How to Conduct an Oregon Business Entity Search

According to Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB), the state has more than 400,000 small businesses, which make up 99% of all firms in Oregon, and these small businesses employ roughly 50% of all workers. Oregon is a hotbed of business activity with more new companies expected in the coming years.

Registering a business in Oregon provides advantages such as legal and tax benefits, personal liability protection, and the ability to be a formal entity. It also offers a way to meet specific requirements set by other agencies, provides proof of business operations for financial services, and can simplify tax matters for certain structures, such as sole proprietorships. Registration is also necessary to have the legal authority to do business in the state. Additionally, you can ensure you meet all state tax requirements. For instance, businesses with revenue over $30,000 annually may need to register for a GST/HST account.

For sole proprietorships, registering a business name other than your own allows you to report profits and losses on your personal tax return, simplifying tax matters. In this structure, you can use your Social Security number to file and pay taxes if you don't have employees.

Oregon's most prominent industries are high technology, specializing in semiconductors, electronic instruments, and software (e.g., Intel); bioscience and medical devices; footwear; outdoor gear; and apparel. Other major sectors in Oregon include agriculture and manufacturing (including metals, machinery, forestry, and wood products), as well as the food and beverage industry (including manufacturing and food services).

Allowable Entity Types in Oregon

Oregon allows the following business entity types: Sole Proprietorship, General Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Business Corporation, and Nonprofit Corporation. Other options include Limited Partnerships, Limited Liability Partnerships, cooperatives, and business trusts. The choice of entity affects your liability, taxation, and administrative requirements.

The most common types of businesses in Oregon are sole proprietorships, followed by limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations, reflecting both small-scale and more formal structures. While specific industries like technology, bioscience, and outdoor gear are prominent, the legal structures of these businesses are organized in common ways across the state.

Why Search for an Oregon Business Entity

One of the most common reasons to search for an Oregon business entity is to verify name availability and ensure your chosen company name is unique and legally compliant. Searching also allows you to find public records about an existing company, check its legal status and good standing, view its registered agent, and confirm its formation and renewal dates. This information helps avoid customer confusion and potential legal issues.

Some of the key reasons to search for an Arkansas business entity include:

• Name Availability: Ensure your desired business name is not already in use and is "distinguishable" from existing registered names. The Oregon Secretary of State's tool checks for names that are too similar, differing only by punctuation, capitalization, or business entity type (e.g., LLC vs. Inc.).

• Understand Liability: A search can help you compare different business structures, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) versus an Assumed Business Name (or DBA), to understand the liability differences. For example, an LLC limits an owner's personal liability, while a DBA owner carries all the business's liability personally.

• Ensure Uniqueness: A business name search helps you make a strong first impression and avoids legal trouble by ensuring your name is unique and not confusingly similar to another company's name.

• Check Legal Status: Verify if a business is in "good standing", is voluntarily dissolved, or has been terminated.

• Find Public Records: Access public details about a registered business, including its legal name, registry number, issuance date, and filing status.

• Due Diligence: You can research other businesses to understand the existing market, potential competitors, and partners.

• Preventing Issues: A proactive search can prevent the costly, time-consuming process of changing your name later if the name is already taken.

• Finding Information: You can find official information on registered businesses, including their legal structure, which can be helpful in various business-related decisions.

• Ensure Tax Compliance: A unique business name is crucial for tax purposes, as it ensures your business is correctly identified and associated with its tax obligations.

• Confirm Registered Agent Information: Use the search to find the registered agent for an existing company.

• Check Business Status: You can search for a "Certificate of Good Standing" to confirm that a business is current with all its state filings and franchise taxes.

• Research a Company: Search to find specific details like an entity's status, location, and registration type, or to view images of past filings submitted by the business.

• Investigate Potential Partners or Competitors: Researching a company can help you understand its history, structure, and regulatory compliance before making a business decision and jeopardizing your own company.

• Find a Business Organizer or Incorporator: If you know a founder's name, you can search for all the businesses they have been involved with.

• Gathering Information: Gathering information about a specific business for contracts, due diligence, or other legal research.

• Compliance: To check to see if a company is compliant with all local, state, and federal regulations.

• Name Reservations: To see if a preferred name is available to be reserved for a limited time, which can help secure a domain name and other branding elements while preparing to register the business formally.

• Before Investing: Conducting thorough due diligence when acquiring or investing in a business.

• Trademarks: Searching for registered trademarks to avoid conflicts.

How to Search for Business Entities

You may access information on business entities in Oregon by visiting the Oregon Secretary of State's official business search portal. The first step is to choose your search criteria. You can search this tool using the following options:

• Quick Search: Search using a business name or business registry number.

• Exact words in exact word order (Only. As keyed): Returns a list of business names that begin with the exact words entered, in the keyed order.

• Exact words in exact word order (Followed by anything else): Returns names that begin with the precise input and may include additional words after.

• Exact words in any order: Returns names containing all the inputted words in any order.

• Sound-alike words in exact word order: Returns names where the words are spelled similarly or sound alike, in the same order entered.

• Sound-alike words in any word order: Returns similar-sounding or similarly spelled names, regardless of word order.

• Extended search in any word order: The broadest search option, returning names containing the words or their synonyms.

Then review the search results.

What Information Can You Find with the Secretary of State?

After entering your search criteria, click the "Search" button to view the results. This is usually a list of key information about businesses that match the search criteria, such as their full name, type, registry number, status, and whether they have any associated businesses. Clicking on a specific entity usually provides access to more detailed records.

Some of the information you can find on the Secretary of State's website is as follows:

• Service Options: Business registry search, online filing portals, and document ordering.

• Business Information Center: Resources for starting, growing, moving, and closing a business.

• Business Registration Forms and Fees: Access to required forms and fee schedules.

• FAQs: Answers to frequently asked business-related questions.

• Small Business Assistance: Support resources tailored to small business owners.

• Contact Information and Support: Help with filings, searches, and support requests.

How to Access Detailed Information

Selecting a specific entity from the search results typically displays a detailed record that may include:

• Business entity data, such as the entity's registry number, registry date, entity type and status, its full name and foreign name (if any), jurisdiction, and renewal date.

• The entity's principal and mailing address

• Information on the entity's registered agent and certain other key personnel

• The entity's summary (filing) history

You may contact the Secretary of State's Corporation Division via email or by calling (503) 986-2200 for additional help accessing business entity information through the Oregon Business Registry Database.

What Business Entity Information is Not Public

In Oregon, the specific information not made public for business entities includes trade secrets, financial data like property and earnings reports, and personal information if it constitutes an unreasonable invasion of privacy. Additionally, individuals can use a commercial mail receiving agency or a virtual office as their registered agent address to avoid disclosing their home address for business purposes.

• Confidential Financial Data: This includes information from property tax returns, gross earnings reports, and other financial statements filed by certain regulated companies.

• Personal Addresses and Phone Numbers: Individuals can request that their home address and phone number not be disclosed if it would constitute an unreasonable invasion of privacy.

• Confidential Government Communications: This includes confidential communications between government officials and their lawyers.

• Information Submitted in Confidence: Any information voluntarily submitted to the state in confidence may be exempt from public disclosure.

• Registered Agent Address: You are allowed to use a commercial mail receiving agency (CMRA) or a virtual office as your registered agent's physical address to avoid making your home address public.

• Trade Secrets: Formulas, processes, methods, or other proprietary information that derives economic value from not being generally known to the public and is the subject of reasonable efforts to maintain its secrecy.

• Private Employee Medical Records: Medical and health insurance information.

• Customer and Employee Identifying Information: Identifying information like Social Security Numbers, driver's license numbers, and passport numbers.

• Revenue and Profit Numbers (unless a public company): Smaller companies that are not publicly traded can keep their financial data private.

• Bank and Credit Card Numbers: Bank and credit card numbers, as well as loan information.

How to Find EIN and UCC Records in Oregon

You cannot look up an EIN in a public database in Oregon, as there is no centralized, publicly available IRS directory of EINs. However, you can find a business's EIN by requesting it directly from the company, reviewing their tax documents, or using third-party resources such as the Oregon Secretary of State business search or the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search for nonprofits.

You can also quickly find EIN records using EntityCheck's EIN Lookup Tool.

You can find Oregon UCC records online through the Oregon Secretary of State's website, which allows for uncertified searches. For a certified search with official results, you must submit a request to the Secretary of State's office with the debtor's name and a fee. You can also order copies of filings by completing the UCC-11 form.

Try using EntityCheck's UCC Filings search tool to find liens on Oregon businesses.

How to Find DBA Records in Oregon

To find DBA (Assumed Business Name) records in Oregon, use the Oregon Business Entity Search on the Secretary of State's website. Search by business name to find public records, including assumed business names, and use the Business Name Availability Check for new registrations. If you cannot find the document you need, you may be able to submit a request for a copy or for more information through the Oregon Secretary of State's Corporation Division website.

How EntityCheck Business Background Report Helps You Research Companies

An even more insightful way to search for Oregon business entities and access additional information is to utilize EntityCheck's powerful search engine. Search quickly and easily by business name, EIN, owner, phone number, or email address. Along with the information above, you can dig deeper to find incredibly illuminating details such as:

• 
  UCC Filings

  Discover Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings, showing creditors' attachment to business assets. These files provide insight into the organization's financial stability by examining its standing debts and the risks they entail. Also find lien details, creditor and debtor information, filing and expiration dates, and collateral and asset claims.

• 
  Court Cases

  Evaluate a company's legal record to assess potential risks associated with its operations and identify any outstanding issues. Review bankruptcy filings, liens and judgments, federal court cases, litigation, and legal history of ongoing and past court cases.

• 
  Licenses

  Verify business credentials, including licenses, permits, and government certifications, as well as the educational backgrounds of decision-makers, to assess credibility.

• 
  Filing & Compliance

  Review a company's financial performance reports, DBAs (Doing Business As), and government Tax IDs.

• 
  Trademarks & Patents

  Find out what intellectual properties a company controls and review the details of any trademarks and patents it holds.

• 
  Registered Individuals

  Identify key decision-makers, registered agents, corporate officers, and leadership, even if this information is not readily available through official records.

Alternative Resources Beyond the SOS (Secretary of State) Search

The Oregon Secretary of State is not the only place you can find business data. The government has multiple offices and agencies where you might find even more information.

Some additional resources to check when evaluating a company are the following:

• Oregon Department of Revenue: Oregon's Department of Revenue, founded in 1909, collects revenue from multiple revenue streams, including personal income tax, corporate excise tax, marijuana retail tax, corporate activity tax, and cigarette and other tobacco tax programs, among others. The state relies heavily on this income to fund state and local services.

• Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services: The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) is the state's largest agency for consumer and business protection and regulation. It administers state laws and rules to protect consumers and workers by overseeing areas such as workers' compensation, occupational safety and health, financial services, insurance, and building codes. DCBS also promotes a favorable business climate by providing resources, setting standards, and enforcing rules.

• Oregon State Chamber of Commerce: The Oregon State Chamber of Commerce (OSCC) advocates for local businesses at the state level, representing a coalition of local chambers and over 27,000 businesses. Its main functions include championing pro-business legislation at the Capitol, strengthening local chambers through professional development, and providing businesses with information and a voice on issues affecting them. The OSCC also supports its members through professional development and by partnering with other business organizations.

• Oregon Department of Justice: The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the state's legal counsel, representing state agencies and advocating for the public interest. Its main functions include enforcing consumer protection laws, assisting district attorneys, supporting crime victims, and administering child support services. The department also oversees charitable organizations, prosecutes criminal cases, and protects vulnerable populations.

• Oregon Construction Contractors Board: The Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) regulates construction contracting businesses to protect consumers by licensing contractors, investigating complaints, and penalizing unlawful activity. The CCB also provides dispute-resolution services for homeowners and licensed contractors, enforces rules governing surety bonds, and offers resources for both contractors and consumers through education and public outreach.

• Oregon Division of Financial Regulation: The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) oversees and regulates the state's financial services industry to protect consumers. It accomplishes this by licensing and supervising companies such as insurance agencies, banks, credit unions, and mortgage lenders; investigating complaints; providing consumer education; and ensuring a competitive, fair marketplace. The DFR ensures financial institutions are financially sound, claims are handled fairly, and that Oregonians have access to legitimate products and services.

• Oregon Employment Department: The Oregon Employment Department is a state agency that provides services for both job seekers and employers, including unemployment benefits, job search assistance, workforce development, and economic data. It administers unemployment insurance, helps businesses find qualified workers, provides job-seeker resources through WorkSource Oregon, and develops and distributes workforce and economic information. The department also manages Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance benefits.

• Oregon Business Development Department (Business Oregon): The Oregon Business Development Department, or Business Oregon, promotes economic development in the state through initiatives such as business retention and expansion, rural community development, export promotion, and entrepreneurship support. It offers financial and technical assistance, including loans, grants, tax incentives, and counseling, to help businesses grow and create jobs. The department also works on industry innovation, supports the arts and culture sector, and helps facilitate international trade.

• Local County Clerk's Offices: Oregon County Clerk's Offices primarily handle public records and elections. They act as the official keeper of county records, including real property transactions, plats, and court documents, and they manage and conduct all county elections, voter registration, and related services. They keep public records for court cases, including dockets, and are responsible for processing fines and fees. They manage and preserve official county documents, including the Commissioner's Journal and orders. Depending on the county, they may also handle documents like liens, marriage licenses, and birth/death certificates.

How to Find the Owner of a Business Entity in Oregon

While some businesses provide information about their owners or management structure on their official websites, others may not publicly disclose comprehensive ownership details. As such, you may need to utilize additional resources to determine the ownership or management structure of a business entity in Oregon.

You may consider utilizing the Oregon Secretary of State's Business Registry Database to get the required information. This database typically allows interested members of the public to access a broad range of information on registered business entities in the state, including each entity's registered agent and manager(s).

Some of the ways you can find an Oregon business owner are:

• Company Website: Many companies list their owners or key executives on an "About Us" or "Contact" page on their website.

• LinkedIn: Search for the business on LinkedIn, as the owners and other key personnel are often listed there.

Additional Resources for Business Ownership Info

Some additional resources for finding out who owns an Oregon business are as follows:

• The Oregon State Chamber of Commerce: The state chamber of commerce (as well as local chambers across Oregon) typically maintains information on member businesses, which may include details about the business's owners and/or key personnel.

• The Better Business Bureau (BBB): The BBB's Oregon chapter usually provides consumer reports on businesses operating within the state, which may include information on a business's ownership or executives.

• Public Records: Court records, real estate records, business licenses, and other similar public documents about a business typically contain ownership-related information.

• News and Financial Outlets: Search for news articles or financial information on sites like AllBusiness.com or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website, especially for publicly traded companies.

• Commercial Services: Use EntityCheck to quickly and easily find the owners, directors, officers, and associates of an organization.

Types of Owners and Their Roles

Oregon offers various business leadership/ownership roles, including executive positions such as CEO, CFO, and COO; functional leadership roles, such as marketing, sales, and HR managers and directors; and operational leadership roles, such as operations and project managers. Other examples include small business advisors and consultants who help businesses with specific needs. The complete list is as follows:

Executive and C-Suite

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

• Chief Operations Officer (COO)

• Chief Pharmacy Officer

• Chief Nursing Officer

• Vice President (VP) of various departments, such as Commercial Contracting or Digital

Functional Leadership

• Director of Marketing/Sales/Human Resources: Oversee departments and strategy

• Talent Acquisition Manager: Focuses on hiring and recruitment

• Business Liaison: Connects with external partners and stakeholders

• Controller: Manages accounting and financial reporting

• Financial Manager: Oversees financial planning and analysis

Operations and Project Management

• Operations Manager: Leads day-to-day business operations

• Project Manager: Manages specific projects from start to finish

• District Manager: Oversees multiple store locations

• IT Director: Manages information technology resources

• Property Director: Manages real estate assets

• Fleet Maintenance Operations Manager: Manages vehicle and equipment maintenance operations

Specialized and Advisory Roles

• Business Advisor/Consultant: Provides expert advice for business improvement

• Business Analyst: Specializes in data analysis to improve processes and systems

• HR Business Partner: Works with specific business units to support HR functions

• Quality Control, Safety, and Environmental Manager: Ensures compliance with quality and safety standards

• Process Improvement Lead: Focuses on streamlining business processes

• Small Business Advisor: Assists entrepreneurs with starting and growing a small business

Different entity structures have various roles and types of ownership. Some individuals who have control over a company may not hold a traditional role within it. Leadership is a crucial factor to understand before working with a company. Oregon also has some specialized roles, such as Business Analyst, Actuarial Analyst, PR Manager, and Corporate R&D Chef.

Some of the more conventional roles within companies include:

• Shareholders (or Stockholders): They own the corporation by purchasing stock, which grants them voting rights to elect the Board of Directors and influence major corporate decisions.

• Directors: Directors set the strategic course for the corporation, make major decisions, and oversee the conduct of the officers.

• Officers: Officers, such as presidents (CEO) and secretaries, manage the day-to-day operations of the business and are hired and fired by the Board of Directors.

• Members: Members are the owners of the LLC. They can also serve as managers or delegate management to others. Members are typically protected from personal liability for the company's debts.

• Managers: Managers, whether members or non-members, are responsible for managing the business and affairs of the LLC.

• General Partners: They manage the business affairs as outlined in the partnership agreement. General partners are entirely liable for all business debts and obligations.

• Limited Partners: Limited partners have limited management rights. Their liability is typically limited to their investment in the business, providing them with some protection from business debts.

Red Flags to Look for When Searching Business Entities

When researching Oregon companies, you may come across information that is confusing or suspicious. Watch out for these red flags, as they could indicate a larger issue that could ultimately affect you and your business if you partner with them.

Red flags when researching Oregon business entities include a lack of physical contact information, inconsistent or error-filled documents, claims of exemption from registration, a history of lawsuits or liens, pressure to make immediate decisions, and guarantees of returns. Be wary of misleading solicitations, such as those claiming to be official filings but issued by private companies, and confirm that the business is properly licensed with the appropriate state agency.

Entity Status Problems

Entity status issues in Oregon often stem from administrative dissolution for failure to file annual reports or from voluntary withdrawal, resulting in "inactive" or "dissolved" status. These issues prevent businesses from maintaining good standing and can impact their ability to operate legally, access capital, or remain in compliance with state requirements. Always verify that a business is "in good standing" before investing in or partnering with them.

While a business can be registered with a name that is not "distinguishable" from another, it is still a red flag that the business might be trying to confuse consumers or operate in a way that lacks transparency. Verify the company's registered name and check for any DBAs associated with it.

Inconsistent or Suspicious Information

Keep an eye out for any inconsistent or suspicious data, too. For example, be suspicious of businesses that do not provide a physical address and use only a P.O. box. Mismatched details between the Secretary of State's database and other sources, like the business's website or social media, can indicate a lack of transparency or organization.

Be cautious about frequent changes to the address or registered agent, as this may indicate instability or an attempt to evade service of process.

Look for spelling errors, poor grammar, or inconsistencies in how the company name is used throughout documents.

If a representative says the company is exempt from registration or other state requirements, investigate these claims thoroughly.

Ownership and Management Concerns

How a company manages operations and its people says a lot. Poor management can start at the top and reach the lowest regions, affecting all parts of the company. This is a huge red flag to watch out for.

Some common legal issues for Oregon employers include wage and hour violations, discrimination and harassment (including sexual harassment), retaliation, and issues related to leave laws like the Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA) and Paid Leave Oregon. Other areas of concern include wrongful termination, failure to accommodate disabilities, and handling of employment agreements. Companies in trouble for these infractions are clearly not taking care of their workers.

Some additional compliance issues include violations of the "Ban the Box" law and other regulations that restrict what employers can ask during the hiring process. Inappropriate drug and alcohol testing and penalizing employees for taking time off for jury duty are other issues in Oregon.

Financial Warning Signs

A company's financial troubles can quickly become your own if you aren't careful. For example, a persistent downward trend in revenue, profit, or customer numbers, even for a short period, could signal fundamental problems.

Before acquiring, investing in, or partnering with a company, thoroughly review its financials. Watch out for excessive debt, late payments, rising inventory while profits decline, missing assets, inadequate documentation, or duplicates. All of these could indicate poor management, misappropriation of funds, and fraud.

Legal and Compliance Issues

Companies with a history of legal or compliance issues are best avoided. Research the business and its owners for a history of bankruptcies, lawsuits, liens, or enforcement actions.

The state registry doesn't verify licenses. You must check whether the business is properly licensed for its industry with the correct agency.

Be aware that the official filing for the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is done online and is free. Companies that send you a form for a fee are soliciting business and are not part of the official process.

Common business lawsuits in Oregon include breach of contract, consumer protection claims such as fraud and defective products, employment disputes such as wage and hour complaints and discrimination, and tort claims such as personal injury. Partner and shareholder disputes also frequently arise, particularly in smaller businesses.

Connections & Affiliations

A company's connections and affiliations can tell quite a story. Sometimes one person runs multiple dissolved/failed companies. Look for repeat patterns of dissolutions followed by new formations. That is a significant indicator of potential fraud. One thing to be cautious of is a company with ties to organized crime figures and politically exposed persons (PEPs). If the company makes a concerted effort to conceal its actual owner or person in charge, that should be a clear warning to stay away.

Some red flags in broader business records include the following:

Inconsistent Public Records

• Company filings don't match what's listed in:

  • Court records

  • Tax records

  • Property ownership filings

  • An example of this is that the registered address differs from the address in lawsuits or liens.

Poor Record-Keeping

• Missing meeting minutes (for corporations).

• No updated ownership/member list for LLCs.

• Lack of transparency in accounting records.

Regulatory Issues

• Fines, sanctions, or loss of licenses with state agencies.

• Businesses flagged by the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's office.

Unusual Patterns

• Very recent incorporation with sudden high activity.

• Foreign entities registered but not compliant with local laws.

• Shell-company indicators (multiple entities tied to the same registered agent at the same address).

Best Practices When Reviewing Business Entity Records

Utilize the best practices outlined below to maximize the benefits of your research. A business background check can take time, but it can yield a wealth of information that could help you avoid any costly mistakes.

• Cross-reference everything.

• Compare the UCC filing data with records from litigation and bankruptcy courts. Look for discrepancies between the documents.

• Check annual reports for consistency year-over-year.

• Research the owners of a company to detect possible bankruptcies, felonies, fraud, and other legal issues that could affect your business.

• Use business verification services or business background reports from EntityCheck.

• Keep in mind the context. For example, a single lien may not be alarming, but multiple filings, lawsuits, and frequent leadership turnover together signal real risk.

How to Register an Entity in Oregon

When starting a business in Oregon, it is generally advisable to confirm that your desired business name is available and compliant with state regulations; doing this helps you avoid issues down the line.

Depending on the business entity you choose, the process may vary, but the general steps to register an entity in Oregon are as follows:

• Create a business plan.

• Select a business name and structure.

• Register the business with the Oregon Secretary of State's Corporate Division (except sole proprietorships and general partnerships unless using an assumed business name).

• Comply with tax obligations by obtaining a BIN from the Oregon Department of Revenue and an EIN from the IRS.

• Use the license directory to determine applicable licenses, permits, and certifications.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in Oregon?

Filing fees for registering a business with the Oregon Secretary of State generally range from $50 - $275, depending on the business structure and whether it's domestic or foreign.

• Base Filing Fees: Range from $50 to $275, depending on the entity type.

• Additional Fees: Trademark, licensing, and professional service fees may apply.

Oregon business names must be distinguishable from existing business names in the state's registry, meaning they cannot be identical except for factors like punctuation, capitalization, or articles.

When naming your new company, you must follow Oregon's strict naming guidelines. They are as follows:

• Uniqueness: The name must be distinguishable from all other registered entities. Minor changes, such as adding an "s", changing punctuation, or altering capitalization, are not enough to make a name distinguishable.

• Disguised Identity: The name cannot be confusingly similar to a government agency, such as "FBI" or "Treasurer".

• Permitted Characters: Names can be composed of English letters (a-z) and Arabic/Roman numerals (0-9), and special characters and punctuation are allowed.

• Mandatory Suffix: The name must end with "limited liability company", "LLC", or "L.L.C".

• Prohibited Words: You cannot use words or abbreviations that suggest a different business structure, such as "Corporation", "Incorporated", "Inc.", or "Corp.".

• Restricted Words: Some words, like "bank" or "attorney", may require additional paperwork and a licensed professional to be part of the LLC.

• Register a DBA: If your business operates under a name different from its legal name, you must register an Assumed Business Name (also called a DBA or fictitious name) with the Secretary of State's office.

FAQs

1. How do I look up who owns an LLC in Oregon (members vs. managers)?

   You can look up an LLC's owners in Oregon by using the Oregon Secretary of State's online business search portal to find the LLC's formation documents, which may list members or managers. If the public record doesn't list owners, you may need to contact the registered agent or search other public records, such as the company website or local licenses.

2. How can I find a corporation's officers and directors in the state?

   You can find a corporation's officers and directors by searching the Secretary of State's business entity database for your state, checking the company's official website (especially the "About Us" or "Investor Relations" sections), or by looking at SEC filings for public companies. For more information, you can also use other resources like LinkedIn, general internet searches, or company news articles.

   You can also use EntityCheck's powerful search engine to find a company's officers, directors, and associates, along with related data.

3. Are business owners' names public or private in Oregon?

   In Oregon, business owners' names are public if they operate under an assumed business name (DBA), as the owner's identity is required to be registered with the Secretary of State for public identification. This information is part of the permanent business registry, accessible through the Secretary of State's website. However, some personal details, such as home address, may be protected from public disclosure unless explicitly exempted by law.

4. Where do I search official business records in the state?

   You can search for official business records in the state by using the Secretary of State's online business database, which is the primary source for registered businesses. Additionally, you can check with local Oregon county or city government offices to find official business records.

5. How do I check if a business name is available or reserved in Oregon?

   You can check if a business name is available or reserved in Oregon by using the Oregon Secretary of State's online Business Entity Search tool. Search for your desired name on the Secretary of State website to see if a similar or identical name is already registered and active. It's also a good idea to perform an additional search through the Oregon Secretary of State's trademark database and to check for available domain names and social media handles.

6. How can I view recent filings (Articles, amendments, mergers, annual/biennial reports) for a company in Oregon?

   You can view a company's filings in Oregon by searching the Oregon Secretary of State's Business Registry online. For documents not available online, you can submit a "Request for Copy" form to the Oregon Secretary of State. This form can be used to request a Document File, which includes original articles, amendments, mergers, and other key filings, or to request specific documents, such as annual reports. Submit the form to the Oregon Secretary of State to receive the documents by mail or other available means.

7. How do I get a Certificate of Good Standing/Existence in Oregon?

   To get a Certificate of Existence in Oregon, you can order it online through the Oregon Business Registry by logging in and selecting "Certificate of Existence", then paying the $10 fee. Alternatively, you can complete a request form and submit it by fax or mail. This certificate, also known as a Certificate of Good Standing, serves as proof that the business is registered and up to date with the state.

8. How do I obtain certified copies of formation documents and amendments in the state?

   To get certified copies of formation documents and amendments, you must request them from the Secretary of State in the state where the entity was formed. This typically involves submitting a written request, either online, by mail, or by fax, with the business's official name, the specific documents needed, a statement requesting certified copies, and payment for the required fees.

9. How do I search UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) liens against a company in Oregon?

   To search for a UCC lien against a company in Oregon, you can perform an uncertified online search or request a certified search from the Oregon Secretary of State's website. You will need the company's full legal name and should be prepared to search for both UCC and tax liens.

   You can also use EntityCheck's UCC Filings search tool to find liens against an Oregon company.

10. What are the steps to register an LLC in Oregon (forms, fees, timeline)?

    To register an LLC in Oregon, you must file Articles of Organization with the Oregon Secretary of State, appoint a registered agent, and pay a $100 filing fee. Online filings typically take about three business days, while mail filings may take longer. You will also need to decide on a business name and may need an EIN from the IRS.

11. What are the steps to incorporate (C-Corp/S-Corp) in Oregon?

    To incorporate as a C-Corp or S-Corp in Oregon, first, choose a unique business name and designate a registered agent. Then, file the Articles of Incorporation with the Oregon Secretary of State and pay the filing fee. Finally, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, create internal corporate bylaws, and if electing S-Corp status, file IRS Form 2553.

12. Do I need a registered agent in the state, and who can serve as one?

    Yes, you need a registered agent in Oregon for your business, and they can be an individual who lives in Oregon or a registered business entity. The registered agent must have a physical street address in Oregon, be available during regular business hours to receive legal documents, such as service of process, and can be you, an employee, a business entity, or a professional registered agent service.

13. What annual reports, franchise/margin taxes, or license renewals are required in Oregon?

    Oregon requires most LLCs and corporations to file an annual report with the Oregon Secretary of State. Additionally, businesses must file state income or excise tax returns, and certain professions have separate license renewal and financial reporting requirements.

    Insurance companies must file a specific excise tax return, Form OR-20-INS. Assumed business name renewals are required every two years. Oregon does not have a franchise or margin tax. Certain professions, such as investment advisors, have specific annual financial reporting requirements or license renewal requirements that must be filed with the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation. Charitable organizations may need to file an IRS Form 990 or 990EZ with their annual report.

14. How long does state approval take in Oregon, and are expedited options available?

    Oregon's state approval time varies by agency and service, but online processing for an LLC is faster (2-3 business days) than mail (4-6 weeks). For a business name registration, online processing takes about 30 business days. Expedited options are not available for all services (online or mail), so it is best to check the specific requirements for your application.

15. Do I need to foreign-qualify to do business in Oregon if my company is formed elsewhere?

    Yes, you will need to foreign-qualify to do business in Oregon if your company is formed elsewhere and engages in certain activities, such as maintaining an office, having employees, or holding property in the state. This is done by filing an Application for Authority with the Oregon Secretary of State to obtain a Certificate of Authority.

16. What activities count as "doing business" in the state?

    Several activities are considered doing business in Oregon. Corporations that are doing business in Oregon or have income from an Oregon source are required to file an excise or income tax return. "Doing business" means being engaged in any profit-seeking activity in Oregon. Some other things that count are having employees, purchasing and storing personal property for sale, or maintaining an office.

17. How do I file a DBA/fictitious business name in Oregon, and is county/city filing required?

    To file a DBA in Oregon, you must register the name with the Oregon Secretary of State and pay a $50 fee. Unlike some other states, Oregon requires you to register the assumed business name with the state, but you must also file county-specific registrations because an identical name can be registered in different counties. You will need to complete an "Assumed Business Name" application, including the new name, your business address, and the names and addresses of the business owners.

18. How do I change my company's name, address, officers, or members with the state?

    To change your company's information, you must file an amendment form with your state's Secretary of State, as well as update federal agencies like the IRS and local authorities. For a name change, file Articles of Amendment and verify the new name is available first. For other changes like address or officers, you can use Articles of Amendment or a different form, depending on your state's requirements and whether you've already filed your annual report.

19. How do I reinstate or revive a company that's been administratively dissolved in Oregon?

    To reinstate an administratively dissolved Oregon business, you must file a reinstatement application with the Oregon Secretary of State, resolve the issue that caused the dissolution (like filing missed annual reports), and pay all required fees, including a reinstatement fee of $100 for each missed annual report. You can complete this process online or by mail.

20. Do I need to file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN, and how does that interact with Oregon filings?

    No, many U.S. companies do not need to file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN, as a court order has removed this requirement for domestic entities. For Oregon filings, the state requires you to report beneficial ownership information to the Oregon Secretary of State, which is a separate filing from the federal requirement. You must file the BOI with the state of Oregon if your company is created there, but not with FinCEN.