Business Name Availability and Entity Checks
To find out if a business name is free in Colorado, visit the Colorado Secretary of State website and open its business database search tool. Just below the search bar, you will get a name availability search option. Enter the business name to determine if it is available.
Note that the entity name check should always occur in the state where the business was incorporated, not necessarily where it is currently active. To find out if a specific business name is available for your Colorado business, Swyft Filings’ free business name search tool can also be used.
Business Ownership and Legitimacy
The business database search tool does not directly show who owns a business but can provide clues. The search result lists the registered agent, who may also be the owner. Formation and compliance documents linked in the results may have been signed by the owners.
To check if a business is legitimate in Colorado, visit the Colorado Secretary of State website, select "Search business database," enter the record name or ID number, and perform the search. A list of entities with similar names will display if a name is entered.
Starting a Business and Filing Documents
To start a business in Colorado, follow these steps:
- Choose a name for your business.
- Choose the right type of business entity.
- Register your business with the CO Secretary of State.
Filing the Articles of Organization for an LLC in Colorado requires submitting your formation documents with the Secretary of State online and paying a $50 filing fee.
Additional Information
Carolyn Young is a business writer focused on entrepreneurial concepts and business formation, with over 25 years of experience in various business roles and authorship of entrepreneurship textbooks.
For more help with starting a business, refer to the Colorado Business Resource Book. Information on registering and maintaining a new business is provided.
Mineral Rights Ownership
To find out who owns mineral rights in Colorado, contact your local Recording Department in the Clerk & Recorder’s Office to access records of property deeds and research mineral rights ownership associated with your land.
Business Name Changes
To inquire about changing an LLC name in Colorado, reference form A11 from the Secretary of State resources.