Georgia’s business sector demonstrated remarkable growth, as documented by the Small Business Administration (SBA) 2024 report. The state recorded 44,718 new business launches and 37,403 closures from March 2022 to March 2023, which resulted in 7,315 net new establishments. Small businesses constitute 99.7% of all Georgia enterprises, with 1.3 million active operations. The top three sectors include Other Services (except Public Administration) at 176,789 entities, Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services at 159,479, and Administrative, Support, and Waste Management at 148,617.
A Georgia business entity search, which can be performed through the following steps, will reveal specific details about these companies: Visit Georgia’s Business Entity Search Page To search for a Georgia-registered business entity, access the business entity search tool of the Georgia Secretary of State Corporations Division. The tool can be accessed by visiting the Secretary of State’s official website at https://sos.ga.gov/.
On the homepage, navigate the search tool by selecting “Business” from the top menu. From there, choose the “Search for a Business” option to access the entity search tool.
Search Using Different Criteria To perform a Georgia business search, users must first select the appropriate criteria. Several options are available, including:
- Business Name
- Control Number
- Registered Agent Name
- Officer Name
Searchers can further refine their queries using three matching options:
- Starts With
- Contains
- Exact Match
Once all criteria are defined, the “Search” button should be selected to initiate the search process.
Locate the Georgia Business Entity in the Search Results After conducting a search, users will encounter a comprehensive results table displaying detailed information about Georgia business entities. Each row displays key information about a business, including:
- Business Name
- Control Number
- Business Type
- Principal Office Address
- Registered/Designated Agent Name
- Status
The results are organized in a paginated format, showing 25 entries per page, with navigation options at the bottom. Searchers can quickly assess an entity’s standing through the Status column, which indicates various conditions such as “Active,” “Revoked,” or “Admin Dissolved.”
Access the Georgia Business Entity Details To access details about a specific entity, users can click the business name within the search results. The system presents a detailed profile organized into primary sections: Business Information and Registered Agent Information. The Business Information section displays key data like the following:
- Business Name
- Control Number
- Business Type
- Business Status
- NAICS Code
- NAICS Sub Code
- Principal Office Address
- State of Formation or Jurisdiction
- Date of Formation / Registration Date
- Last Annual Registration Year
Meanwhile, the Registered Agent Information provides agent details and physical location. Depending on the business structure, additional sections appear. For instance, partnerships include General Partner Information, which displays the names, titles, and business addresses of all partners. The bottom navigation options also allow users to explore Filing History, Name History, or return to business search.
Further Assistance About the Search
For further assistance with the Georgia business entity search, individuals may contact the Corporations Division of the Georgia Secretary of State. The office address is 2 MLK Jr. Drive, Suite 313, Floyd West Tower, Atlanta, Georgia 30334-1530. Support is also available by phone at (404) 656-2817 or online through the Corporations Division’s official webpage. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Staff can provide clear answers to questions or issues related to the search process.
Reasons to Do a Georgia Entity Search?
A Georgia entity search provides valuable insights into a business’s registration, status, and operational details. It helps individuals and businesses ensure that they are dealing with legitimate and reliable entities. Below are several reasons why conducting a Georgia business entity search is beneficial:
- Verify Business Registration – Conducting a Georgia entity search verifies that a business is properly registered with the state. The search confirms the legitimacy of the business and its compliance with Georgia’s legal requirements. It provides access to official records and helps individuals or companies validate the entity’s status before engaging in any transactions.
- Access Contact Information – The search tool provides detailed contact information, including the principal office address and registered agent. Accurate details allow individuals to establish direct communication with the business, which promotes clarity and builds trust in any business dealings or inquiries.
- Confirm Registered Agent Details – Registered agents serve as the official point of contact for legal documents and notices. Verifying this information through the search tool establishes accountability and helps with proper contact for legal matters.
- Explore Business History – Historical records, such as changes in ownership or amendments to registration, are accessible through the search tool. Knowing the entity’s history helps users assess its reliability over time.
- Research Similar Businesses – The search tool also helps individuals avoid confusion or potential legal conflicts by finding businesses with similar names or services. This feature helps entrepreneurs confirm the uniqueness of their business name when registering in Georgia.
- Identify Market Trends – By using the entity search tool, users can explore trends in business formation, industry growth, and sector activity in Georgia. Analyzing the number and types of businesses registered in various industries helps individuals identify emerging market opportunities and shifts in consumer demand.
- Verify Financial Standing – Lastly, the Georgia entity search can help users assess a business’s stability by identifying its operational status. A business with unresolved legal disputes or ongoing financial issues may pose a threat to other companies or individuals. Being aware of a business’s financial health reduces the risk of partnership breakdowns.
Who Holds Data of Businesses in Georgia
Along with the Corporations Division of the Georgia Secretary of State, various organizations and resources provide relevant information for Georgia business entity searches. These include, but are not limited to:
State, County and Local Orgs
- Georgia Department of Revenue – The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) is a key resource for business-related records and information in the state. It administers tax-related matters for businesses, including sales tax, corporate income tax, and other business tax filings. To access DOR business records related to tax compliance or registration, individuals can follow the instructions provided on its Information and Records Requests service page.
- Georgia Department of Labor – The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) oversees employment-related matters, including business registrations for unemployment insurance, workforce development, and compliance with state labor laws. Interested individuals can use the online portals and resources on the GDOL official website to access GDOL records or information.
- Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner – The Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner regulates and licenses insurance companies and professionals, investigates insurance fraud, and conducts fire safety inspections for buildings. Through their License Lookup tool, users can verify whether an insurance professional, agency, or company holds a valid license in Georgia.
- Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division – The Georgia Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division handles professional businesses, including those in the healthcare, legal, and construction sectors, and maintains relevant licensure records, which can be searched online.
- Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA) – The Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA) is an organization that holds certain business-related records to support the clerks of the superior courts in their administrative duties. While its primary focus is on real estate documents, it also provides unified access to filings relevant to business operations, such as UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) filings, liens, and other legal documents associated with business activities. These records can be searched and obtained through the GSCCCA’s online tools.
- County Clerks of Superior Court Offices – The County Clerks of Superior Court Offices in Georgia record and maintain UCC filings, trade names/DBAb (Doing Business As) registrations, and liens at the county level. To access these records, individuals can visit the clerk’s office in person or use the county’s online system, where available. Some counties may offer online databases on their official websites to search for public documents, including business filings and legal notices.
- County Tax Assessors – County Tax Assessors in Georgia hold records related to business personal property tax assessments. These records include details about the value of equipment, machinery, and other personal property owned by businesses for tax purposes. To access business personal property tax records, individuals can visit the local County Tax Assessor’s office in person or check their online portal, if available.
- Local Municipalities – Local municipalities in Georgia maintain records related to business licenses, permits, and zoning. In addition to contacting the municipality’s office directly, many local governments provide online tools to search for their records.
- Commercial Database Providers – Apart from government sources, commercial database providers offer comprehensive business-related records, often compiling information from multiple public sources, including state and federal agencies. These databases provide access to details such as company registrations, financial records, legal filings, and more. To access these records, users typically need to subscribe to the provider’s service or pay a fee per search. Some well-known commercial database providers include Dun & Bradstreet, LexisNexis, and Experian (also employed by the Corporations Division of the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office for business identity verification).
Federal Organizations
In addition to state agencies, several federal organizations provide information and records relevant to business entity searches in Georgia. These organizations manage various aspects of business registration, taxation, compliance, and public records on a national level. Some key federal agencies include:
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The SEC maintains records related to publicly traded companies, including corporate filings, financial statements, and disclosures.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS oversees federal tax records for businesses, including tax identification numbers (TIN), tax filings, and compliance with federal tax laws.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): The USPTO provides access to business-related intellectual property records, including trademark and patent registrations.
- U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): The U.S. DOL manages records related to business compliance with federal labor laws, including wage and hour regulations, employment standards, and workplace safety.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC enforces federal consumer protection and antitrust laws and holds records related to business practices, mergers, and acquisitions.
Each of these agencies provides online databases and resources on their official websites to search and retrieve business-related information efficiently.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Georgia?
In Georgia, businesses need to select an appropriate legal entity structure that aligns with their operational needs, liability concerns, and tax preferences. The state mainly recognizes five business entity types, each with distinct characteristics and requirements.
Sole Proprietorship
The sole proprietorship is the least regulated and most common type of business in Georgia. The owner has complete control over the business, but this also creates succession issues, as the business ends upon the owner’s death. In this entity type, both business and personal assets are at risk because creditors can place liens on personal property. The tax structure is simple, with business income reported directly on the owner’s personal tax return. While administrative duties are minimal, the business must obtain local licenses and register trade names with the county where it primarily operates.
General Partnership
A general partnership is formed when two or more individuals come together to operate a business for profit. The partnership agreement outlines how management rights and profits are shared, but each partner has the right to participate in the business operations. No state registration is required to form a general partnership. However, partners face joint and several unlimited personal liability, meaning one partner’s actions can result in liability for all partners. The partnership is a pass-through entity, so each partner reports their share of income, losses, deductions, and credits on their personal tax returns. While no formal meetings or state filings are necessary unless the partnership elects LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) status, business licenses and permits are still required.
Limited Partnership
Limited partnerships in Georgia include both general and limited partners, offering a unique structure where limited partners can exercise control without assuming personal liability—a notable advantage compared to other jurisdictions. The partnership agreement outlines the rights of all partners, with general partners having the authority to bind the partnership. General partners, however, are exposed to unlimited liability unless the partnership elects LLLP (Limited Liability Limited Partnership) status or uses a corporation as the general partner. Limited partners are only at risk for their investment. This structure typically avoids entity-level taxation unless the partnership opts for corporate treatment. To form a limited partnership in Georgia, partners must register with the Secretary of State and create a partnership agreement. Still, the structure does not require extensive filing or record-keeping obligations.
Corporation
A corporation exists as a distinct legal entity through the Secretary of State filing. The structure divides ownership (shareholders), governance (directors), and management (officers), although in smaller corporations, these roles are often combined. Corporate status protects personal assets from business liabilities, provided personal and business affairs are kept separate. However, standard corporations face double taxation: first on corporate income and again on dividends paid to shareholders. S corporations can avoid double taxation by electing pass-through taxation, provided they meet specific criteria, such as having no more than 75 qualifying shareholders. Corporate administrative requirements include maintaining records, filing tax returns, and completing annual state registrations, which can add to accounting and legal expenses.
Limited Liability Company
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) offers the liability protection of a corporation while providing the tax flexibility of a partnership. Members can either manage the LLC themselves or appoint managers, with their rights specified in the operating agreement. This structure protects personal assets and limits financial risk to the capital invested, much like a corporation. Multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships, while single-member LLCs are treated as disregarded entities for tax purposes, though they can opt for corporate taxation. Formation requires Articles of Organization filing with detailed operating agreements governing internal affairs. The administrative process mirrors corporate requirements but allows more structural flexibility through the operating agreement. For detailed information on the process of selecting and forming a business entity in Georgia, check the “How to Guide: Register a Domestic Entity” and “How to Guide: Register a Foreign Entity” on the official website of the Secretary of State.
Useful Additional Information on the Georgia Secretary of State’s Website
Besides business entity searches, the Georgia Secretary of State provides several essential services for both new and established businesses on its official website.
eCorp System
The eCorp system is an online platform provided by the Georgia Secretary of State’s Corporations Division to facilitate business filings and services. It allows registered individuals and business owners to submit various business-related documents, such as incorporating a business, filing annual reports, reinstating an entity, updating business records, and more. To create an account on the system, follow the procedures outlined in the Online Services User Guide.
Search Service of Process Filings
The Service of Process Search tool on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website allows users to search for service of process filings related to legal actions involving various entities, such as corporations, LLCs, and limited partnerships. Users can search by defendant name, plaintiff name, civil action number, or control number, with options for “Starts With,” “Contains,” or “Exact Match” to refine their search results.
Search the Trademark and Service Mark Database
The Trademark and Service Mark Database allows users to search for trademarks and service marks registered with the Georgia Secretary of State. The database enables searches by various criteria, including registration number, mark name, registrant name, class of goods, class of services, identification of goods and services, and mark description. Users can refine searches with options such as “Starts With,” “Contains,” or “Exact Match” to find relevant results.
First Stop Business Guide
The First Stop Business Guide from the Office of the Secretary of State of Georgia provides helpful resources and insights for entrepreneurs and businesses in the state. The guide covers a wide range of topics, including business licenses, corporate filings, tax information, trademarks, copyrights, labor laws, financing opportunities, and resources for minority business owners. The guide also provides contact information for various state agencies and organizations that assist entrepreneurs in Georgia.
Business Forms
The Georgia Business Forms page provides downloadable PDF forms for business registration and related processes. Forms include applications for various business entities (LLC, Corporation, LLP, etc.), filing templates for annual registrations, and documents for trademark registration, name changes, and dissolutions. Additional forms cover NAICS code updates, email address changes, and service of process. The page also provides filing procedures, transmittal forms, and reference documents to help Georgia businesses efficiently manage their legal requirements.
Filing Fees
Detailed information about filing fees is also provided on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website. The filing fees for Georgia’s Corporations Division are non-refundable and non-transferable. The processing time varies, with online filings typically completed within 7-10 business days and paper filings within 15 business days. Expedited services are available at additional fees, such as Two Business Days Expedited Service for $120, Same Day Expedited Service for $275, and One Hour Expedited Service for $1,200. Payment methods include credit cards, checks, and money orders, but cash is not accepted.
Georgia Business Search FAQ
For business owners and entrepreneurs, the Business Division FAQ on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website delivers important guidance. It covers topics such as entity types, annual registrations, registered agents, dissolution processes, amendments, mergers, trademarks and service marks, and name availability and restrictions.
FAQ
Discover more about business entity searches in Georgia by exploring the frequently asked questions below:
Can I Search for a Business Without Knowing Its Full Name?
Yes, the Georgia entity search allows partial names with “Starts With” or “Contains” options, making it easier to find businesses with incomplete name details.
Can I Search for Multiple Businesses at Once?
No, Georgia’s business entity search tool allows users to search for one business at a time based on specific criteria, such as name or control number.
Are Inactive Businesses Included in the Georgia Entity Search Results?
Yes, the search tool includes both active and inactive businesses. Inactive entities will display a status like “Dissolved” or “Revoked.”
Is There a Cost To Use the Business Entity Search Tool?
No, Georgia’s online business entity search tool is free to access and use for the public.
Are There Time Restrictions for Using the Georgia Entity Search Tool?
No, the online tool is available 24/7 for continuous access to business information.
How Frequently Is the Database Updated?
The Georgia entity search database is updated daily. It provides accurate and current business information, including recent filings and status changes.
Does the Tool Include Businesses Registered in Georgia but Headquartered Elsewhere?
Yes, out-of-state businesses registered to operate in Georgia appear in the search results along with their formation state.
Can I Download Search Results or Business Profiles?
No, the system does not currently allow users to download data. However, users can manually copy or print relevant details.
What Happens if a Business Name Is Unavailable in the Search?
If no results appear, it may indicate the business is unregistered or not using the entered name. Double-check the spelling or try alternative search criteria.
Is the Georgia Entity Search the Same as a Name Availability Search?
No, the Georgia entity search is not the same as a name availability search. The tool is intended to provide information about registered entities, not to confirm name availability.
Can You Reserve a Business Name Using the Georgia Business Entity Search Tool?
No, the Georgia business entity search tool does not allow reserving a business name. To reserve a name, individuals must file online through the eCorp System or submit a completed Name Reservation Request form to the Corporations Division. The fee for online filing is $30, while paper submissions cost $35.