North Carolina is home to 1.1 million small businesses, which account for 99.6% of all enterprises in the state. These businesses support 1.7 million jobs—representing 44.2% of the state’s workforce. Data from the 2024 Small Business Administration (SBA) report highlights small businesses contributing over 100,000 new jobs to the economy.
North Carolina’s business landscape is uniquely positioned for success due to its low corporate tax rate and skilled workforce. Various industries thrive within the state, supported by initiatives like the Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program, which promotes opportunities for minority-owned businesses. The North Carolina Secretary of State (SOS) offers an efficient and user-friendly system for exploring registered businesses.
The following sections outline the steps for navigating the business registry and obtaining valuable information about entities within the state.
Head to the North Carolina SOS Business Entity Search Page
The North Carolina Secretary of State (SOS) maintains a comprehensive database of all registered businesses within the state.
To access this resource, users should visit the official North Carolina Secretary of State website. From the “Online Services” menu in the header, they can select “Business Search” from the available options.
Alternatively, users can go directly to https://www.sosnc.gov/online_services/search/.
Perform a Search Using the Preferred Criteria
Users can choose from several search criteria, the most commonly used being the “Company by Name” search. It is also useful for checking whether a business name is available.
Along with the name search, users can refine their search by filtering results using other criteria, such as the SOSID (Secretary of State identification number), registered agents, and company officials. Users can also search for assumed business names on a separate page if needed. The tool allows filtering the search according to the filing date and county.
Find the North Carolina Business Entity in the Search Results
After completing the search, the results will show active and inactive businesses matching the search criteria. Users can click the plus sign (“+”) on each result to view key details such as the entity name, SOSID, date formed, business type, and business status.
Users can select the “More Information” option to access more information about a specific business. From the search results, users can also:
- View filings related to the business.
- File an annual report.
- Access online filing options.
- Order a document related to the business.
- Add the company to their email notification list for updates and alerts.
View the Details of the North Carolina Business Entity
Users can select the desired entity from the search results to view the following details of a North Carolina business entity:
- Legal Name
- SOSID
- Status
- Date Formed
- Citizenship
- State of Incorporation
- Fiscal Month
- Registered Agent
- Mailing Addresses
- Officers
- Stock Information
Several actions are also available on the entity’s detailed page. Users can file or amend an annual report, access online filing options, order official business documents directly online, review the entity’s filings, print a pre-populated annual report form with existing details for convenience, or generate a printable form to submit amendments to an annual report.
Further Assistance
For individuals seeking additional assistance with North Carolina business entities, the SOS can be reached through the following contact details:
- Office Address: 2 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 29622, Raleigh, NC 27626-0622
- Phone Number: (919) 814-5400
- Email Address: [email protected]
The SOS office can help with the navigation of the business search tool, address questions about business records, and offer guidance on specific inquiries. Those who prefer in-person assistance can visit the Raleigh office during regular business hours, while remote assistance is available via phone, email, or the official website.
Why Do a North Carolina Entity Search?
Conducting a North Carolina entity search protects business interests by offering detailed insights into a company’s registration, compliance status, and operational background. The key advantages of performing a North Carolina entity search are outlined below:
- Checking Name Availability: Checking the availability of a business name allows companies to start on the right foot. This step should be addressed early as specific legal guidelines govern which names are permissible. The SOS requires business names to avoid suggesting illegal activities, be distinguishable from existing entities, and exclude offensive or inappropriate language.
- Confirming Ownership and Registered Agent Information: Access to details such as the names of officers, directors, or key stakeholders can help verify a business’s legitimacy. Confirming the registered agent’s information can also guarantee compliance with state regulations and help better address legal matters, such as service of process.
- Researching Minority and Women-Owned Businesses: North Carolina has a strong commitment to fostering diversity in business ownership. The state also has initiatives like the Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) to help these businesses thrive. Many government contracts and private sector initiatives require specific work allocation to diverse suppliers. A business entity search can easily verify whether a business meets these diversity standards.
- Monitoring Legal Compliance: Staying on top of a business’s legal standing is key to avoiding surprises, and entity searches make this task much easier. By checking the status of annual reports, entrepreneurs and businesses can ensure they are up to date with their filings, remain in good standing, and comply with state regulations.
- Reviewing Industrial Classification: North Carolina’s economy spans various sectors, from technology to manufacturing. Businesses can identify their sector by conducting an entity search and assessing how they align with competitors or market trends. Additionally, this information helps businesses adhere to industry-specific regulations, which can vary widely depending on the sector.
- Vetting Potential Suppliers and Contractors: Utilizing the business entity database can be a smart strategy to mitigate risks when dealing with suppliers and contractors, including avoiding potential scams. These searches give access to crucial documents like annual reports and incorporation records, often needed to make informed legal and financial decisions.
Who Holds Data for North Carolina Business Entity Search
In addition to the North Carolina SOS (Secretary of State), several other officials and departments maintain data related to business entities in the state. These include:
North Carolina Department of Commerce
The North Carolina Department of Commerce holds records that support economic development, compliance, and state industry research. These records include information on export/import activities, employment data, business registrations specific to various industries, and participation in business incentive programs. The department’s Business Search portal provides access to state company data.
It allows users to search for North Carolina businesses by name, industry, region, size, or keyword using the 4-digit NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code. The search is especially useful for market research and competitive analysis. For those looking to ensure they meet licensing requirements, the North Carolina Business Online Licensing Database (NCBOLD) helps businesses find the licenses they need to operate in the state.
This database also details the organizations responsible for issuing and regulating these licenses.
North Carolina Department of Insurance
The North Carolina Department of Insurance (NCDOI) oversees records for more than 27,600 insurance and finance businesses operating in the state.
It handles licensing for various insurance-related industries, including insurance producers, adjusters, and specific sectors like bail bondsmen, captive insurance, and continuing care retirement communities. In addition to licensing, NCDOI monitors business compliance and protects consumers by tracking regulatory filings, insurance appointments, and terminations.
To make this information accessible, NCDOI provides a lookup tool that allows individuals and businesses to easily verify the status of licensed entities.
North Carolina Industrial Commission
The North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) manages key records related to workers’ compensation, employment disputes, and safety compliance.
As the regulatory authority overseeing workers’ compensation claims and safety standards, the NCIC checks businesses’ compliance with industry-specific regulations.
One of the main tools offered by the NCIC is the Insurance Coverage Search System, which allows users to verify essential insurance details. This system enables individuals to check a business’s workers’ compensation coverage, find the employer’s business address, and identify the insurance carrier responsible for the coverage.
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) manages records related to environmental permits, compliance, and regulations across various industries. It offers the Environmental Application Tracker, a resource for tracking environmental applications and permits.
The department also provides access to online public records, including environmental impact assessments and compliance data, so businesses stay informed and maintain environmental standards.
County Clerk’s Offices
County clerk’s offices in North Carolina keep local records for businesses operating within their respective counties. These offices manage a variety of filings that may not be required at the state level. Key records include DBA (Doing Business As) registrations, local licenses and permits, and county-specific business documents.
These offices also maintain county-specific property records tied to business locations, as well as local tax records or liens. County clerk records verify the legal status of businesses exempt from state-level filing and ensure compliance with local regulations.
These records are accessible by visiting the county clerk’s office in person or checking their official website.
City Clerk’s Office
City clerk’s offices in North Carolina also manage business records at the local level. They manage local zoning and property records, which determine whether a business can legally operate in a specific area based on zoning regulations.
In addition, these offices track local tax records and liens and enforce local ordinances related to health codes, safety standards, and other municipal requirements.
Records are accessible online or in person at city clerk offices.
Federal Agencies
Federal agencies also hold key records relevant to business entities in North Carolina. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) stores records related to businesses with federally registered trademarks, such as application information, registration dates, and the current status of trademark protections.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) oversees business tax filings, including federal tax identification numbers (EINs), tax returns, and other related documents.
The IRS also monitors any outstanding tax liabilities, penalties, or other financial obligations that could impact a business’s operations. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also provide reports and data on their websites for public access.
Commercial Database Providers
Commercial database providers compile and manage extensive business entity records by aggregating data from various public sources. Prominent providers in the state include Dun & Bradstreet, LexisNexis, and Data.com. Access to these records is generally offered through paid subscriptions or one-time report purchases.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in North Carolina?
Starting a business involves making important decisions about the business structure, often with advice from legal and financial experts. Entrepreneurs must consider tax implications, personal liability, and the formality required. In North Carolina, the common business entity types entrepreneurs can consider include the following:
- Business Corporations: A corporation is owned by its shareholders and managed by a board of directors, elected and governed by the Articles of Incorporation and corporate bylaws. Shareholders enjoy limited liability, meaning their financial responsibility is limited to their investment in the corporation. However, corporations face “double taxation,” where the corporation pays taxes on its earnings, and shareholders are also taxed on dividends or other distributions. While a business corporation defaults as a “C” Corporation, it can elect to be taxed as an “S” Corporation. When the income is passed through to shareholders, businesses avoid corporate-level taxation.
- Nonprofit Corporations: Nonprofit corporations in North Carolina are managed by a board of directors and may include members who contribute to decision-making. Like business corporations, nonprofit corporations offer limited liability protection to members, which means they are not personally liable for the corporation’s debts. If a nonprofit meets the IRS criteria for tax exemption, it is generally not subject to income taxes but must continue to follow state and federal guidelines to maintain its status. Nonprofit organizations that plan to solicit public donations may need to apply for a charitable solicitation license.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): A key advantage of an LLC is the limited liability protection it offers. Members are only personally liable for the company’s debts up to the amount of their capital contributions. The LLC itself does not pay income taxes, making it a “pass-through” entity—members are individually taxed on the income they earn from the business. Depending on the operating agreement, an LLC’s management can be handled by its members or by designated managers.
- Professional PLLC: A professional LLC operates similarly to a regular LLC but is designed specifically for licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or accountants. In North Carolina, PLLCs are formed by filing Articles of Organization in compliance with both the Limited Liability Company Act and Chapter 55B. Just like a standard LLC, a PLLC limits the personal liability of its members, except when it comes to professional malpractice. The tax treatment of a PLLC is the same as that of an LLC.
- General Partnership: A general partnership arises when two or more individuals come together to do business without establishing a separate legal entity. Although it does not require state registration, if the partnership operates under a name other than the partners’ legal names, a certificate of assumed name must be filed with the local register of deeds. In a general partnership, all partners share equal responsibility for the business’s debts and liabilities. Unlike corporations or LLCs, a general partnership does not exist as a separate tax entity. Instead, profits and losses pass through to the individual partners, who report them on their personal tax returns.
- Limited Partnership (LP): An LP is a more structured partnership with two types of partners: general partners, who manage the business and have unlimited liability for its debts, and limited partners, whose liability is limited to the amount they have invested in the business. In North Carolina, an LP is formed by filing a certificate of limited partnership with the state. This structure allows limited partners to invest in the business without taking on the same level of risk as the general partners.
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): LLPs are popular among professionals, such as law firms and accounting practices, as they offer them the benefits of partnership while limiting personal liability. In an LLP, all partners enjoy limited liability, which means they are not personally responsible for the partnership’s debts or obligations. However, partners remain liable for their own professional malpractice.
- Limited Liability Limited Partnership (LLLP): The LLLP is an evolution of the traditional limited partnership that provides liability protection for both general and limited partners. This structure is created by the partners’ agreement and registration with the state under North Carolina General Statutes 59-59-210. LLLPs offer an additional layer of security for general partners, who would typically have unlimited liability in a standard limited partnership.
Useful Additional Information on the North Carolina Secretary of State’s Websites
The North Carolina SOS (Secretary of State) website offers numerous resources aimed at helping businesses and individuals navigate the state’s business requirements. Its key features include:
Online Business Services
The Online Business Services is a platform designed to simplify various aspects of business management. With just a few clicks, businesses can easily submit key documents, including annual reports and other important filings.
Whether registering a new entity or maintaining an existing one, users can file creation filings for new businesses or submit necessary documents for established entities, all from the convenience of their devices. The site provides account management tools for those managing multiple accounts. The platform also allows for the ordering of certified documents so that businesses have the necessary paperwork to stay compliant and up-to-date.
Additionally, the e-notification subscription allows firms to monitor their activities in real-time to fight identity theft and fraud.
Rural RISE NC
Rural RISE NC is an initiative that facilitates access to critical resources for businesses in rural areas of North Carolina. The platform connects business owners with various support services, including mentorship, business counseling, and funding opportunities. These resources are designed to assist entrepreneurs from inception to growth.
One of Rural RISE NC’s primary advantages is that many of the available resources are free. The platform features a searchable web interface that allows users to locate relevant resources. Users only need to select their county to view the full range of available support.
For a more refined search, individuals can filter the results by county and resource type.
Securities Complaint
The Securities Complaint section on the SOS website allows individuals to report violations of securities laws or investment adviser regulations. The complaints are typically related to issues such as:
- Fraudulent or misleading practices by securities professionals, brokers, or investment advisers
- Failure to adhere to state and federal securities laws
- Mismanagement or unethical conduct within securities transactions
- Potential violations by entities or individuals offering investments or financial advice without proper registration or licensing
- Unfair or illegal practices that may harm investors
Its purpose is to help maintain market integrity by enabling the public to inform the Securities Division of suspicious activities.
Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Search
The UCC search lets users find UCC filings related to secured transactions. UCC filings record security interests in personal property and protect creditors’ rights in case of default or bankruptcy.
Users can search UCC records by debtor name, filing date, or document number. The process helps businesses, lenders, and individuals verify the status of liens or secured interests before engaging in financial transactions.
North Carolina Business Search FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions to assist individuals in understanding business entity searches in North Dakota:
How Often Is the Business Entity Database in North Carolina Updated?
The business entity database in North Carolina is typically updated daily. Updates may include new filings, annual reports, amendments, and business status changes.
Is There a Fee for Conducting a North Carolina Business Entity Search?
There is no fee for conducting a basic business entity search in North Carolina. Users can search for information about businesses, including their status and filing details, free of charge.
Do I Need an Account to Search for Business Entities in North Carolina?
An account is not required to search for business entities in North Carolina. The business entity search feature is publicly accessible, so users can view entity details without needing registration or login. However, certain services, such as filing documents or accessing detailed reports, may require an account.
Why Do Foreign Entities Have More Than One Name in the North Carolina Database?
Foreign entities may have their legal home state name and fictitious name in the database. When the legal name from their home state or country is not distinguishable from other entities in North Carolina’s records, separate records are created. “Home State” identifies the legal name.
What Should I Do If I Cannot Find the Current Year’s Annual Report for an Entity in The Search Tool?
If the annual report is not found, contact the Business Registration Division. Due to high filing volumes, paper filings may take up to 180 days to be processed and scanned. Online filings are immediately available.
Can You Search for a Sole Proprietorship and Partnership Using the North Carolina Business Entity Search Tool?
Sole proprietorships and general partnerships that operate under the personal names of the owners and do not register under a formal business structure or name are not required to file with the SOS. As such, their records will not appear on the business entity search tool.
What Does It Mean When the Business Status in the Search Results Shows “Admin. Cancelled”?
The “Admin. Cancelled” status indicates that the North Carolina SOS has canceled a business entity’s initial creation document due to an issue with the filing fee.
Are Nonprofit Organizations Searchable in North Carolina?
Yes, nonprofit organizations can be searched in North Carolina. The SOS also offers a separate search tool for charities.