According to the 2024 Small Business Profile, New Jersey’s business landscape shows remarkable growth. From March 2022 to March 2023, the state recorded 39,430 new establishments and 31,349 closures, a net increase of 8,081 entities.
Small businesses represent 99.6% of all New Jersey companies, with 979,085 active enterprises across multiple sectors. The top three industries include Professional Services (151,497), Transportation and Warehousing (133,400), and Real Estate (120,987).
These organizations contribute to 48.4% of New Jersey’s employment.
Visit the New Jersey Business Entity Search Page
To obtain detailed information about a registered business entity in New Jersey, visit the official website of the New Jersey Department of the Treasury Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services at https://www.nj.gov/treasury/revenue/.
On the homepage, users should click on the “Business Records and Information” option in the top menu. This will direct them to a new page, where they can select “Business Entity Name Search” from the list of services to access the official New Jersey business entity search tool.
For direct access, check this link: https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessNameSearch/.
Search Using Different Criteria
In the NJ business entity search tool, users have multiple search criteria options to find registered businesses and verify name availability. The system offers three distinct search methods: Business Name Search, Keyword Search, and Entity ID Search.
The Business Name Search feature allows users to enter partial names with wildcards and excludes designators like “Inc.” or “LLC” unless an exact match exists.
For keyword searches, users can input up to five specific terms without wildcards to narrow results.
Meanwhile, the Entity ID Search requires an exact matching filing number for precise lookups.
A separate Business Name Availability search also helps users verify if their desired business name remains unused in New Jersey.
Each search type includes a green “Search” button and a red “Cancel” button for easy navigation, with required fields marked by asterisks (*) throughout the interface.
Locate the the Search Results
After initiating the search query, users can view the results in a sortable table format. Each entry shows the Business Name, Entity ID, City, Type, and Incorporated Date. The system displays 10 entries per page by default, with options to show more. The table includes navigation buttons at the bottom to move between pages. Users can sort any column by clicking the column header to find specific businesses faster.
Access the Business Entity Details
Unlike other state business entity search tools, which allow users to click on a business name link to access detailed information directly from the search results, the New Jersey business entity search portal does not provide this feature. However, there are separate tools that allow users to access more information about a specific entity. These tools include:
Records from these databases can be searched and ordered through business name, entity ID, principal name, registered agent, associated name, and original filing date range.
Further Assistance About the Search
For further assistance with searching New Jersey business entities, contact the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services through their Online Revenue General Inquiry Form or by phone at 609-292-9292.
Why Do a New Jersey Entity Search?
A New Jersey entity search can be particularly beneficial for various purposes, such as the following:
- Confirm a Business’s Registration: One of the first steps when considering a New Jersey-based business is to verify its registration with the state. The New Jersey entity search tool allows users to check if a business is officially registered with the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. This ensures that the company is operating within the legal framework established by the state.
- Review the Active Status of a Business: New Jersey businesses may be listed as active, inactive, or dissolved. Searching for a business entity in New Jersey provides clarity on whether the company is still actively operating or has been dissolved. This information is essential for anyone looking to engage with a business, as it helps avoid potential issues related to non-operating entities.
- Check New Jersey Business Name Availability: Before starting a new business in New Jersey, conducting an entity search can confirm whether a desired business name is available. This search tool allows users to check if the name they plan to use has already been taken or is being used by another registered entity. This step is important to ensure that the desired name can be legally used and avoid any future conflicts.
- Discover Business Ownership and Officers: In New Jersey, the entity search provides access to the names of business owners and officers who are legally responsible for the company’s operations. For those seeking to verify the key people behind a business, this search can be particularly useful. Knowing the officers’ and owners’ names can also help establish trust before entering any professional agreements.
- Investigate the Formation and Changes: The New Jersey entity search also allows users to access a business’s formation history, including when it was established and any subsequent changes. This can be helpful in understanding the company’s background, such as mergers, acquisitions, or changes in business structure. A business’s history may reveal important context when evaluating its operations.
- Check for Business Compliance with State Regulations: In New Jersey, businesses are required to file annual reports and maintain compliance with state regulations. An entity search can reveal whether a business is in good standing and up-to-date with its filing requirements. This helps individuals or organizations assess whether a business may be at risk of penalties or facing legal challenges due to non-compliance.
Who Holds Data for New Jersey Business Entity Search
The search for New Jersey business entities goes beyond the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. Additional offices and resources can also provide helpful assistance, including:
New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance
The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (NJDOBI) regulates the state’s banking, insurance, and real estate industries. It oversees licensing, financial stability, and consumer protection in these sectors. NJDOBI holds records of licensed professionals, businesses, and organizations, including mortgage lenders, insurance producers, and real estate brokers.
Access to these records is available through the NJDOBI Licensee Search tool. This tool provides details about active licenses but excludes certain financial institutions, like national banks.
New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development facilitates business entity searches by providing employers access to tools and resources for managing accounts, reviewing contribution rates, and ensuring compliance with state labor laws.
Employers can use the online Employer Access portal to view detailed records and account summaries. Additional labor market information, reports, and industry data are available on their website.
New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs
The New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs (NJDCA) manages records for licensed professionals, registered businesses, and charitable organizations. These records include licensing details, registration statuses, and healthcare profiles for physicians, podiatrists, and optometrists.
The department provides access to this information through its secure MyLicense website and online databases. Users can verify licenses, check application statuses, and view profiles or legal filings. The NJDCA also addresses consumer complaints and directs unresolved issues to appropriate state or federal agencies.
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) maintains records related to environmental permits, land use, air and water quality, hazardous waste management, site remediation, and compliance reports.
These records include business-related environmental filings, licenses, and registrations. Access to these records is available through the NJDEP Online Business Portal, which requires a myNewJersey Portal account for registration and login.
New Jersey State Library
The New Jersey State Library holds various business resources, including government publications, research materials, and legal documents.
It provides access to resources like JerseyClicks, which offers free access to over 20 databases for New Jersey residents. JerseyClicks includes tools like Reference Solutions for business research and market analysis.
New Jersey Department of State – Business Action Center
The New Jersey Department of State’s Business Action Center (NJBAC) provides assistance with business entity searches within the state. Its website offers resources for finding business registration information, legal filings, and other relevant details.
Additionally, the center gives personalized support to help businesses navigate state regulations and government resources efficiently.
New Jersey Business Portal
The New Jersey Business Portal, Business.NJ.gov, also serves as a comprehensive resource for individuals looking to start, operate, and expand businesses in New Jersey.
It offers personalized guides, funding opportunities, tax obligations, and expert support. The portal ensures users stay informed about state regulations and available business resources.
Local County Offices
In addition to state-level departments, several local county offices in New Jersey maintain business-related data. These offices typically handle local business registrations, licenses, and permits. Here’s a list of some county-level offices that may hold business data:
- County Clerk’s Office
- Function: Each county’s clerk’s office typically handles the filing and registration of business trade names (also known as “Doing Business As” or DBA names).
- Services: Business owners can register their trade names, file notary public applications, and obtain certain business-related documents.
- County Tax Assessor’s Office
- Function: This office is responsible for managing property taxes and assessments.
- Services: Business owners who own real estate will have records here related to property taxes, assessments, and related fees.
- County Health Department
- Function: Local health departments regulate businesses in industries such as food services, healthcare, and public health.
- Services: These offices maintain licenses and permits for businesses involved in public health or food handling, such as restaurants, food trucks, and health-related services.
- County Planning or Zoning Department
- Function: Local zoning offices handle business licenses related to land use and property development.
- Services: Businesses looking to build, expand, or change the use of a property would have to submit permits and applications to the county’s planning or zoning department.
While these county offices are responsible for specific local business records, it is important to check with the relevant office in the specific county where the business is located to confirm which data or services they maintain.
Federal Organizations
At the federal level, several organizations maintain business-related data that can assist with the New Jersey business entity searches. Here is a list of key federal organizations that hold business data for New Jersey:
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA provides support and resources for small businesses, including funding opportunities, disaster relief, and training programs.
- U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS manages businesses’ tax status, Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), and tax filings.
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The SEC oversees public companies and securities markets to ensure fair and efficient functioning.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): The USPTO is responsible for issuing patents and registering trademarks.
- U.S. Department of Commerce: The department promotes business growth, job creation, and innovation.
- Federal Reserve: The Federal Reserve regulates and oversees the nation’s banking system and provides financial services to the U.S. government.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC works to promote consumer protection and prevent anti-competitive practices in the marketplace.
These federal organizations manage different types of business data, which can be accessed through the online tools and resources available on each agency’s website. This data can be used for research, verification, compliance, and other business-related tasks.
Commercial Database Providers
In addition to government agencies, several commercial database providers maintain New Jersey business data, including Dun & Bradstreet, LexisNexis, Experian, and ZoomInfo. These providers charge fees based on the type of data or subscription plan. Service terms generally include access to company profiles, credit reports, and industry insights, with different levels of data access depending on the plan chosen.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in New Jersey?
Choosing the right legal structure is essential when starting a business in New Jersey, as it impacts taxes, liability, and flexibility. Here’s an overview of business entities available for registration in the state:
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is the simplest form of business ownership, where an individual operates the business independently. The business and the owner are considered one legal entity, meaning the owner is fully responsible for all business debts and obligations.
Advantages:
- Easy and inexpensive to establish.
- Profits and losses are reported on the owner’s personal tax return.
- Complete control over decision-making.
Disadvantages:
- The owner is personally liable for business debts.
- Limited options for raising capital.
- Business continuity depends solely on the owner’s involvement.
General Partnership
A general partnership involves two or more individuals sharing ownership and management responsibilities for the business. All partners are equally responsible for the business’s debts and obligations.
Advantages:
- Simple to establish and operate.
- Profits and losses are passed through to partners’ personal tax returns.
- Flexibility in business management with multiple owners.
Disadvantages:
- Partners are personally liable for business debts.
- Personal liability extends to partners’ actions.
- Potential for disagreements between partners, which can disrupt operations.
Limited Partnership
A limited partnership (LP) consists of one or more general partners who manage the business and assume full liability and one or more limited partners who invest in the business but have limited liability. LPs are typically used in industries like real estate or venture capital.
Advantages:
- Limited liability for limited partners.
- No mandatory corporate formalities like annual meetings.
- Limited partners are not required to pay self-employment taxes.
Disadvantages:
- General partners are fully liable for business debts.
- Limited partners cannot participate in management.
- Limited partners risk losing their liability protection if they are involved in business operations.
Limited Liability Partnership
A limited liability partnership (LLP) is similar to an LP but provides limited liability protection for all partners, including general partners. LLPs are typically used by professional service businesses such as law firms or accounting practices.
Advantages:
- Limited liability protection for all partners.
- No mandatory corporate formalities.
- Profits are passed through to partners and taxed on their personal returns.
Disadvantages:
- Partners must be actively involved in the business to maintain limited liability.
- LLPs are complex to form and may not be suitable for small businesses.
- Partners can still be liable for malpractice or other legal issues.
Limited Liability Company
A limited liability company (LLC) combines the liability protection of a corporation with the flexibility of a partnership. LLC owners or members are not personally liable for the company’s debts, and the business itself does not face double taxation.
Advantages:
- Provides personal liability protection for business debts.
- Flexible profit distribution among members.
- Offers pass-through taxation, avoiding corporate taxes.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive and complicated to establish than a sole proprietorship or partnership.
- May face challenges in raising capital compared to corporations.
- Tax rules can vary depending on federal and state regulations.
C-Corporation
A C-corporation (C-corp) is a more formal and complex business structure. It is considered a separate legal entity from its owners (shareholders), meaning it can enter into contracts, own property, and be taxed independently of its shareholders.
Advantages:
- Limited liability for shareholders, protecting personal assets.
- Can raise capital by issuing shares of stock.
- Deductible employee benefits, such as health insurance.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive and time-consuming to establish and maintain.
- Subject to double taxation: the corporation pays taxes on profits, and shareholders pay taxes on dividends.
- Extensive regulatory requirements and paperwork.
S-Corporation
An S-Corporation (S-Corp) is a variant of the C-Corp that allows income to pass through to the shareholders, avoiding double taxation. However, there are restrictions on the number of shareholders and the types of stock that can be issued.
Advantages:
- Limited liability protection for shareholders.
- Avoids double taxation by passing income through to shareholders.
- Shareholders can offset corporate losses with income from other sources.
Disadvantages:
- Limited to 100 shareholders.
- More paperwork and regulatory requirements than in an LLC.
- S-Corps cannot provide stock options or raise venture capital in the same way as a C-Corp.
Nonprofit Corporation
A nonprofit corporation is a business entity formed to pursue social, educational, charitable, or religious goals rather than generate profits. Under IRS section 501(c)(3), nonprofits can apply for tax-exempt status, which provides significant tax advantages.
Advantages:
- Personal liability protection for directors and officers.
- Tax-exempt status for qualifying organizations.
- Ability to receive grants and donations.
Disadvantages:
- Complex and costly to establish and maintain.
- Fundraising can be challenging, particularly in economic downturns.
- Nonprofit boards cannot receive compensation for their service.
B-Corporation (Benefit Corporation)
A B-corporation (B-Corp) is a type of business that balances profit with social and environmental goals. B-corps must meet specific ethical standards and consider their impact on society, the environment, and stakeholders, in addition to shareholders.
Advantages:
- Builds trust with consumers, employees, and investors.
- Attracts mission-driven investors and employees.
- Focuses on positive social and environmental impact.
Disadvantages:
- No specific tax benefits over traditional corporate structures.
- Can be scrutinized for ethical practices.
- Challenges in securing traditional investors who prioritize financial returns.
For more information on business structures, the New Jersey Tax Guide: Starting a Business in New Jersey document provides additional insights and resources.
Useful Additional Information on the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services’ Website
In addition to business entity searches, the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website offers various services for both new and established businesses, including:
New Business Filings
The “New Business Filings” section guides individuals and companies through the registration process for businesses operating in the state. It outlines requirements for various business structures, including for-profit corporations, LLCs, and non-profits. Key steps include verifying business name availability, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and filing necessary forms like the Certificate of Formation/Authorization and employer registration form (Form NJ-REG).
Business Certification Program
The New Jersey Division of Revenue’s Business Certification Program offers certifications for Small Business Enterprises, Minority/Woman-Owned, Veteran/Disabled Veteran-Owned, LGBTQ+ Owned, and Socially Disadvantaged businesses.
Certification opens opportunities for set-aside contracts and provides state-backed recognition. The usual $100 application fee is currently waived, and applications can be submitted online.
New Jersey’s Online Annual Reports and Change Services
New Jersey’s Online Annual Reports and Change Services allow businesses to file annual reports, change their registered agent or office, reinstate a business, or close a business entity. Users can also amend their business details and update tax or employer information. Filings generate certificates as proof of submission.
Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Online Services
The New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services offers UCC Online Services, which enable users to submit UCC financing statements (UCC-1, UCC-3), search the UCC database, and download documents. Frequent users can create a Payment Management Services (PMS) account for secure payment storage and activity management.
Certificate Validation
The New Jersey Certificate Validation service allows users to verify certificates issued by the division that contain a validation number under the state seal. For Apostille/Certification documents printed after September 27, 2023, with certificate numbers starting with 85, users must contact the Notary Unit for validation.
Notary Public Registration
The New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services offers an online service for submitting new or renewal notary public applications. It allows users to check application status and search for active notaries.
New applicants must complete the Notary Commissioning Application, pass the Notary Public Exam, and review the Notary Public Manual.
New Jersey Business Search FAQ
The following section provides answers to some of the most common questions about business entity searches in New Jersey:
How Often Is the New Jersey Business Database Updated?
The New Jersey business entity database is typically updated within one to two days. This ensures that the information on business status, ownership, and registration is accurate and up-to-date.
Is an Account Needed To Use the New Jersey Business Entity Search Tool?
No account is needed to use the New Jersey business entity search tool. The tool is accessible to the public for searching business entity information without requiring registration or login.
Can You Get Document Copies Without an Account?
Yes, document copies can be obtained in the New Jersey business entity search tool without an account. Simply add the documents to the cart and pay the applicable fees using the accepted payment method.
Is There a Fee for Conducting a New Jersey Business Entity Search?
Conducting a basic business entity search in New Jersey is free. However, fees apply if document copies are requested through the search tool.
Can I Request a Refund if I Accidentally Ordered the Wrong Documents in the Search Tool?
Orders placed in error are not eligible for a refund, as per the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services policy.
How Long Does the Processing Take When Ordering Documents Through the Search Tool
Processing times vary based on payment method. eCheck payments may take up to 10 business days to process. Credit card payments are processed the same day, and most documents are available within 30 minutes, though some may take up to 24 hours.
What Should I Do if I Receive an Error Page?
If an error page appears while placing an order using the search tool, it is recommended that customer support be contacted for assistance.
Are Trade Names Searchable?
No, trade names are not searchable in the business entity search tool. There are separate tools available for that, including the Trade Name and Trade/Service Mark Status Report Search and the Trade Name and Trade/Service Mark List Search.
What Happens if there are No Search Results?
If the NJ business entity search tool does not provide results, it may indicate that no entity matches the search criteria. In this case, it is advised to double-check the search terms or try different variations. If needed, contacting the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services can help clarify the issue. Copyscape flagged one result (2%) for key terms related to other services.