Nebraska’s business ecosystem reveals dynamic economic potential. The 2024 Small Business Administration (SBA) report details 188,716 small businesses, representing 99.1% of state enterprises. From March 2022 to March 2023, Nebraska experienced 8,141 business establishments open and 7,061 closed, generating a net increase of 1,080 entities. Small businesses contributed 16,850 jobs, comprising 79.9% of total job growth. Top industries include:
- Construction (22,869 businesses)
- Other Services (20,770 businesses)
- Real Estate and Rental (20,443 businesses)
- Professional Services (19,196 businesses)
- Retail Trade (18,802 businesses)
Through the search methods outlined below, stakeholders can obtain information about Nebraska businesses, including partnerships, corporations, and other types of entities.
Visit the Nebraska Business Entity Search Page
- Visit the Nebraska Secretary of State’s official website at https://sos.nebraska.gov/.
- Hover the cursor over the “Business Services” option in the top menu.
- From the menu or list, select “Corporate & Business.”
- Then, click on “Corporate & Business Search” to access the Nebraska business entity search tool/page.
For direct access to the tool, go to https://www.nebraska.gov/sos/corp/corpsearch.cgi?nav=search.
Search Using Business Name or Account Number
The Nebraska business entity search tool allows searching by business name or account number. Name search options include:
- Name Starts With: Finds entities whose names begin with the entered text.
- Name Keyword Search: Searches for entities containing the entered keyword anywhere in the name.
- Name Sounds Like: Identifies businesses with names that sound similar to the entered text.
- Name Exact Match: Returns results for businesses with names that exactly match the entered text.
To search using an account number in the Nebraska business entity search tool, users can select the “Account Number” option on the search page. They should then enter the specific account number of the business entity they wish to look up. For security purposes, a reCAPTCHA must be completed before performing the search. The “Perform Search” button then executes the specified query, enabling users to efficiently locate relevant business records maintained by the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Locate the Nebraska Business Entity in the Search Results
After inputting the search details in the Nebraska business entity search tool, users will be directed to the search results page. This page displays a list of businesses that match the search criteria, including the business name, Secretary of State account number, entity type, and status.
Each entry is clickable for users to view more detailed information. The search results are presented with a default sorting order, which can be adjusted by selecting primary or secondary sorting options. The primary sort allows selecting either type of business or status.
Meanwhile, a secondary sort can refine results by both criteria. Results will always appear in alphabetical order. The number of results displayed per page is typically limited to 25, making it easier to manage the results. To navigate through multiple pages, users can use the “Previous Page” and “Next Page” buttons or jump to a specific page by selecting the page number.
Access the Nebraska Business Entity Details
After clicking each entry in the search results, users can view detailed information about the business entity. This includes the entity’s official name, status, filing date, and principal office address. The page also provides the registered agent’s contact information and any designated office address. Users can access filed documents related to the entity, such as the Certificate of Organization and Biennial Reports, with the option to purchase copies of these documents.
Further Assistance About the Search
For further assistance with the Nebraska business entity search and other business services in the state, users can contact the Nebraska Secretary of State directly at 402-471-2554. For help with online services, including login issues, payment problems, or other technical difficulties, users can also reach technical support via live chat or email. The technical support team is available to address common issues and provide guidance on navigating Nebraska’s online tools and services related to business searches.
Why Do a Nebraska Entity Search?
A Nebraska entity search provides essential information about businesses registered in the state. This search helps individuals and organizations verify important details about entities, such as their legal standing, registration status, and background. It can be used for various purposes, including:
- Business Entity Verification: Verifying the existence and status of a Nebraska business entity is a fundamental step in many business transactions and interactions. This information can help confirm the legitimacy of a company, ensure compliance with state regulations, and mitigate risks associated with potential legal or financial complications.
- Competitor Analysis: Identifying and analyzing the competition within Nebraska can provide crucial insights for businesses. By understanding the presence, activities, and characteristics of rival companies, organizations can devise more effective strategies, identify market opportunities, and enhance their competitive edge.
- Supplier and Partner Evaluation: Conducting a Nebraska business search can assist in vetting potential suppliers, partners, or vendors. Access to details such as business type, ownership, and longevity can help evaluate the reliability, stability, and suitability of these commercial relationships.
- Compliance and Legal Considerations: For businesses operating in Nebraska, maintaining compliance with state regulations is essential. Researching entity records can help ensure compliance with licensing, taxation, and other legal requirements, which mitigates the risk of penalties or legal disputes.
- Networking and Collaboration: The Nebraska business search tool can serve as a valuable resource for networking and identifying potential collaborators. By exploring the state’s business landscape, organizations may discover complementary services, products, or expertise that could lead to mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Reputation Management: Analyzing the details of Nebraska business entities can aid in reputation management. By verifying the legitimacy and standing of companies, individuals or organizations can make informed decisions about their associations and avoid potential reputational risks.
Who Holds Data for Nebraska Business Entity Search
Exploring business entities in Nebraska is not limited to the Secretary of State’s office. Other offices and resources also provide assistance, including:
Nebraska Department of Revenue
The Nebraska Department of Revenue holds extensive business-related information to facilitate compliance with state tax laws and regulations. They maintain records on business registrations, tax filings, payment plans, sales and use taxes, and specific tax credit programs.
These records are accessible through their online services, including tools for filing returns, registering businesses, and locating tax rates.
Nebraska Department of Insurance
The Nebraska Department of Insurance maintains records and information related to insurance companies and licensed insurance producers operating within the state.
Through their affiliation with State Based Systems (SBS), a National Association of Insurance Commissioners business partner, users can access the department’s Company and Producer Search database. This allows searching for details on insurance companies, as well as licensed agents and agencies.
Nebraska Department of Economic Development
The Nebraska Department of Economic Development provides wide-ranging resources and programs to support businesses and communities in the state. They manage over 50 initiatives, including tax credits, workforce housing funds, and community grants.
Business-related information includes funding opportunities, economic initiatives, and regional development programs. Records and resources can be accessed through their official website or by visiting their Lincoln office.
Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance
The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance maintains records and information related to various financial institutions and services operating within the state.
This includes data on banks, credit unions, mortgage lenders, money transmitters, consumer lenders, and more. Interested individuals can access the department’s online search tools to verify the licensing and standing of these regulated entities.
Nebraska Department of Agriculture
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) provides comprehensive business information related to agriculture and food industries. Their records include inspection reports for food safety, pesticide usage, weights and measures, and licensed facilities for animals and plants.
Businesses can also access lists of licensed entities such as dairies, food establishments, and pesticide dealers. Additional resources include commodity trade profiles and grant guidance. Records can be accessed through online search portals or by submitting a public records request. The NDA ensures transparency while following Nebraska’s public records statutes for document disclosure.
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services offers detailed business information through its License Information System Search. This system allows users to access records related to licensed individuals, businesses, and facilities offering health and human services.
Businesses and organizations can use this tool to verify licensure and compliance with state regulations.
Nebraska Department of Labor
The Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) keeps various business-related information, including labor standards, unemployment data, and contractor registration details. For contractor registration, the NDOL offers a search tool to verify businesses and contractors.
Data related to unemployment benefits and employment statistics can also be found on their website.
Nebraska County Clerks
Nebraska County Clerks handle vital business and legal record functions across the state’s 93 counties. Their offices often maintain the following:
- Business registration records
- Fictitious name registrations
- UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) filings
- Corporate document storage
- Assumed name certificates
- Domestic partnership records
- Property deed registrations
- Civil court filing documentation
Each county clerk’s office provides local business entity search and documentation verification services, complementing state-level registration systems.
Federal Organizations
At the federal level, several organizations and resources can assist with business entity searches in Nebraska, including:
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): Provides public access to corporate filings, financial reports, and business registration info via the EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) system.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Offers information on businesses with Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) and maintains records on tax-exempt organizations.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): Hosts searchable databases for trademarks and patents registered by businesses.
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): Provides resources and directories for registered small businesses, including loan and grant information.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Tracks business compliance and consumer protection with public records on enforcement actions.
Commercial Database Providers
Commercial database providers enhance business entity searches in Nebraska by offering more tools and services. These companies compile data from multiple public records and government sources and give more profound insights into company information, including financials, credit reports, and other relevant business details. Examples of providers include:
- LexisNexis
- Dun & Bradstreet (D&B)
- Experian
While some basic data may be accessible for free or through trials, more comprehensive information or full access to reports and detailed business profiles typically requires a paid subscription or one-time purchase.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Nebraska?
When starting a business in Nebraska, one of the first decisions an entrepreneur will face is choosing the appropriate legal structure. Each entity offers distinct advantages, depending on factors such as liability protection, taxation, and management. Understanding these options is crucial for making an informed decision. Below is a breakdown of the various business entity types available in Nebraska, along with their characteristics and the necessary steps to form each one:
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is the simplest form of business entity, where the business is owned and operated by a single individual. This entity is not considered a separate legal entity from the owner, meaning the owner assumes full responsibility for the business’s debts and obligations. There are minimal formalities required to form a sole proprietorship in Nebraska, though owners may choose to file a trade name application to protect the business name. Registering a trade name grants the owner certain legal rights, including the ability to take legal action against others who misuse the name.
Partnership
A partnership involves two or more individuals who co-own a business. In Nebraska, there are two types of partnerships:
- General Partnership: In a general partnership, all partners share responsibility for managing the business and are personally liable for the business’s debts. Formal documentation is not required to establish a general partnership.
- Limited Partnership: A limited partnership allows for a more structured division of liability. While general partners manage the business and bear full liability, limited partners only risk losing their investment. A limited partnership is created by filing a certificate of limited partnership with the Secretary of State’s office.
Corporation
A corporation is a separate legal entity from its owners (shareholders). This structure provides the greatest level of personal liability protection, as the owners’ personal assets are generally not at risk for the company’s debts. Corporations must adhere to formalities such as issuing stock, holding meetings, and maintaining records. There are several types of corporations in Nebraska, including:
- Domestic Corporation: A corporation formed in Nebraska to do business within the state.
- Domestic Non-Profit Corporation: A corporation organized for charitable, educational, or similar purposes that does not distribute profits to members.
- Domestic Professional Corporation: A corporation formed by licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or accountants.
- Foreign Corporation: A corporation formed in another state or country but registered to do business in Nebraska.
- Foreign Non-Profit Corporation: A non-profit corporation formed outside Nebraska but conducting operations in the state.
- Foreign Professional Corporation: A professional corporation formed outside of Nebraska that operates within the state.
- Nebraska Benefit Corporation: A corporation that prioritizes social and environmental benefits alongside profit generation. This entity is designed for businesses aiming to create a positive impact on society.
To form a corporation in Nebraska, articles of incorporation must be submitted to the Secretary of State’s office.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
A limited liability company (LLC) combines the liability protection of a corporation with the tax advantages of a partnership. LLC members are not personally liable for the company’s debts, and profits and losses are typically passed through to the owners’ personal tax returns, avoiding “double taxation” like corporations. There are four types of LLCs in Nebraska:
- Domestic Limited Liability Company: An LLC formed in Nebraska to conduct business within the state.
- Domestic Limited Liability Company Professional Service: An LLC formed for professional services such as legal, medical, or accounting practices. These LLCs can only be formed by licensed professionals.
- Foreign Limited Liability Company: An LLC formed outside of Nebraska that wants to operate in the state.
- Foreign Limited Liability Company Professional Service: A professional service LLC formed outside of Nebraska that wishes to offer services within the state.
To form an LLC in Nebraska, a certificate of organization must be filed with the Secretary of State. When choosing the right entity for their business, business owners should consult with legal and financial professionals to ensure they select the best structure based on their unique needs and goals. For information about the complete filing process and where to find the necessary forms, visit the official website of the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Useful Additional Information on the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Website
In addition to business entity searches, the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website offers essential services for new and existing businesses, which include but are not limited to the following:
Online Filing System
The Nebraska Secretary of State’s Online Filing System allows businesses to submit Limited Liability Company (LLC) Biennial Reports and Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Annual Reports efficiently. Users can file online and pay fees using a credit card or electronic check.
The system requires the business’s Secretary of State Business Services Account Number and, for legal-related filings, a PDF of the Nebraska Supreme Court Certificate of Authority. Fees include a $25 filing fee and a minimum $3 portal fee.
Corporate Document eDelivery
The Corporate Document eDelivery service on the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website allows businesses to electronically submit documents for filing. Users can upload their documents and enter necessary information for review. Once submitted, a confirmation email is sent once the document is reviewed, which typically takes about a week.
Non-subscribers can pay filing fees via credit card, with an additional $2 per transaction for operating costs. Subscribers benefit from an account that stores payment and filing history for easier management of their documents.
Corporate Searches – Special Requests
The Corporate Records Special Request service on the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website allows users to retrieve official business entity information. Through this service, individuals can search records based on criteria like entity type, registration date, name keywords, and location.
Batch requests are available for a fee of $15 per 1,000 records. By becoming a Nebraska.gov subscriber, users can also opt for scheduled batch file deliveries on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis. Payments are made via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express.
Online Certificate of Good Standing Validation
The Nebraska Secretary of State Online Certificate of Good Standing Validation service allows users to verify the authenticity of a Certificate of Good Standing. To do so, users should enter the Verification ID located at the bottom of the certificate and click the “Validate” button.
Corporate Forms and Fees
The Nebraska Secretary of State’s website provides detailed information on corporate forms and fees for various business entities. These include filing fees for documents such as articles of incorporation, amendments, mergers, and dissolutions.
Fees range from $25 for online filings to $500 for late reinstatements. Online filings are facilitated through the eDelivery platform, with a convenient payment option using credit cards.
Preventing Business Identity Theft
The Nebraska Secretary of State offers a downloadable file on “Preventing Business Identity Theft.” This guidance document advises businesses to check their information online, monitor credit reports, secure confidential data, and avoid sharing sensitive details. In case of theft, contact law enforcement, creditors, and credit agencies.
Nebraska Business Search FAQ
For more information on business entity searches in Nebraska, refer to the frequently asked questions below:
How Often Is the Nebraska Business Entity Database Updated?
The Nebraska business entity database is updated regularly, with business information being updated as soon as it is processed. Typically, updates occur within a few business days of a filing, but this can vary based on the type of filing and the volume of submissions.
Is an Account Needed To Use the Nebraska Business Entity Search Tool?
No account is required to use the Nebraska business entity search tool. Users can search for business entities by name or account number without needing to log in.
Can You Order Document Copies Without an Account?
Yes, users can order document copies using the Nebraska business entity search tool without creating an account. They can select the desired document, click the “Add Items to Cart” button, then proceed to “Checkout” and complete the payment details to finalize the order.
Is There a Fee for Conducting a Business Entity Search?
No, there is no fee for conducting a Nebraska business entity search. Users can search for business entities using the search tool without incurring any charges. However, fees apply if users request copies of business documents or certificates from the search results.
Can You View Documents Before Purchasing Them?
Subscribers to Nebraska.gov can view documents before purchasing. Non-subscribers must pay at checkout to access the documents.
Are All Nebraska Business Entity Documents Available Online?
Documents filed before March 10, 1999, may not be available online. These can be obtained directly from the Secretary of State’s office.
Can You Access Documents Longer Than 40 Pages?
No, documents longer than 40 pages are not available online due to system traffic considerations. To obtain these documents, users may need to contact the Nebraska Secretary of State’s office directly for assistance.
Can You Search for a Sole Proprietorship or General Partnership?
If a sole proprietorship or partnership is registered as a tradename (also known as a “doing business as” or DBA name), it will appear in the Nebraska business entity search results. The search tool can identify tradenames registered with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Can You Search Trademarks and Service Marks Using the Nebraska Business Entity Search Tool?
Yes, the Nebraska business entity search tool allows searches for trademarks and service marks registered in the state.
What Should You Do if a Business Doesn’t Appear in the Results?
If a business doesn’t appear in the results, users should double-check the search criteria for accuracy, such as the business name or account number. If the search still yields no results, the business may not be registered or could be registered under a different name. For further assistance, users can contact the Nebraska Secretary of State’s office.
Is Name Availability Check Possible?
Though the Nebraska business entity search tool can provide insights into existing business names, an official name availability check can only be done by submitting a written request to the Secretary of State’s office. This can be via email ([email protected]), fax (402-471-3666), or mail (P.O. Box 94608, Lincoln, NE 68509-4608). Copyscape flagged three results (0-2%) for terms related to search options and entity types.