Key Takeaways

  • A MassCorp Search lets you verify business name availability, check registration status, and access official filings from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth.
  • The state’s Corporations Division Database allows searches by entity name, individual name, identification number, or filing number.
  • Results include detailed public information such as business address, officers, filing history, and standing status.
  • Massachusetts offers a Corporations Book and Downloadable Data Files for in-depth company and tax status research.
  • Users can also perform trademark, UCC lien, and court record searches to identify potential conflicts or liabilities before forming a business.
  • The name reservation process allows a 60-day hold on a corporate name, renewable once for an additional 60 days.

You must conduct a Mass. corp. search (Massachusetts corporation search) in order to move forward with your plans to incorporate a business in the state. This will help you uncover all associated disclaimers, policies, legal information, etc. This process will also help you verify certification. Once you have all the information you need, you can reserve your corporate name. 

Massachusetts Business Entity Search 

To begin your Massachusetts corporation search, head to the "search for a business entity" through the Corporations Division. 

Here, you will be able to search by:

  • Entity Name 
  • Individual Name 
  • Identification Number 
  • Filing Number 

There are several steps to take when searching for the database by name, individuals, identification number, or filing number. Depending on your specific corporation search, the process will vary slightly. Utilize the information you currently have in order to uncover all relevant data and keep notes throughout your search. 

As mentioned, once you open the search database, you will have the option to select search by identification number, search by filing number, and so on. This will allow you to view the results that you require.

Here is an example for searching the database by individual name:

  • Step 1: Head to the search page and check the following box — "search by an individual name." You will then need to input the legal name that you would like to search. 
  • Step 2: You will now be able to view results. Simply select the entity you would like to learn more about. 
  • Step 3: Review all of the information provided. A series of links will also be accessible.

The Corporations Book 

Each year, the Corporations Subject to Taxation in Massachusetts listing (also known as the Corporations Book) is published online only. The online search program allows for both community-based and keyword searches. A link to the Secretary of the Commonwealth's Corporation Database can also be found, allowing you to access additional information that is not found in the corporation listing. 

Please note, since peak hours of operation can cause issues or delays when using the Corporation Book, it is recommended that you search for corporation information using the Downloadable Data Files. To do so:

  • Press the "Control" and "F" key simultaneously. 
  • A pop-up box will be displayed, allowing you to enter keywords to locate a corporation's name. 

The following links will be of use to you during this process:

If at any time you have questions or concerns, you can use the contact email: [email protected].

How to Verify Business Status in Massachusetts

A Massachusetts corporation search can confirm whether a company is in good standing. To verify this:

  1. Search by entity name or identification number.
  2. Review the “Status” field — active, inactive, dissolved, or revoked.
  3. Check for any administrative actions or failure to file annual reports.
  4. Use the Request Certificate of Good Standing link to order a certified record directly from the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Entities not in good standing may face penalties or limitations, such as loss of limited liability protections or inability to obtain financing. Performing this due diligence is a vital step before entering contracts or partnerships.

Understanding Massachusetts Corporation Search Results

When you perform a MassCorp search through the Corporations Division’s database, the results display several key data points that can help you verify an entity’s legitimacy and standing. Typical results include:

  • Entity Name and Type: Whether the business is a domestic or foreign corporation, LLC, LLP, or other entity type.
  • Identification Number: The unique ID assigned by the state to the entity.
  • Date of Organization or Registration: Useful for determining how long the business has been active.
  • Principal Office Address and Registered Agent: Critical for contact or service of process.
  • Status: Indicates if the entity is active, dissolved, or revoked.
  • Filings and Annual Reports: Provide insights into compliance history and any lapses in required filings.

Advanced searches also link to downloadable PDFs of official filings, including the Articles of Organization, amendments, or certificates of good standing.

Name Reservations

When reserving a name for your new business, here are some things you need to be aware of:

  • A corporate name can NOT be the same as any other existing corporation. It cannot even be close enough that it may be mistaken for another authorized business. 
  • Know that a corporation or business can submit a reservation request prior to filing a certificate with the Corporations Division. This will be filed in accordance with M.G.L Chapter 156D, s. 4.02. 
  • You can reserve a corporate name by delivering an Application of Reservation of Name (PDF) and a $30 filing fee to the Secretary of the Commonwealth. If that name is available, it will be reserved for 60 days. During this period, the applicant can extend his reservation for an additional 60 days, which costs an additional $30. 
  • Visit the Name Reservation Database and the Trademark Search Database. 

Business Name Rules and Restrictions

When completing a MassCorp name reservation, ensure your chosen name meets state requirements. The Secretary of the Commonwealth prohibits names that are:

  • Identical or deceptively similar to existing registered entities.
  • Containing restricted words like “bank,” “insurance,” or “trust” unless authorized.
  • Misleading about the type of business or implying association with a government body.

You can check for potential conflicts through the Trademark Search Database and Business Entity Search before submitting your reservation. If your name is approved, it remains reserved for 60 days and can be extended once by filing another request and paying an additional $30 fee.

Massachusetts Lien and Litigation Search Options 

For your reference, here is a quick guide to better assist you in searching for specific information on Massachusetts liens and litigation:

  • Secretary of the Commonwealth — UCC, State Tax Lien, and Miscellaneous Files.
  • U.S. District Court — IRS access and Federal Tax Liens.
  • County Register of Deeds — Recorded/Registered Land, UCC, Fixture Fillings, etc. 
  • Superior Court — Litigation and Civil Judgment. 
  • U.S Bankruptcy Court — Bankruptcy Proceedings. 

Depending on the information you seek, you may also need to contact the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, U.S. Court of Appeals, or even Probate and Family Court at the county level. If you require any assistance, your attorney can guide you through this process. 

Why a MassCorp Search Matters Before Incorporation

Conducting a MassCorp search before incorporation prevents common legal and administrative issues. It helps entrepreneurs:

  • Confirm the availability of their desired business name.
  • Avoid duplicate or conflicting filings.
  • Check whether similar entities are active or dissolved, reducing brand confusion.
  • Access verified public records to prepare accurate formation documents.

By confirming this information early, you ensure smooth registration with the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth and minimize the risk of rejection or disputes later.

Additional Searches: UCC, Trademark, and Court Records

Beyond the main MassCorp search, Massachusetts offers related databases to ensure a complete review of potential business risks:

  • UCC Filings: Accessed through the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website, UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) searches identify secured transactions and liens against business property.
  • Trademark Search: Helps verify brand or logo availability before registration to avoid infringement claims.
  • Court Records: Publicly available through the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access portal, which lists civil, criminal, and bankruptcy proceedings.
  • Tax Lien Records: Maintained by the Department of Revenue and U.S. District Court, these records reveal unpaid obligations or pending judgments.

These searches complement the MassCorp database and are especially useful during mergers, acquisitions, or due diligence reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a MassCorp search used for? A MassCorp search helps verify business name availability, confirm registration status, and access public filings for corporations and LLCs in Massachusetts.

2. How do I check if a Massachusetts business is active? Search the Corporations Division database and look for the “Status” field. If it reads “Active,” the entity is in good standing.

3. Can I reserve a business name before filing incorporation documents? Yes. You can reserve a name for 60 days with a $30 filing fee and renew once for another 60 days.

4. What information do I need to perform a MassCorp search? You can search by business name, individual name, identification number, or filing number to find the entity’s details.

5. Where can I find lien or litigation information? You can search UCC filings, state and federal lien databases, and Massachusetts court records for relevant financial or legal information.

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