The Missouri Business Entity Search is an online tool provided by the state government that allows individuals & businesses to search for information about registered companies & organizations operating within the state. This search tool is designed to provide access to public records related to various types of business entities, such as corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships, and non-profit organizations. By using this search feature, users can obtain details about a specific entity, including its legal name, registration status, formation date, registered agent information & other relevant details.

The Missouri Business Entity Search is a valuable resource for individuals and businesses seeking to verify the legitimacy and standing of a company before engaging in transactions or partnerships. It can also be useful for researchers, journalists, or anyone interested in gathering information about registered entities in the state. To access the Missouri Business Entity Search, users typically need to visit the official website of the Missouri Secretary of State’s office, which oversees business registrations and filings in the state. The search interface is user-friendly, allowing users to enter the name or other identifying information of the entity they wish to search for.

Why Do You Need to Search for a Business in Missouri?

Missouri is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is known for its diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. If you are looking to start or expand a business in Missouri, it is important to conduct thorough research to ensure that your venture aligns with the state’s business environment and market conditions. Searching for a business in Missouri can provide valuable insights into the local market, competition, & potential opportunities. By understanding the specific needs and preferences of consumers in the state, you can tailor your products or services to meet their demands effectively.

Also, researching the regulatory environment, tax policies and available incentives can help you make informed decisions about establishing or growing your business in Missouri. Also, exploring the state’s infrastructure, transportation networks, and access to resources can be crucial for ensuring efficient operations & supply chain management. Missouri’s central location and well-developed transportation systems can be advantageous for businesses that require efficient distribution or access to regional markets. Overall, conducting thorough research on a business in Missouri can help you identify potential challenges, mitigate risks, and capitalize on opportunities within the state’s diverse economic landscape.

Step-by-step guide to an MO SOS Business Search

1: Using the Missouri Secretary of State (SOS) Business Entity Search Tool

To search for a business entity on the Missouri Secretary of State website, follow these simple steps:

On the homepage, look for the “Business Entity Search” section or a similar link.

If you want to register a business name, such as “Devanti Studio,” you can search for it using the search bar. You can select multiple options from the drop-down menu including “Start With,” “Include Keyword,” and “Any Word Exact Match.” After selecting your desired options, click the “Search” button to see the results, as shown in the screenshot.

First, check if the exact name of your LLC (Devanti Studio) is already registered on the Missouri Business Entity Search website. If it is not registered, then you can proceed with that name and register your business with it.

Step 1: Review your search results After you submit your search, you will be able to access records and detailed information about businesses registered in Missouri.

This information will include the following: –

• Business name
• Charter number
• Business type
• Status: Active, dissolved, canceled, expired or in good standing
• Creation date
• Registered agent name

Step 2: Business registration details To further your search, you have the option to select from your search results to retrieve more detailed information that will include the following: –

• Domesticity
• Office address
• Contact information
• Home state
• Duration

Filings It’s important to note that this is not the final step before confirming the availability of your business name. It is recommended that you take the extra step to conduct a state and federal trademark name search before applying to reserve the business name.

2: By contacting the Missouri Secretary of State

The Missouri Secretary of State provides a way for you to check if the name you want to use for your business is available. You can contact them by phone, email, or through their website to search for your desired business name and find out if it is available for registering a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

Here are the contact details:

Website: https://www.sos.mo.gov/

Phone number: (573) 751-4936 or 1-866-223-6535 (toll-free)

Office address: 600 W Main St., Jefferson City, MO 65101-0778

Mailing address: P.O. Box 778, Jefferson City, MO 65102

Hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Email: corporations@sos.mo.gov

You can call them, send an email, or visit their website to inquire about the availability of your desired business name for registering an LLC in Missouri.

How to Find Out Who Owns a Business in Missouri?

To determine who owns a business in Missouri, you can search for ownership information on the Secretary of State’s website. Here are the steps:

First, visit the Missouri Secretary of State’s website. On the homepage, look for a section labeled “Business Services” or “Business Entities.” Click on the appropriate link. Next, you’ll be taken to a page with various options for searching business records. Look for a search field or button that allows you to search by the business name or other identifying information.

Enter the name of the business you’re interested in, or any other relevant details you may have, such as the business entity type (e.g. corporation, LLC, etc.) or the charter number. Once you’ve entered the search criteria, click the “Search” button or equivalent option. The search results will display the business entity’s information, including the names of the registered agents, officers, or owners associated with the business. Review the ownership information carefully to identify the individuals or entities listed as owners or principals of the business.

Then follow these steps to find their Contact information: Name, Email, Phone, Social Media details.

Business Registration Requirements in Missouri

Registering a Business in Missouri: A Simple Guide To legally operate a business in Missouri, you need to follow certain steps to register it with the state. Here’s a straightforward explanation of the process:

1. Choose a Business Name: Select a unique name for your business that is not already in use by another company in Missouri. Ensure it complies with the state’s naming guidelines.

2. Decide on a Business Structure: Determine the type of business entity you want to form, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each structure has different legal and tax implications.

3. Appoint a Registered Agent: A registered agent is an individual or company authorized to receive legal documents on behalf of your business. They must have a physical address in Missouri.

4. File Formation Documents: Depending on your chosen business structure, you may need to file formation documents with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office. For example, LLCs & corporations must file Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation respectively.

5. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Certain businesses may require specific licenses or permits to operate legally in Missouri. Research the requirements for your industry & location.

6. Register for Taxes: Register your business with the Missouri Department of Revenue to obtain necessary tax identification numbers, such as a sales tax license or employer identification number (EIN).

7. Comply with Local Requirements: Check with your city or county for any additional local regulations or permits needed to operate your business legally.

By following these steps you can properly register your business in Missouri and ensure compliance with state laws and regulations. It’s always advisable to consult with legal or professional advisors for guidance specific to your business situation.

Registered an LLC? Next steps to start your business in MO

Forming a limited liability company (LLC) is a crucial step in starting a business, but there are several additional steps to take to get your venture up and running. Here’s a breakdown of the next steps: Paragraph

1: After registering your LLC, you’ll need to secure a domain name for your business website. Namecheap is a popular and affordable option for purchasing a domain. Once you have a domain, you’ll need to purchase web hosting, which allows your website to be accessible on the internet.

Look for a shared hosting plan that fits your budget and meets your website’s requirements. Many hosting providers offer affordable plans suitable for small businesses.

2: With your domain & hosting in place, you can design your business website. Essential pages to include are the home page, contact page, blog about page, and services page. The home page should provide an overview of your business, while the contact page should make it easy for potential customers to reach out.

A blog can help establish your expertise and attract visitors through search engines. The about page should introduce your company and team, and the services page should detail the products or services you offer.

For more comprehensive guidance on setting up your business website refer to reputable online resources or seek professional assistance if needed. Click here to read the complete Guide.

Choosing the Right Types of Business Entities You Can Register in Missouri

There are several types of business entities you can register in the state of Missouri. These include:

Sole Proprietorship: This is a business owned and operated by a single individual. It is the simplest and most common form of business organization. The owner is personally responsible for all debts and liabilities of the business.

Partnership: A partnership is a business owned by two or more individuals who share in the profits & losses of the business. There are different types of partnerships, such as general partnerships and limited partnerships.

Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC is a hybrid business structure that combines the limited liability protection of a corporation with the tax advantages of a partnership or sole proprietorship. It is a popular choice for small businesses and startups.

Corporation: A corporation is a separate legal entity from its owners (shareholders). It provides limited liability protection for its shareholders, meaning their assets are generally protected from the debts and liabilities of the business. There are different types of corporations, such as C-corporations and S-corporations.

Non-Profit Organization: A non-profit organization is a legal entity that operates for charitable, educational, or other purposes that benefit the public rather than generating profits for owners or shareholders. These are the main types of business entities you can register in Missouri.

Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to carefully consider your specific business needs & goals when choosing the appropriate structure.

Missouri Business Registration Cost

Missouri Business Registration Cost Registering a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Missouri does not require any annual fees to be paid to the Secretary of State. However, if you have hired a Registered Agent service, you will need to pay an annual subscription fee, which is typically around $125 per year. Also, some LLCs may need to obtain a business license in Missouri depending on the nature of their operations.

Conclusion

Conducting a Missouri business entity search is crucial for several reasons. It helps ensure that your proposed business name is available and not already in use by another company. This search also allows you to verify the legal status and standing of existing businesses, which is essential when considering potential partnerships, acquisitions, or investments. Staying compliant with Missouri business laws is vital for avoiding penalties, fines, or even the potential dissolution of your company.

By understanding & adhering to the state’s regulations regarding business formation, taxation, licensing, and reporting requirements, you can maintain your business’s legal standing and protect your interests. Failure to comply with these laws can result in costly consequences and jeopardize the success of your venture.

FAQs

Do I need a license to start a business in Missouri?

It depends! Unless you are running a foreign corporation, there are no statewide business license requirements. However, the type of business and the location where you start it will determine if a license is necessary. You can find this information from the county or city business licensing office.

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Missouri?

To start an LLC, you must pay $50 to file the organization papers online and $150 by mail, which is required to start an LLC in Missouri. However, it is important to note that a registered agent is required to receive legal documents in the state of Missouri. The cost of hiring a registered agent can range between $40 and $300.

How can I check if a business name is available in Missouri?

You can use the business entity search tool on the Missouri Secretary of State business website to check if a business name is available.