How to Search Massachusetts Business Entities?

Massachusetts showed notable business growth according to the 2024 Small Business Administration (SBA) report. The state recorded a net increase of 841 establishments between March 2022 and March 2023, with 25,978 new businesses and 25,137 closures.

Small businesses represent 99.5% of all Massachusetts enterprises, with 722,819 active entities. Professional Services leads with 124,577 businesses, Construction ranks second with 76,901, and Transportation places third with 75,020.  These businesses, which may exist as partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), corporations, or another form of business structure in Massachusetts, employ 1.4 million residents across the state.

To search any Massachusetts business entity, users can follow these steps:

Visit the Massachusetts Business Entity Search Page

To find a business entity registered in Massachusetts, use the search tool provided by the Corporations Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/. Here’s how to navigate to the search tool:

1. Visit the official website homepage.
2. Click on “Departments” in the top menu.
3. Select “Corporations” from the dropdown list.
4. On the Corporations page, click “Search the Corporate Database” to access the Massachusetts business entity search tool.

Search Using Different Criteria

In the Massachusetts business entity search tool, users can look up businesses through four distinct search criteria. The system offers search options by:

• Entity Name
• Individual Name
• Identification Number
• Filing Number

When searching using any of these criteria, users can select from four search types: “Begins with,” “Exact match,” “Full text,” or “Soundex” from the dropdown menu.

The tool also allows customization of search results, with users able to specify the number of items displayed per page through a dropdown menu that defaults to 25 items.  Below the search page, the “Clear search fields” and “Search Corporations” buttons facilitate efficient database navigation.

Locate the Massachusetts Business Entity in the Search Results

After inputting the search criteria, click the “Search Corporations” button to view a list of business entities that match the search parameters. The results are displayed in a table format with four columns:

• Entity Name
• ID Number
• Old ID Number
• Address (city, state, and ZIP code)

By default, each page shows 25 items, with the total number of records and pages indicated at the top. Users can navigate multiple pages using numbered links at the bottom of the results. A “Print results” button appears in the top right corner for documentation purposes. To start a new search, users can click the “New Search” button at the bottom of the results page.

Access the Massachusetts Business Entity Details

To access detailed business information, users must click the entity name link next to each entity’s ID Number in the search results.  The Business Entity Summary page displays comprehensive information about the organization, including its ID Number, entity type, and complete history of name changes.

Users can view the principal office location, registered agent details, and a list of current officers and directors with their addresses. The summary also shows important dates such as organization and dissolution dates, fiscal information, and stock details for publicly traded companies.  At the bottom of the page, users can access various business filings through a dropdown menu and view them using the “View filings” button.

The bottom part may also include comments or notes associated with the business entity. Lastly, the page offers options to request a certificate or start a new search through buttons at the top right corner.

Further Assistance About the Search

For further assistance with the business entity search, consult the Corporations Division’s Search Assistance page for guidance.  The Corporations Division is also available to answer questions and provide help with navigating the search tool or locating specific business information. They can be reached at:

• Address: One Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108
• Phone: 617-727-9640
• Email: [email protected]

Why Do a Massachusetts Entity Search?

A Massachusetts entity search serves as a useful tool for obtaining detailed information about registered businesses in the state. It provides transparency for individuals, businesses, and organizations seeking to make well-founded choices. Below are the key reasons to perform a Massachusetts entity search:

• Confirming Business Legitimacy։ An entity search allows users to verify if a business is legally registered in Massachusetts. It includes details such as the business name, registration status, and date of incorporation, which helps users confirm a company’s authenticity before they enter into any transactions.
• Researching Business Details։ This tool offers access to official information about a business. Users can view details like the principal address, registered agent, and business type, which can help them better understand the entity’s operations and structure.
• Identifying Potential Partners։ For those exploring partnerships, an entity search gives insight into a company’s background. It enables users to assess whether the business is active or in good standing, which provides a reliable foundation for collaboration.
• Checking Compliance Status։ Businesses in Massachusetts must maintain compliance with state requirements. The search helps users check whether an entity has filed annual reports or fulfilled other legal obligations, which can indicate its commitment to operating lawfully.
• Supporting Legal or Financial Decisions։ Legal and financial professionals often rely on accurate business data for their work. An entity search equips them with updated information needed for contracts, mergers, acquisitions, or dispute resolutions.
• Facilitating Consumer Protection։ Consumers can use the tool to investigate businesses they plan to engage with. This step ensures they are dealing with legitimate entities, which reduces the risk of fraud or scams.
• Accessing Historical Data։ The Massachusetts entity search also reveals historical information about a business, such as past names or previous filings. This feature is useful for those studying a company’s evolution or conducting thorough due diligence.

Who Holds Data for Massachusetts Business Entity Search

The Corporations Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is not the sole resource for Massachusetts business entity searches. Other organizations and tools can also assist, including the following:

Massachusetts Department of Revenue

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) oversees various tax-related functions, including personal income, corporate excise, and sales taxes. It maintains records on tax filings, payments, and audits.

Businesses can access information via the MassTaxConnect portal to register, request tax waivers, or amend returns. The DOR also offers resources for businesses new to Massachusetts and provides access to tax documents and payment history.

Additionally, individuals can check refund statuses and access resources related to child support, property taxes, and health care reforms on its official website.

Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure

The Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL) regulates over 500,000 individuals, businesses, and schools across more than 100 trades and professions.  Through 26 boards of registration, it oversees licensing and compliance.

Its records include licensing details, disciplinary actions, and regulatory documents. Businesses and individuals can access these records via public records requests or by checking a license online.

Massachusetts Division of Insurance

The Massachusetts Division of Insurance (DOI) monitors the financial stability of insurance providers to maintain a fair and responsive marketplace. It protects consumer interests by providing unbiased information and addressing unfair business practices.

DOI records include consumer guides, annual reports, hearing decisions, and financial exam reports. Public records requests and the SERFF Filing Access system allow access to closed rate filings and licensed company information.

Note that DOI does not store individual policy details or business-specific insurance records.

Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) supports job seekers, workers, and employers through workforce development, economic stability, and labor protection initiatives. It maintains records on unemployment insurance, workforce training, and employer contributions.

Employers and interested individuals can access recruitment, training, and compliance services through the MassHire JobQuest portal or request Certificates of Compliance. Public records requests and career center services provide additional access to resources.

Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General

The Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General maintains records on consumer complaints, workplace issues, civil rights cases, and public bidding. It oversees compliance with wage laws, Medicaid fraud, and data breaches. These records are accessible through public records requests or specific reports available on its website.

Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation

The Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) supports small businesses by providing financing and managerial assistance to promote economic growth. It collaborates with banks, nonprofits, and community organizations to finance projects, especially in distressed communities. MGCC also offers grants for small business training and technical assistance.

While MGCC does not facilitate direct entity searches, its resources and loan programs benefit businesses that are unable to secure traditional financing. Information about its programs and governance is available on its website or through public reports.

Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Access

The Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Access system assists in business-related searches by allowing users to access court dockets and case information involving businesses. It details scheduled court dates, case statuses, and legal filings.

Massachusetts City/Town Clerk Offices

Massachusetts city and town clerk offices facilitate business entity searches by keeping records related to business certificates, commonly known as “Doing Business As” (DBA) registrations.

These offices house local business filings and provide public access to verify ownership and registration details. Requests for records can typically be made in person or by mail. Some clerks offer online databases or services for access to their records. For example, the City of Boston provides a DBA Database Search.

Massachusetts County and District Registry of Deeds Offices

Massachusetts County and District Registry of Deeds Offices maintain property-related records, including deeds, mortgages, liens, and other land documents. While their primary focus is on real estate, they may also provide information on property-related business transactions.

Public access to these records is typically available online or through in-person visits.

Federal Organizations

In addition to state-level resources, several federal organizations can assist with business entity searches related to Massachusetts or businesses operating across the U.S.:

• U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The SEC’s EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) system allows users to search for public company filings, including registration documents, financial statements, and other disclosures. This is particularly useful for those searching for publicly traded companies.
• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): The USPTO offers a Trademark Search system for checking trademarks registered to businesses. This is valuable for ensuring that a business name or logo does not conflict with existing trademarks.
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS offers resources for businesses to find Employer Identification Numbers (EINs). Although it doesn’t provide a direct entity search tool, the IRS website includes valuable forms and procedures for obtaining EINs or verifying an entity’s tax status.

Commercial Database Providers

In addition to state and federal resources, several commercial database providers offer tools to assist with business entity searches in Massachusetts and nationwide. These providers are private companies that offer access to vast amounts of business-related data, such as company financials, industry information, legal filings, and other relevant records.  Below are some examples of commercial database providers in Massachusetts and beyond:

• LexisNexis
• Dun & Bradstreet (D&B)
• Bloomberg
• Experian

These providers typically charge fees for access to their databases, as well as for detailed reports, analytics, and other tools that support business research, compliance, and strategic decision-making.

What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, there are four common business structures—corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietorships. Each structure impacts the steps to start a business, operating responsibilities, tax obligations, and personal asset protection.

• Sole Proprietorships։ A Massachusetts sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by one individual. It is the most common business structure, often chosen by freelancers, consultants, photographers, and other small business owners.  The structure is simple, with no legal distinction between the business and the owner. All profits and debts belong to the owner, who assumes full responsibility for any legal or financial liabilities, including unlimited liability. Starting a sole proprietorship in Massachusetts is straightforward. If operating under the owner’s name, no registration is required with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. However, if using a different name, a business certificate (DBA or “Doing Business As”) must be filed with the local city or town.  If the business requires an EIN (Employer Identification Number), the IRS can issue one. For businesses offering taxable goods or services or with employees, registration with MassTaxConnect is necessary. Sole proprietors report business income and expenses on their personal income tax return using Schedule C. They are also responsible for additional taxes based on their business type. Workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory for employers, even if the business owner has no employees.
• Partnerships։ A partnership in Massachusetts involves two or more individuals or organizations working together to operate a business. The structure is commonly used by professionals like lawyers or doctors and those looking to test a collaborative business idea.  Partnerships are not taxed directly. Instead, each partner reports their share of profits and losses on their personal income tax returns.  There are several types of partnerships, including general partnerships, limited liability partnerships (LLPs), and limited partnerships (LPs).  In a general partnership, all partners share personal liability for the business’s debts, meaning personal assets may be at risk. An LLP limits the personal liability of each partner, similar to a limited liability company (LLC). In an LP, one partner assumes full personal liability, while others have limited liability. To start a partnership, check if the business name is available. Some partnerships, like LLPs or LPs, must file with the Secretary of the Commonwealth, while general partnerships do not.  After registration, partnerships may need a business certificate (DBA) and an EIN from the IRS. Partners must report income using forms such as Schedule K-1 and pay self-employment tax. Workers’ compensation insurance is also required for all employers.
• Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)։ A Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Massachusetts offers protection to its owners by limiting their personal responsibility for the company’s debts. This structure is ideal for businesses with medium to high risks. LLCs are easy to set up and provide flexibility in management. To establish an LLC, the first step is to ensure the business name is available, which can be confirmed by performing a Massachusetts business entity search.  Afterward, an operating agreement must be created, which outlines the company’s management and structure. The LLC is legally formed by filing a Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of the Commonwealth, which requires a $500 filing fee. Once established, LLCs may need to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) of the U.S. Department of Treasury. If the LLC operates under a name other than its legal one, a business certificate (DBA) is necessary.  Additionally, obtaining an EIN from the IRS is required for tax purposes. LLCs must also register with MassTaxConnect to handle state taxes. Finally, LLCs must file an annual report with the Secretary of the Commonwealth, with a $500 fee.
• Corporations։ A corporation in Massachusetts is a separate legal entity from its owners, which protects their personal assets from business debts. Massachusetts recognizes four types of corporations: profit, non-profit, professional, and foreign entities. Each type has specific filing requirements and fees. Profit corporations are formed for business purposes and are subject to corporate excise tax. Non-profit corporations focus on charitable or educational work and often qualify for tax-exempt status. To establish a corporation in Massachusetts, the Articles of Organization must be filed with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. This filing process includes a fee based on the type of corporation. For example, a for-profit or professional corporation requires a $275 fee for up to 275,000 shares, while foreign entities must pay a $400 fee.  Additionally, corporations may need to file a BOI (beneficial ownership information) report with the U.S. Department of Treasury’s FinCEN. Corporations must also obtain an EIN from the IRS, register with MassTaxConnect for state tax purposes, and ensure compliance with workers’ compensation insurance requirements.  Annual reporting is required, with fees based on the corporation type. A certificate of good standing may also be needed for various business activities.

Useful Additional Information on the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Website

Beyond facilitating entity searches, the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ official website delivers numerous helpful services and resources for businesses, whether newly established or long-standing. Among the notable ones are:

Account on File Service

The Account on File Service offered by the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts allows users to securely store payment information for recurring filings. Users can request an account by submitting a form, and the Corporations Division will provide further instructions within two business days.

E-mail Subscription Service

The Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Corporations Division offers an E-mail Subscription Service for easier notifications.  Users can subscribe to receive updates on corporate law changes, website updates, new services, and business entity record changes tied to their profile. Authorized individuals may also receive official communications, such as annual report reminders, revocation notices, or registered agent updates. Subscriptions can be managed through the New User Registration page.

Name Reservations

The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Corporations Division enables entities to reserve a corporate name before incorporation or filing. Reserved names must be distinct from existing entities to prevent confusion.

To reserve a name, applicants must submit an Application of Reservation of Name form and pay a $30 fee. Once approved, the name is reserved for 60 days, with an optional 60-day extension for an additional $30.  For reserved names, one can search on the Name Reservation Database to verify availability.

Trademarks Search

The Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts includes a trademark search portal on its official website. The system allows users to search by multiple criteria, including registration number, trademark/service mark, mark description, and registrant information.

Users can refine their search by selecting date ranges, filtering transaction types, adjusting search parameters, and specifying the number of results displayed per page.

Corporations Division Filing Fees

The Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ official website also provides information on Corporations Division filing fees.  Fees vary by entity type and service, including registration, amendments, and certificates.

Detailed fee schedules, such as those for domestic and foreign corporations, LLCs, and trademarks, can be accessed online in PDF format.

Downloadable & Fillable Forms Instructions

For corporations, trademarks, and UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) filings, the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers downloadable and fillable forms on its website.
Downloaded forms require original signatures and must be submitted by mail, fax, or in person. Fillable forms must be typed, printed, and signed before submission. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required, and all forms must follow specific formatting guidelines.

Massachusetts Business Search FAQ

For an in-depth look at business entity searches in Massachusetts, review the frequently asked questions outlined below:

How Often Is the Massachusetts Business Entity Database Updated?

The Massachusetts business entity database is updated regularly, often daily, to reflect new filings, updates, and changes submitted to the Corporations Division. However, the exact update frequency can vary depending on the volume of filings and operational schedules.

Is There a Fee for Conducting a Massachusetts Entity Search?

There is no fee for conducting a basic entity search in Massachusetts through the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website. However, obtaining certified copies of documents or detailed reports may incur fees.

Can You Search for an Entity in Massachusetts Using Partial Business Names Only?

Yes, the Massachusetts business entity search tool allows users to search using partial business names. By selecting the “Begins with” or “Soundex” search type, users can locate entities whose names include or closely resemble the partial name inputted.

How Do You Choose the Best Search Method When Performing a Public Search?

The best search method depends on the available information. For an exact match, use “Exact Match,” for partial matches, try “Begins With,” and to find broader results, use “Full Text” or “Soundex.”

Can You Search for a Sole Proprietorship and General Partnership Using the Massachusetts Business Entity Search Tool?

The Massachusetts business entity search tool does not include sole proprietorships or general partnerships, as these are registered locally. Inquiries about such businesses should be directed to the municipal clerk’s office where they operate.

Can You Search Massachusetts Business Entities for DBA (Doing Business As) Names?

Users can search the Massachusetts business entity database for business names, including DBAs. Local city or town clerk offices may also hold separate records for DBA registrations.

What Happens if the Massachusetts Business Entity Search Tool Provides No Search Results?

If the Massachusetts business entity search tool returns no results, it indicates that no registered business entities match the search criteria entered. This could mean the business doesn’t exist, is registered under a different name, or is a sole proprietorship or general partnership not required to register with the Secretary of the Commonwealth.