Delaware (DE) Secretary of State (SOS) LLC & Business Search

The State of Delaware provides a business search functionality which enables you to search for both active and inactive entities in their database and obtain key information about the business. You can search for businesses on their database using the following perimeters:

• Entity name
• File number

Search by entity name

You can search the State of Delaware Division of Corporations database by entity name which can be a general search for the name or you can search for a precise match using quotation marks.

The search results will include all businesses that include the words you have entered or the precise words if you used quotation marks. The list includes the file number and entity name.

You can see further information about the business by clicking on the entity name and the following details will be listed:

• File number
• Entity name
• Entity kind
• Residency
• Incorporation/formation date
• Entity type
• State
• Agent details

They offer additional information for a fee of $10 to check their status or $20 if you want further information including current franchise tax assessment, current filing history and more.

Search by file number

If you know the business’ file number, you can search their database by file number.

The results from a file number search should produce a single record with the file number and entity name displayed. You can view more details about the business by clicking on the entity name highlighted in blue to see details including formation date, entity kind and agent details plus more as listed above under search by entity name.

Contact details

Website: https://icis.corp.delaware.gov/Ecorp/EntitySearch/NameSearch.aspx

Phone: (302) 739-3073

Address: Division of Corporations, PO Box 898, Dover, DE 19903

Hours: Monday-Friday 8.30am-4.00pm

Email: corp@delaware.gov

How to register a business in Delaware?

If you want to register a business in Delaware then the following steps can help you:

1. Choose which business entity type you are going to operate your business as.
2. Appoint a registered agent who is located within Delaware as this is a requirement in Delaware. This can be someone in your business if you are located within Delaware.
3. You can reserve your business name if you want to for 120 days for a cost of $75.
4. Complete incorporation or formation forms which can be completed online or mailed, fees start at $89.
5. Obtain a Federal Identification Number (FEIN) with the IRS.

How much does a Delaware business entity search cost?

The State of Delaware does not charge for business searches on its database. They offer additional information for a fee of $10 to check their status or $20 if you want further information including current franchise tax assessment, current filing history and more.

How can I get a business license in Delaware?

All businesses trading in the State of Delaware must get a business license from the Delaware Division of Revenue through their One Stop Business Licensing and Renewal service. Business license fees can vary depending on the location of your business and the number of locations you have. Typically the fee is $75 for the first location.

Additional licenses may be required depending on your location and industry, you should check with your local and county office for details.