The 2024 Small Business Administration (SBA) report showcases Delaware’s dynamic business landscape. From March 2022 to March 2023, 4,661 new business establishments opened, with a net increase of 895 entities. The state contains 104,457 small businesses, which make up 98.7% of all Delaware businesses.
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services ranks first with 15,371 entities, followed by Real Estate at 12,526 entities and Transportation at 12,169 entities. These businesses provide jobs to 201,082 people, which amounts to 49.2% of Delaware’s workforce.
To find information about these business entities, individuals can follow the steps below to perform a Delaware business entity search:
Access the Division of Corporations’ Business Entity Search Tool
To search for a business entity in Delaware, access the Division of Corporations’ business entity search tool under the Department of State. The tool can be accessed by visiting the Division of Corporations’ official website at https://corp.delaware.gov/.
On the homepage, navigate the search tool by scrolling down and clicking the “Search for a Business Entity” option under the “Services” section.
Search Using the Entity Name or File Number
To conduct a search, at least one required field must be completed. Users can enter either the business entity’s name or its file number issued by the Division of Corporations.
When using the entity name field, note that it is not case-sensitive, and quotation marks can be used for exact searches. After entering the necessary information, clicking the “Search” button will initiate the query.
Locate the Delaware Business Entity in the Search Results
The query results will be presented in a table capable of displaying up to 50 rows at a time. Users can identify the desired business entity by locating its file number and name within the table. To view information about a specific entity, simply select its name from the results.
Access the Delaware Business Entity Details
The Delaware business entity search provides comprehensive details about registered companies through an organized information display.
Each entity profile presents essential data organized in clear sections. At the top, users will find the file number, entity name, entity kind, and entity type. The system also displays the incorporation or formation date and residency status.
A dedicated section contains registered agent information, which includes the agent’s name, complete address (city, state, postal code, and contact phone number), and contact phone number.
For additional details like entity status, tax records, and filing history, users can access this information for $10 to $20. The interface also offers convenient options to return to search results or start a new entity search.
Further Assistance About the Search
The Delaware Division of Corporations offers multiple support channels for users who need help with business entity searches. Business owners and researchers can contact the office directly by phone during business hours for immediate assistance. The division also maintains a comprehensive FAQ section on its website.
For complex inquiries, users can submit written questions through email or schedule an appointment with a representative who can provide detailed guidance about the search process.
Why Do a Delaware Entity Search?
A Delaware entity search is an essential tool for anyone looking to understand the status of a business registered in the state. Whether an individual is an investor, business owner, or legal professional, knowing how to use this search can provide valuable insights. Below are some key reasons why performing a Delaware entity search is important:
- Confirm the Legal Status of a Business: Performing an entity search in Delaware allows users to confirm whether a business is legally registered with the state. Delaware requires companies to file with the Delaware Division of Corporations, and the search helps ensure a company is authorized to operate, which reduces the risk of working with entities that may not comply with state regulations.
- Prevent Legal and Financial Risks: A business entity search can prevent costly legal and financial issues in Delaware. By reviewing a company’s registration status, users can identify potential liabilities or discover if a business has unresolved legal matters. This crucial information protects individuals from entering into agreements with companies that could pose risks to their operations or investments.
- Understand the Company’s Structure and Governance: The Delaware entity search also provides insights into the company’s organizational structure. Whether a business is incorporated as a corporation or other entity type, this information helps users understand how the business operates. It is particularly helpful for investors or partners seeking to secure their interests aligned with the company’s structure.
- Investigate a Business’s History in Delaware: Through the entity search, users can examine a company’s historical filings and status updates. This provides a snapshot of how a business has evolved, including any changes in its name, structure, or ownership. A company’s past activities can influence potential business decisions and help users evaluate its stability.
- Make Informed Business Decisions: With the insights gained from a Delaware entity search, individuals and businesses can make informed decisions. Whether considering a new partnership, investment opportunity, or contract, the search results offer a clear picture of a company’s legal standing, financial history, and operational structure.
Who Holds Data for Delaware Business Entity Search
In addition to the Division of Corporations of the Delaware Department of State, several other organizations and resources hold information relevant to Delaware business entity searches. These include, among others, the following:
Delaware Division of Revenue
The Delaware Division of Revenue (DOR), part of the Delaware Department of Finance, oversees state tax policies and ensures businesses comply with tax laws to maintain good standing.
Records related to business tax registrations can be accessed through the DOR’s online portal. Business owners or authorized representatives can use this resource to verify tax status, file returns, and resolve any issues with state taxes.
Delaware Department of Labor
The Delaware Department of Labor (DOL) administers employment-related matters, including unemployment insurance, workforce development, and labor law compliance, and regulates Delaware businesses’ employment practices.
To access DOL records, contact the department directly or visit its website for relevant forms and instructions. Information related to unemployment claims, workers’ compensation, and labor law violations can be obtained by requesting records or inquiries through the department’s established contact channels.
Delaware Economic Development Authority
The Delaware Economic Development Authority (DEDA) supports business growth and economic development in the state. DEDA offers valuable resources, such as tax incentives, grants, and financing programs, to assist businesses. For relevant information, contact DEDA directly via their website or through the Delaware Division of Small Business.
Delaware State Court System
The Delaware State Court System, particularly the Court of Chancery, handles business-related legal matters. It maintains records of business litigation, including corporate disputes, mergers, acquisitions, and shareholder issues.
Business-related court records are accessible through the Delaware Courts website or by directly contacting the court for specific case information.
Delaware Public Archives
The Delaware Public Archives (DPA) preserves a wealth of historical records, including those related to Delaware businesses. It maintains archived documents such as incorporation papers and other important business records from the state’s history. These documents can provide valuable insights into the history of Delaware-based companies and their operations over time.
Access to these records is available through the DPA Portal or by visiting the Research Room in person. Researchers and business owners may utilize the archive’s resources for historical reference, legal research, or any other need related to Delaware’s business history.
Federal Organizations
In addition to state agencies, several federal organizations provide business-related records that may be relevant to Delaware business entity searches. These organizations include:
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The SEC maintains records for public companies, including filings and disclosures relevant to business operations and financials.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): The USPTO holds trademark and patent records, which can help identify intellectual property tied to Delaware entities.
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): While not directly related to business entity searches, the FBI may have records related to criminal investigations involving Delaware companies.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS maintains tax-related records, including those related to Delaware businesses, particularly for entities that file federal taxes.
- U.S. Bankruptcy Courts: These courts handle the legal proceedings for individuals and businesses filing for bankruptcy.
These federal organizations may provide additional information that complements state-level records from Delaware when conducting a comprehensive business entity search. Each of these federal organizations has specific online tools or resources or submission processes for accessing records, with varying levels of public access to the information they maintain.
County-Level Records Offices
County-level records offices in Delaware handle local business documents, including DBA (Doing Business As) registrations, permits, liens, and other legal filings. These offices are located in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties. Each county has a Prothonotary’s Office for DBA registrations and a Recorder of Deeds for corporate and property-related filings.
To access county-level business records in Delaware, individuals can visit the respective county office in person or check if they offer an online platform for searching and obtaining records.
Commercial Database Providers
Commercial database providers also offer business-related information, including entity data, financials, and legal filings for businesses operating in Delaware and other jurisdictions. They often consolidate records from various sources such as government agencies, public records, and private filings. Notable commercial database providers include:
- Dun & Bradstreet: Delivers commercial data, analytics, and business insights.
- LexisNexis: Grants access to business records, legal filings, and related information.
- Equifax: Focuses on business credit reports and financial information.
These services typically offer access through subscription-based platforms or pay-per-search models. Users can access the records directly through their websites, with some providers offering API services for deeper integration into business processes.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Delaware?
Delaware mainly offers seven distinct business structures, each designed to meet various organizational needs and goals. Exploring each option in detail helps individuals make an informed decision about which entity best aligns with their business objectives.
- Sole Proprietorship: Starting with the simplest structure, the Sole Proprietorship requires no registration and carries no filing fees, making it an attractive option for individual entrepreneurs. However, this simplicity comes with considerable risk, as the owner bears personal liability for all business debts, and all business income is treated as personal income for tax purposes. This structure is suitable for small, low-risk ventures but may not offer sufficient protection as the business expands.
- General Partnership: For those seeking collaborative ventures, the General Partnership (GP) allows two or more individuals or entities to join forces. Partners share control according to their partnership agreement and pay a $300 filing fee to the Department of State. While this structure offers operational flexibility, note that all partners bear joint and several liability for partnership debts, and income is taxed at personal or corporate rates based on each partner’s prorated share.
- Limited Partnership: The Limited Partnership (LP) introduces a two-tier structure that differentiates between general and limited partners. With the same $300 filing fee, this entity offers protection for limited partners, who are only liable up to their invested capital, while general partners maintain full liability and operational control. This structure particularly appeals to investors who want to participate in business ownership while limiting their liability and involvement in day-to-day operations.
- “C” Corporation: For those seeking the most traditional corporate structure, the “C” Corporation provides unlimited shareholder capacity and management through a Board of Directors. Filing fees vary based on authorized shares or assumed no-par capital. While offering robust liability protection, C-Corps face double taxation – first on corporate income and again when profits are distributed to shareholders. Still, this structure remains popular for businesses planning to go public or seek significant investment.
- Subchapter “S” Corporation: The Subchapter “S” Corporation maintains control and liability features similar to those of the C-Corp but eliminates double taxation. Income passes directly to shareholders and is taxed at personal rates, making it attractive for smaller corporations seeking tax efficiency while maintaining corporate benefits. Like C-Corps, filing fees depend on share structure.
- Limited Liability Company: The Limited Liability Company (LLC) stands out for its remarkable flexibility. With a $300 filing fee, LLCs can be formed with one or more members and offer liability protection similar to corporations. What makes LLCs particularly attractive is their tax flexibility – they can be treated as partnerships, corporations, or disregarded entities under “Check the Box” regulations, allowing owners to choose the most advantageous tax treatment.
- Limited Liability Partnership: The Limited Liability Partnership combines partnership benefits with liability protection for all partners. Its unique fee structure charges $200 per partner up to $120,000, making it popular among professional service firms. Both limited and general partners enjoy liability protection up to their capital investment while maintaining partnership tax treatment.
For detailed information on the process of selecting and forming a business entity in Delaware, read the “How to Form a New Business Entity” guide on the Delaware Division of Corporations website.
Useful Additional Information on the Delaware Division of Corporations Website
In addition to business entity searches, the Delaware Division of Corporations offers the following key services on its official website for new and existing businesses:
File Annual Report or Pay Franchise Tax
Delaware businesses must file an Annual Franchise Tax Report to remain in good standing. This filing is mandatory for all active corporations registered in Delaware. The deadline for submission is March 1st each year. Failure to file on time results in a $200 penalty, plus 1.5% monthly interest on both tax and penalty.
Also, Delaware requires LLCs, LPs, and GPs to pay a $300 annual franchise tax. This tax ensures these entities remain compliant with state laws. The tax is due by June 1st each year. Late payments result in the same penalty mentioned earlier.
For convenience, the Delaware Division of Corporations website provides an online platform for filing annual reports and paying taxes. Payment options include credit card and ACH electronic payments. The platform also offers troubleshooting resources for users experiencing issues during the filing process.
File a UCC (Uniform Commercial Code)
Delaware’s UCC filing service allows businesses to submit documents related to personal property transactions. This process secures liens and collateral agreements. The state accepts only electronic submissions through its e-UCC platform.
Document Filing and Certificate Request Service
Delaware offers a document filing and certificate request service for businesses. This service allows the submission of formation documents, amendments, and mergers. Business owners can also request certificates such as certificates of good standing.
This system operates online through the eCorp Business Services platform. Once a submission is processed, fees will be applied, and the requested documents will be sent to the user.
Check Entity Status
The Division of Corporations business entity search allows users to check the status of a business entity. This service provides two options: one for a simple status check and another for a more detailed status report, including franchise tax assessments and history. The basic option costs $10 and provides real-time status of the entity, which users can print or email.
For more comprehensive information, businesses can opt for the $20 status check, which includes the last five filings, tax assessments, and authorized shares, if applicable. However, the service does not provide access to documents such as annual reports or officer information.
Check Entity Name Availability
Before forming a new business entity in Delaware, it is important to verify the availability of the desired business name. Delaware offers an online Name Availability Search tool that allows businesses to search for available names in real-time. The system checks if the proposed name is already being used by another entity or if it complies with the state’s naming rules.
Validate a Certificate
The Delaware Division of Corporations now offers an online service to validate and verify the authenticity of certificates issued by the state. This process is important for ensuring that documents, such as certificates of good standing, are legitimate and have not been tampered with.
To validate a certificate, users must enter the corporate file number and authentication number from the certificate. Note that a certificate can only be validated for one year from the date it was issued.
Delaware Business Search FAQ
Learn more about Delaware business entity searches with answers to frequently asked questions below:
Can I Search for a Delaware Business Entity Using Partial Information?
Yes, the search tool allows users to input partial entity names. This feature is useful when the full name is unknown. However, broader results may require more filtering.
Can You Identify if a Business Entity Is in Good Standing in the Search Tool?
The Delaware entity search tool provides basic details about a business but explicitly states, “THIS IS NOT A STATEMENT OF GOOD STANDING.” Verifying good standing requires purchasing the status for a $10 fee.
Does Delaware’s Search Tool Support International Business Entities?
Yes, it includes foreign entities registered to do business in Delaware. These entities are noted as “Foreign” along with their jurisdiction of origin.
Can I Find Inactive Entities ?
The business entity search tool allows users to search for inactive Delaware entities. However, it does not explicitly indicate if an entity is inactive. Users may need to request additional details for a fee to obtain more detailed information, including the entity’s status or filing history.
Are There Restrictions on Accessing Certain Entity Details?
While basic details are free, sensitive information like ownership or financials may be restricted or require proof of legitimate interest and additional fees.
How Often Is the Delaware Business Entity Database Updated?
The Delaware business entity database is updated in real-time, so the information provided reflects the most current data available at the time of the search.
What Should I Do if I Can’t Find the Business Name I’m Searching for in Delaware?
If a business name isn’t found in Delaware, the user should check spelling, try variations, verify availability, or contact the Delaware Division of Corporations. They may also perform a trademark search or consult an attorney.
What Should Be Done if Incorrect Information Appears in the Delaware Business Entity Search?
If incorrect information appears in the Delaware business entity search, the user should contact the Delaware Division of Corporations for assistance. They may need to file corrections or update their entity records accordingly.
Are DBAs Searchable in Delaware’s Business Entity Search?
No, the tool only lists entities registered with the Division of Corporations. DBAs must be searched through local county offices.
Can I Search Delaware Trademark on Delaware Business Entity Search?
The Delaware business entity search cannot be used for trademark searches. To search for trademarks, use the USPTO database or contact the Delaware Division of Corporations for assistance with state-registered trademark information.
Can You Reserve a Business Name Using the Delaware Business Entity Search Tool?
No, the Delaware business entity search tool does not allow users to reserve business names. To reserve a business name, use the Name Availability Search tool on the Delaware Division of Corporations website and pay a $75 fee per reservation.