The 2024 Small Business Profile Report of the Small Business Administration (SBA) highlights the dynamic business environment in Louisiana. Between March 2022 and March 2023, 13,172 new business entities were established.
Louisiana is home to 498,183 small businesses, which make up 99.5% of all businesses in the state. Leading the way in terms of sectors are Other Services (except Public Administration), with 66,662 entities, followed by Administrative, Support, and Waste Management with 55,287 entities, and Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services with 54,445 entities.
Together, these businesses employ approximately 867,000 individuals, which represents 54.5% of Louisiana’s workforce.
For more in-depth information on these business entities, conducting a Louisiana business entity search is essential. Below are the steps to follow in order to access this detailed data.
Go to the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Website
To locate information about a Louisiana business, one can start by visiting the official website of the Louisiana Secretary of State (SOS) at www.sos.la.gov. Once on the homepage, navigate to the “Business Services” section in the header and click “Search for Louisiana Business Filings.”
On the following page, select “Continue to Louisiana Business Filings search page.” This step will prompt users to access the business entity search tool for Louisiana.
Search Using the Available Options
Exploring Louisiana business entities can be efficiently done via different searchable categories in the official state database. Users can search using entity names, charter details, trade registration or reservation numbers, and officer or agent names.
Search Tips
- When searching using entity names, input the complete name of the entity and include as many specific words from the name as possible.
- When searching using officer or agent names, enter the full first and last name or use the last name and at least the first initial.
Select an Entity from the Search Results
Upon entering data into the search page and clicking the search button, the system will produce a roster of entities corresponding to the query. The list will display the following details:
- Entity Name
- Entity Type
- Entity City
- Entity Status (active entities are denoted in bold within their names)
View the Entity Details
Users can click the “Details” button corresponding to the specific entity to view detailed information about a particular business entity. The resulting details page will reveal the following information:
- Entity Name, Type, Location, and Status
- Previous Name
- Charter Number
- Registration Date
- Domicile and Mailing Address
- Registered Agent’s Name, Address, and Appointment Date
- Officer’s Name, Address, and Title
- Entity’s Amendment on File
In addition to the information mentioned above, the details page allows users to buy certificates or certified copies of business entity filings or print detailed records through the options found at the top of the page.
Further Assistance About the Search
For additional help with locating Louisiana business entities, individuals can reach out to the Louisiana SOS office using the contact details provided on their website. The dedicated team at the office is equipped to provide personalized assistance related to inquiries about particular businesses registered within the state. They are available to assist with queries about business entity filings and other detailed information that may not be readily available online.
Why Do a Louisiana Entity Search?
Performing a business entity search in Louisiana can help individuals and organizations seeking to conduct business operations in the state. This search provides access to detailed information about current businesses that can aid in making strategic business choices. Some of the primary advantages of conducting a business entity search in Louisiana are:
- Confirming Business Existence and Legitimacy: Through a business entity search, individuals can confirm if an entity is legally registered and operating in Louisiana. This search process is vital for evaluating a business’s authenticity since it reveals businesses complying with state laws. As a result, it can help minimize risks associated with fraudulent or unregistered entities in business dealings.
- Researching Competitors or Partners: Since an entity search in Louisiana provides information about businesses, such as their status, filings, and business structure, it can help understand the competitive landscape of a particular industry and identify potential market gaps. The information obtained from this search can also aid in evaluating the risks and advantages of making partnerships or other business decisions.
- Checking Name Availability: A Louisiana entity search reveals all legally registered entities and their business names. This information helps entrepreneurs by confirming their desired business name is unique and not already in use, which can prevent trademark conflicts. Simultaneously, this can help individuals create a unique business identity for their companies to gain an edge in a competitive market.
- Assessing Business Compliance: Conducting a business entity search in Louisiana helps assess a business’s compliance by confirming whether it is in good standing with the state. It verifies if the entity has met annual reporting and tax obligations, which can help potential partners or investors by knowing they are dealing with a legally compliant and reputable entity.
- Identifying Registered Agents: An entity search in Louisiana also reveals a business’s registered agent. With this information, individuals can ensure effective communication and facilitate reaching the business when necessary, which is essential for legal notifications and the service of process.
- Tracking Entity Dissolutions: Another reason to conduct a business entity search in Louisiana is to confirm if a business has dissolved or is inactive. This helps avoid agreements with inactive entities, protects entrepreneurs from legal or financial issues, and ensures partnerships or investments involve active, legitimate businesses.
Where to Find Data About Louisiana Entities
Apart from the Louisiana Secretary of State, multiple state officials and departments possess relevant data concerning business entities. These encompass:
Louisiana Department of Revenue
The Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDR) is the regulatory body overseeing the implementation and enforcement of the state’s tax regulations. This department meticulously maintains a repository of business entity data encompassing various tax categories, such as sales and use tax, corporate income and franchise tax, and withholding tax.
The LDR offers the Louisiana Taxpayer Access Point (LaTAP) that facilitates access to businesses’ tax-related records. Moreover, LaTAP extends its utility by facilitating business registration, inquiry submissions, and verification of resale credentials.
Louisiana Workforce Commission
The Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC) is a state agency that enhances job opportunities, supports employers, and manages unemployment insurance, workforce training, and labor regulations. It holds records of businesses that register for unemployment insurance and payroll taxes and tracks employers’ reports of employee wages and contributions.
Business-related records held by the LWC are accessible through the Helping Individuals Reach Employment (HiRE) online platform. Besides that, this platform houses occupation and industry data, as well as a list of eligible education and training providers for various occupations. To learn more about the services offered by LWC, explore the agency’s official website.
Louisiana Department of Insurance
The state’s insurance industry is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI). This department holds various records related to insurance business companies and agents, such as licensing information, service of process, market share reports, producers and adjusters, and independent review organizations.
LDI offers various options that facilitate access to its records. The Active Company Search platform enables the search for active insurance companies using filters like name, date of licensure, license type, line of insurance, and NAIC number. Meanwhile, the public records request system allows the public to submit requests for information not readily available online.
Louisiana Economic Development
Louisiana Economic Development (LED) is the state agency tasked with fostering economic growth and improving the business climate in Louisiana. Its primary goals include attracting new businesses, supporting the expansion of existing businesses, and providing resources for workforce development and community improvement.
LED holds various records related to business entities. It maintains business filings and registrations, businesses with incentive program applications, and a list of key industries within the state. Those interested in accessing this information can make a public record request or visit the agency’s website.
Louisiana State Boards
Louisiana state boards are regulatory bodies responsible for licensing, regulating, and maintaining standards for businesses and professionals to ensure compliance with state laws. These boards hold various business-entity-related records, including licenses and permits, compliance records, and disciplinary action records.
Each state board holds various business entity records depending on the profession’s scope.
For example, the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners holds data on professionals working for businesses that provide medical care. It offers a license verification platform that allows the public to confirm if an individual within the medical industry is licensed by inputting information such as license number, name, location, and practitioner type.
Parish Clerk of Courts
Parish Clerk of Courts in Louisiana maintains records of business entities operating within their jurisdiction. They often house information such as business registrations, details of registered agents, and licenses and permits. Additionally, these offices contain property records related to businesses that own or lease properties in their area.
Individuals seeking access to these records can do so by visiting the parish clerk’s office in person or submitting a request via mail. Some parishes also offer convenient online portals for easy lookup of business-entity records. When making inquiries, provide basic details about the business entity, such as its name, type, and address. Also, fees may apply for accessing these records, with the specific amount varying across different parishes.
Local City Governments
City governments in Louisiana also hold entity records, especially for businesses operating within their limits. These records often encompass business registration documents, licenses, or permits required by city ordinances.
Most city governments in Louisiana accept public records requests in person or by mail. Some cities, meanwhile, provide online access to their records via online databases typically found on their websites. There are fees associated with obtaining copies of these records.
Federal Agencies
Several federal agencies maintain business entity data in Louisiana, each holding different type of business records:
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): This agency provides resources and support for small businesses. It contains data on small business statistics as well as business loans, grants, and federal contracting opportunities.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS maintains business entity records primarily related to tax identification and compliance. Tax filings, Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), and business tax obligations are common in this agency.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): This office manages business entity records related to intellectual property, including patents and trademarks registered by businesses in Louisiana.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC holds records of business practices, consumer protection, and antitrust laws. It maintains business registrations, complaints, and investigations into unfair business practices.
Commercial Database Providers
Access to Louisiana business entity records is not limited to official government agencies. Commercial services that compile and maintain extensive databases also offer this information to the public. The information that these commercial database providers offer includes but is not limited to the following:
- Entity name and status
- Date of incorporation
- Business address
- Filing history
Among the most renowned providers are LexisNexis, Dun & Bradstreet, and InfoUSA. These providers typically charge fees per search or require subscriptions to access their databases.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Louisiana?
One crucial aspect when establishing a new business in Louisiana is selecting the appropriate business structure. Various business structures are available, each with benefits, drawbacks, and tax implications that entrepreneurs and business professionals should consider. Here are some of the business entity types that can be registered in Louisiana:
- Sole Proprietorships: A sole proprietorship is Louisiana’s simplest and most common form of business ownership. It is a business owned and operated by one individual, and there is no legal distinction between the owner and the business. This means the owner is personally responsible for all the business’s debts, liabilities, and legal obligations. Although a sole proprietorship is not a separate legal entity and does not require formal incorporation, there are considerations to follow to operate the business properly. The sole proprietor must secure local business licensing requirements from parish or city governments. Depending on the business activity, the sole proprietor must register for state sales tax or other applicable taxes.
- Partnerships: A partnership is a business structure where two or more individuals or entities agree to share ownership, profits, and responsibilities. In Louisiana, partnerships are governed by the Louisiana Civil Code and can be customized through a written agreement. Partnerships are relatively easy to form and offer flexibility in management and operations. A Partnership Registration Form must be filed to the Louisiana Secretary of State to register a partnership. This can be done online, in person, or by mail. A $100 fee applies when filing a partnership registration in Louisiana.
- Corporations: A corporation in Louisiana is a type of business entity that is legally separate from its owners (shareholders). It offers limited liability protection, meaning shareholders are not personally responsible for the corporation’s debts or liabilities. Corporations can own assets, enter contracts, and sue or be sued independently of their shareholders. They are often chosen by businesses seeking to raise capital through stock issuance or those aiming to establish a formal and professional structure. An Article of Incorporation must be filed with the Secretary of State to register a corporation in Louisiana. The filing fee is $75.
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): LLCs are business structures in Louisiana that combine the liability protection of a corporation with the tax flexibility and simplicity of a sole proprietorship or partnership. Due to their flexibility and ease of management, LLCs are popular for small and medium-sized businesses. Per Louisiana law, an Article of Organization must be filed with the Secretary of State to register an LLC. A $100 filing fee applies when filing for an LLC.
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs): Professionals or business partners who want to operate a partnership while limiting their personal liability prefer LLP as their business structure. In an LLP, partners are not personally liable for most of the partnership’s debts or obligations. They are also shielded from liability for other partners’ negligent or wrongful acts. Each partner manages the business, shares profits, and assumes responsibility for their actions. To register for an LLP in Louisiana, submit a filled-out Application of a Registered Limited Liability Partnership to the Louisiana Secretary of State. This process has a $125 filing fee.
- Trade Names: In Louisiana, a trade name, commonly referred to as a “Doing Business As” (DBA), is any name under which a business operates that is different from its legal business name. This allows businesses to create a brand identity and market themselves under a name that may be more descriptive or appealing than their legal name. To register a trade name in Louisiana, fill out the Application to Register Trade Name, Trademark, or Service Mark form. Afterward, submit it to the Louisiana Secretary of State in person, online, or by mail. A filing fee of $75 is required for the application to get processed.
- Foreign Entities: A foreign entity in Louisiana refers to a business entity originally formed in another state or country but intending to conduct business within Louisiana legally. These can be different entity types, such as corporations, LLCs, partnerships, etc. Foreign entities must register with the Louisiana Secretary of State before engaging in business activities in the state. The type of entity determines the specific forms and fees required for registration. For example, when registering a foreign corporation, file the Application of Foreign Corporation form along with a $100 filing fee. Meanwhile, the Application of Foreign Limited Liability Company form and a $150 filing fee are required for foreign LLCs.
Useful Additional Information on the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Website
The Louisiana Secretary of State’s website offers a range of resources and functionalities that extend beyond mere business entity inquiries. Among its notable features are the following:
Business Filing Options
The business filing page on the Louisiana Secretary of State website provides various filing options and resources for businesses to handle their registration and compliance needs. This page highlights the various filing methods businesses can use to form a new entity, make amendments, or submit annual reports.
Among the filing options available on this page are online filing, fax filing, and walk-in filing. It also offers expedited filing for time-sensitive matters. Beyond the filing options, the page provides a checklist to help businesses meet compliance requirements to avoid errors and rejections. It also outlines accepted payment methods when filing businesses in the state.
Louisiana geauxBIZ
The Louisiana Secretary of State collaborates with the LDR (Louisiana Department of Revenue) and LWC (Louisiana Workforce Commission) to offer the geauxBIZ online platform. This centralized tool is designed to streamline business operations for entrepreneurs and entities.
The platform is handy for registering a new business, verifying business name availability, and updating entity information. Moreover, it includes tools for managing business taxes and permits from a single platform, which saves time and reduces errors while remaining compliant with state regulations.
Business Forms and Fees
The forms and fee schedule page provides access to critical forms and detailed fee information for making business decisions in Louisiana.
It outlines the required documents for registrations, amendments, annual reports, and dissolutions for different entity types. The page also includes the standard costs associated with filings, requesting certified copies of documents, and special handling fees.
Business FAQs
The business FAQs provided by the Secretary of State uncover answers to common questions related to business registrations, filings, compliance, and general operations in the state
It covers topics such as starting a business, filing annual reports, reserving a business name, obtaining necessary licenses, and addressing compliance issues. The page also offers guidance on navigating taxation requirements and accessing additional resources.
Louisiana Business Search FAQ
To gain a better understanding of conducting business entity searches in Louisiana, refer to the following frequently asked questions:
How Often Is the Louisiana Business Database Updated?
The Louisiana business database is updated daily to reflect the changes and latest information on registered businesses in the state.
Is an Account Needed To Search for a Business in Louisiana?
The public can access and search the business entity database of the Lousiana Secretary of State without needing an account.
Is There a Fee for Conducting a Entity Search?
The Louisiana Secretary of State does not incur any fee when searching through its business entity database.
Can I Obtain the Full Legal Documents for a Business Through the Entity Search?
Individuals can obtain full legal documents for a Louisiana business entity by requesting a certified copy of the record once they click on the results’ details page.
Can I Search for Companies Registered in Louisiana From Outside the State?
Yes, individuals can search for businesses registered in Louisiana from anywhere. The business database is accessible online, which allows searchers regardless of location.
What Should I Do if I Find an Error in a Entity Search?
Contact the Louisiana Secretary of State immediately if an error is found in a Louisiana business entity search. Report the discrepancies and request corrections by providing supporting documents if necessary.
What Should I Do if the Business I’m Looking for Doesn’t Appear in the Louisiana Database?
If a specific business does not appear in Louisiana’s business entity database, confirm the correct name or spelling of the entity or utilize other search criteria. If it is still missing, contact the Secretary of State for assistance.
Can I Perform a Search for Foreign Entities?
Yes, the Louisiana business entity database allows searches for foreign entities registered to do business in Louisiana. Use the entity name or registration details for the search.
Can I Perform a Bulk Search for Multiple Entities in the Database?
No, the Louisiana business entity search database does not support bulk searches. Each search must be conducted individually using specific entity names or identification details.