active
- Cancelled
- Dissolved
- Forfeited
- Merged
- Revoked
- Withdrawn
- Business Sub Status:
- Current
- Overdue
- Delinquent
- Business Type:
- Domestic
- Foreign
- Entity Type:
- LLC
- LLP
- Stock Corp
- Non-Stock Corp
- Benefit Corp.
- Bank Non-Stock
- Bank Stock
- Credit Union Non-Stock
- Credit Union Stock
- Insurance Non-Stock
- Insurance Stock
- Statutory Trust
- Limited Partnership
- General Partnership
- Special Chartered
- Religious Corporation & Society
- Cooperative Association
View the Entity Details
To view more details about a specific entity, simply click anywhere on the record, and a new page will open. The initial section, titled “General Information,” will display key details, including:
- Business Name
- Business ALEID
- Business Status
- Public Substatus
- Date Formed
- Business Type
- Citizenship/Place of Formation
- Business Address
- Mailing Address
- Annual Report Due
- If Annual Filing is Required
- Last Report Filed
- NAICS Code
- NAICS Sub Code
- Principal Details
- Agent Details
Additionally, the page includes three expandable sections for further details about the entity:
- Filing History
- Name History
- Shares
These sections can be accessed by clicking the arrow next to each title.
Further Assistance About the Search
Users seeking additional help with Connecticut’s business entity search can contact the SOS office during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). Queries can be directed to the Division of Business Services by phone at (860) 509-6002 or via email at [email protected].
For urgent matters, users can visit the Connecticut SOS office in person at either the Capitol Office at 210 Capitol Avenue, Suite 104, or the 165 Office at 165 Capitol Avenue, Suite 1000, both located in Hartford, CT 06106. Each office maintains a dedicated staff to assist with business entity searches and related inquiries.
Why Do a Connecticut Entity Search?
Conducting a Connecticut entity search provides valuable insights and ensures compliance with state regulations. Whether checking a business’s legitimacy, gathering essential details, or making informed decisions, the search tool offered by the Connecticut SOS (Secretary of State) is a reliable resource. Below are reasons why a Connecticut entity search is essential:
- Confirm Business Legitimacy: A Connecticut entity search helps verify if a business is officially registered with the state. This confirmation avoids scams and ensures that the entity operates within the legal framework. Individuals and businesses can use this tool to establish trust in their professional dealings.
- Access Accurate Business Information: The search provides key information, such as the entity’s name, formation details, and operational status. This data is useful for those evaluating a business’s credibility or researching its history. Obtaining accurate information helps make informed decisions in different situations.
- Review Filing and Reporting Compliance: The entity search allows users to check whether a business has fulfilled its annual reporting and filing obligations. This insight helps assess the entity’s compliance with Connecticut’s legal requirements, which is especially relevant for stakeholders and potential investors.
- Track Name Availability for New Businesses: For those planning to establish a business in Connecticut, the search can determine if the desired name is already in use. Verifying name availability is a critical step in the registration process, helping prevent conflicts or rejections during formation.
- Investigate Agent and Principal Details: The tool provides information about the business’s registered agent and principals. This feature is particularly useful for identifying key decision-makers or verifying contact details for correspondence and legal purposes.
- Explore Filing and Name Histories: Through the search tool, users can explore an entity’s historical filings and previous names. This historical data offers insights into the entity’s changes over time, which assists those seeking to understand its evolution or past activities.
Who Holds Data for Connecticut Business Entity Search
In addition to the Connecticut SOS (Secretary of State), several other organizations and resources hold information relevant to Connecticut business entity searches. These include, among others, the following:
Connecticut Department of Revenue Services
The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) supports the search for Connecticut business entities by maintaining tax-related records for businesses registered in the state.
While the SOS office handles business registration and corporate data, the DRS holds crucial information about business tax filings, including sales tax, corporation tax, and withholding tax.
Individuals may need to consult the DRS for detailed tax records when verifying a business’s financial standing or compliance. Accessing this information helps ensure businesses are current on their tax obligations and can provide insights into their financial operations.
Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) oversees and regulates business activities related to consumer protection in Connecticut.
While it does not directly manage the business entity registration process, the DCP maintains licenses for specific businesses, such as those in the retail, health, and service industries. It also handles complaints and enforces regulations to ensure businesses comply with consumer protection laws.
Depending on their industry, businesses may be required to register with the DCP. The DCP’s data on licensed businesses helps ensure consumer safety and compliance with state regulations.
Accessing this information through the Connecticut Freedom of Information (FOI) request can reveal whether a business is authorized to operate and if it has a history of consumer complaints or violations.
Connecticut Department of Labor
The Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) holds valuable information about a business’s employment practices, including unemployment insurance claims, wage records, and employee classifications.
Businesses must register with the DOL to comply with state labor laws, including workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance requirements. Accessing DOL records can help verify whether a business is in good standing with employment regulations and ensure it complies with labor laws.
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) manages records related to environmental regulations and energy usage for businesses operating in the state.
Although DEEP is not directly involved in business entity registration, it oversees licenses, permits, and compliance for businesses that impact natural resources or require energy-related approvals. Their records can be accessed through the DEEP Document Online Search Portal.
Connecticut Open Data Portal
The Connecticut Open Data Portal provides public access to various datasets, including business records. It promotes transparency and allows users to explore data on topics like economic development, business licenses, and environmental information. Users can search, filter, and download business data maintained by state agencies directly from the portal.
Connecticut Judicial Branch
The Connecticut Judicial Branch handles business-related legal matters such as lawsuits, judgments, and legal disputes. Through its web platform, individuals can search court cases, review legal filings, and access public records involving businesses in Connecticut.
Federal Organizations
Federal organizations also hold business-related records for Connecticut businesses. Key federal organizations include:
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – Maintains records for publicly traded companies.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – Handles tax-related records for businesses, including tax filings and employer identification numbers (EIN).
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) – Manages trademark and patent filings.
Access to these records is available through their respective websites.
Town Clerks
Connecticut does not have strong county governments, and many local business-related records are maintained by town clerks rather than county clerks. In Connecticut, town clerks manage business name registrations, fictitious business name filings, permits, and other local requirements for businesses operating within their towns.
For business-related records, individuals should contact the town clerk’s office directly or visit the town’s official website. Many towns provide online access to these records for convenience.
Commercial Database Providers
Commercial database providers also offer access to business-related records for Connecticut businesses. These private companies aggregate and provide data from various public and private sources, including state and federal agencies. Their services often include information on company formation, financials, ownership details, and industry classifications. Some well-known commercial database providers include:
- Dun & Bradstreet: Offers commercial data, analytics, and insights for businesses.
- LexisNexis: Provides access to business records, legal filings, and more.
- Equifax: Specializes in business credit reports and financial data.
These providers typically charge a fee for access to detailed reports and records.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Connecticut?
Entrepreneurs in Connecticut have several business structure options when launching a business. Understanding these choices is essential for well-informed actions regarding liability, taxes, management, and expansion. In Connecticut, the following business entity types can be filed with the Business Services Division of the SOS (Secretary of State):
- Limited Liability Company (Domestic & Foreign): In Connecticut, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a business structure that combines the limited liability of a corporation with the flexibility of a partnership. Under the Connecticut Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, an LLC can be formed by filing a Certificate of Organization with the SOS. An operating agreement governs the LLC’s operations and outlines the management structure and financial arrangements. The owners, known as members, enjoy limited personal liability for the company’s debts.
- Corporation Stock (Domestic & Foreign): As a business entity, a stock corporation in Connecticut is a legal structure where ownership is divided into shares of stock. These shares are issued to shareholders, who have the potential to earn dividends and vote on corporate matters. Stock corporations are governed by the Connecticut Stock Corporation Act, which dictates how shares are issued, transferred, and managed. This structure provides limited liability to shareholders, meaning their personal assets are generally protected from business debts or legal claims against the corporation.
- Benefit Corporation (Domestic Only): A Connecticut benefit corporation is a unique type of corporation that focuses on social and environmental goals in addition to making a profit. It is legally required to generate a positive public benefit, such as helping low-income communities, protecting the environment, or improving public health. Benefit corporations must operate transparently, publish annual benefit reports, and consider the interests of various stakeholders in decision-making. Unlike traditional corporations, these companies may adopt a Legacy Preservation Provision to ensure their mission endures through changes in leadership or ownership.
- Corporation Non-Stock (Domestic & Foreign): A corporation non-stock in Connecticut is a nonprofit organization formed without capital stock or shares. It operates under the Connecticut Revised Nonstock Corporation Act, which provides a flexible corporate structure for lawful activities. Members cannot receive distributions, and the organization’s governance is defined by its bylaws or certificate of incorporation. These corporations are typically used for charitable, educational, or nonprofit purposes and are regulated to ensure they serve the public good.
- Limited Liability Partnership (Domestic & Foreign): A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) provides limited liability protection to its partners, similar to an LLC, while offering flexible management. Partners are generally not personally liable for the partnership’s debts, which protect their personal assets. LLPs are often used by professional service firms, like law firms, accounting practices, and medical groups, where partners contribute expertise but are not liable for each other’s actions.
- Limited Partnership (Domestic & Foreign): It consists of at least one general partner and one or more limited partners. The general partner manages the business and has full liability, while limited partners contribute capital and share in profits but have limited liability. LPs are governed by the Uniform Limited Partnership Act and provide flexibility for business ventures with passive investors.
- General Partnership (Domestic & Foreign): GP is one of the simplest forms of business organization in Connecticut. It involves two or more individuals or entities who agree to share profits, losses, and liabilities. While this structure offers ease of formation and flexibility, each partner in a general partnership is personally liable for the partnership’s debts and obligations.
- Religious Corporation or Society: In Connecticut, a religious corporation or society is formed when three or more individuals unite for public worship. A religious corporation can hold, manage, and acquire property for religious, charitable, or educational purposes and receive donations and bequests. These organizations are governed by their charter or bylaws, and members are not personally liable for the corporation’s debts. Religious societies can convert into corporations, with the transferred assets and liabilities carried over to the new entity.
- Statutory Trust (Domestic & Foreign): Lastly, a statutory trust in Connecticut is an unincorporated association created by a trust instrument to hold, manage, or invest property or carry out business activities for the benefit of its beneficial owners. It is considered a separate legal entity and must file a certificate of trust with the Connecticut SOS. The statutory trust can be organized for any lawful business or activity and is governed by specific provisions outlined in the Connecticut Statutory Trust Act.
Useful Additional Information on the Connecticut SOS Webpage
In addition to business entity searches, the Connecticut SOS (Secretary of State) offers the following resources and features on its official webpage for new and existing businesses:
Beneficial Ownership Information
Effective January 1, 2024, most businesses must file beneficial ownership information (BOI) with the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). This information has not been submitted to the Connecticut SOS, and the office cannot assist with BOI-related inquiries.
Online Filing
Business filings, including UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) filings, can now be completed through business.ct.gov. The site provides a user-friendly platform for submitting filings and checking the status of annual reports. An account is needed to access filing features.
Expedited Service
Expedited services are available through the online filing system (business.ct.gov) for business formations, registrations, and copy requests. This option is displayed before the payment screen during online submission to expedite the processing and return of documents.
Mail and Hand Delivery Filings
Though businesses can submit paper filings by mail or by hand delivery, it is strongly recommended that they file online for faster service. Paper submissions must comply with specific requirements, such as using checks or money orders for payment. Expedited service is not available for mail or hand-delivered filings.
Support Services
The webpage features a Support Ticket system that allows users to contact the office for assistance. Each support ticket guarantees a response via email.
Payment
Online filings can be paid using Mastercard, Visa, Discover, or Amex. For paper filings, payments must be made via check or money order. Note that credit card payments are no longer accepted for mailed or hand-delivered documents due to security concerns.
Business Entities FAQ
The webpage provides a comprehensive FAQ (Frequently-Asked Question) section addressing common questions regarding business formation, management, and compliance in Connecticut. This resource offers guidance on various business structures, requirements, and processes.
Notary Public Services
The webpage also offers access to Notary Public services. Users can search for notary public and access the notary roster to view lists of active and inactive notaries. This feature is especially useful for businesses requiring notarial services for documents.
Note: Select “Notary Public” from the license type field to narrow the search to notaries public only.
Trademarks
Connecticut businesses can protect their intellectual property through the Trade and Service Mark Records Search available on the webpage. The service page also provides forms for trademark filings, which help businesses safeguard their brand identity and intellectual assets.
Additional Services
Lastly, the webpage offers Bulk Data and Images for businesses that require large-scale access to business records and documents. It also provides Administrative Dissolution Notices, which inform businesses about the termination of their status in Connecticut.
Business Search FAQ
Discover helpful answers to common questions regarding business entity searches in Connecticut:
Can I Do Search With Only Part of the Business Name?
The Connecticut business entity search accepts partial names. Users can enter a portion of the business name, and the tool displays all matching entities.
How Often Is the Business Entity Data Updated?
Connecticut’s business entity data is updated regularly, typically within a few days of any changes like status updates or filed documents.
Are There Fees Associated With Using Connecticut’s Business Entity Search Tool?
The search tool is free for basic lookups, but there may be fees for accessing additional services like certified documents or detailed reports.
Is It Necessary to Register an Account To Perform a Connecticut Business Entity Search?
No, users can perform searches without registering an account. However, creating an account may be required for certain services, like changing the information displayed.
Are Foreign Entities Operating in Connecticut Searchable?
Yes, the Connecticut business entity search includes foreign entities registered to do business in the state. Users can find these entities by searching their registered name or other identifying details.
What Should I Do if I Can’t Find the Business Name I’m Searching for in Connecticut?
Verify the spelling or try alternate variations of the name. If results are still unavailable, contact the Connecticut SOS for assistance or to confirm whether the entity is properly registered in Connecticut.
What Should Be Done if Incorrect Information Appears in the Connecticut Business Entity Search?
If incorrect information is found, users should contact the Connecticut SOS office to request a correction or clarification or create an account on the tool to change the information displayed.
Can You Find Information About DBA or Sole Proprietorship on the Connecticut Entity Search?
The Connecticut business entity search does not provide information about sole proprietorships or DBAs (Doing Business As). These are typically registered at the local town level, not with the Connecticut SOS. Users must contact the relevant town clerk for such details.
Can the Entity Search Help Determine if a Business Name Is Reserved?
If the search returns no results, it may indicate that the business name is still available. However, this does not confirm the name is officially reserved, and individuals should still verify availability by contacting the Connecticut SOS office. Copyscape flagged four results (1%) for key terms related to limited partnership and beneficial ownership information.