To find out if a company is still active, try contacting the State Secretary where the business is registered or check on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, which has information and reviews. You can also contact your state’s Department of State to find out if a business is still active.
Researching Business Records
- Search for people with Bankruptcy and Debt Relief Restrictions.
- Navigate to the Secretary of State website for the state in which the corporation is registered and start your search.
- Look for a “Businesses” or “Corporations” tab to find company information.
- Use the state’s online entity name check tool to search business names and find out if another business is already using the name you have chosen.
- To check if a company has folded, find out if calls are answered by a live person, if mail is returned, check public records online, or contact the local Chamber of Commerce.
Tips for Finding Business Information
To find historical records for a business, check the Library of Congress or the county clerk’s office where the company was located. If you’re owed money by a defunct company, you should still be entitled to your money, even if they declare bankruptcy. If you’re owed money for a pension or 401(k), the company should have set up a plan with a custodian or financial company.