Business Records Search: Florida Sunbiz Lookup

Business Records search in Florida’s Sunbiz system lets anyone verify a company’s legal name, formation date, and current status with just a few clicks, satisfying the most common user intent of “how to find a business by name” or “how to check if a business is active.” By entering a business name, owner, address, registration number, filing number, or even the name of a registered agent, users can retrieve detailed business entity records, including corporate officers, members, and DBA information. The portal hosts corporate records, LLC filings, partnership agreements, nonprofit registrations, and foreign entity entries, making it a one‑stop business database for both casual inquiries and professional due‑diligence. Because the search returns official filing documents, users can quickly confirm ownership, verify a company’s status as active, inactive, dissolved, or reinstated, and view the principal business address or mailing address. This immediate access reduces the time spent on “why can’t I find a business record” frustrations and supports accurate decision‑making for investors, lenders, and partners.

Business Records lookup also supports advanced queries such as “business records by owner,” “business search by address,” and “business registration search by filing number,” allowing precise filtering when multiple entities share similar names. The platform displays entity type—corporation, LLC, partnership, sole proprietorship, or professional corporation—alongside the entity number, registration date, and state of formation, which helps answer “how to find a business filing number” or “how to view business filing documents.” Users can also explore assumed name records, trade name filings, and DBA registrations to uncover hidden aliases or trade names. By presenting the full filing history, including amendments, annual reports, and dissolution records, the Sunbiz portal ensures that every query, from “how to find a registered agent” to “how to verify business registration information,” yields reliable, publicly available data without the need for extra paperwork or third‑party services.

How to Search Business Records

You can search Business Records through the Florida Division of Corporations’ official Sunbiz portal, which serves as the central filing database for every entity registered to do business in Florida. The portal lets you query deed records by name, owner name, address, registered agent, filing number, or document number, returning results drawn directly from the state’s official filing index. Each query displays matching entities along with their current status, document number, and filing type, giving you the key facts needed to identify the right record. To start, you enter your search criteria into the field on the Sunbiz home page, then review the list of results to find the correct business.

Official Search Portal

https://search.sunbiz.org/

Steps to Search

• Open the Sunbiz search portal at the URL listed above and pick the search option that matches your inquiry, such as “Search by Name,” “Search by Registered Agent,” or “Search by Document Number.”
• Enter the full or partial business name, owner name, street address, or registered agent details into the search field, using correct spelling to keep results relevant.
• Apply extra filters for entity type, status, or jurisdiction when the first search returns too many matches, then scan the listed entities to find the correct record.
• Select the entity name from the results list to open its detail page, which displays the filing history, registered agent, principal address, and all filed documents.
• Download or print any filing image by clicking the document number, or record the filing number for later verification, due diligence, or follow-up research.

The Sunbiz portal also offers a range of filters you can apply to narrow results once you run a basic search.

• Filter by entity type (corporation, LLC, partnership, nonprofit, or foreign entity).
• Filter by status (active, inactive, dissolved, revoked, forfeited, or reinstated).
• Filter by jurisdiction or registered agent name.
• Sort results alphabetically or by document number.
• Search for an officer, director, member, manager, or partner by name.

Search by Business Name

Searching by business name is the most common lookup method, and it works best when you know the exact legal name or a close version of it. The Sunbiz search field accepts partial names, so entering a keyword like “Sunshine” returns every entity whose legal name contains that term. The results page lists each match with the entity’s status, document number, and filing type, letting you quickly spot the correct company. If you only know a trade name or assumed name, switch to the “Search by Name” option under the assumed name section for accurate results.

Search by Business Owner

You can search for Business Records by entering the name of an individual owner or corporate officer into the officer or director search field. The portal returns every entity where that person appears on the current filing, which helps you identify companies tied to a specific person. This search type works for sole proprietors, LLC members, corporate officers, and general partners alike, showing the full list of their active affiliations. Results display the entity name, document number, and the title the owner holds within each company.

Search by Address

Address-based searches help you locate businesses operating from a specific street address, suite, or city within Florida. You enter the street number and street name into the address search field, and Sunbiz returns every entity whose principal office, mailing address, or registered office matches that location. This lookup is useful when you want to confirm whether a company operates from a claimed address or to find neighboring businesses. Some companies use a registered agent address rather than a real office address, so results may differ from physical storefront searches.

Search by Business ID or Filing Number

The fastest way to locate a specific Business Record is to enter the entity’s document number or filing number directly into the search field. This method skips name matching and opens the exact record you need without sorting through similar results. Document numbers appear on every official filing, certificate, and annual report, making them easy to find on prior paperwork. Once you submit the number, the detail page loads immediately with the full filing history and all submitted documents.

Search by Registered Agent

Searching by registered agent helps you find every entity represented by a specific agent or agent company, which is useful when verifying service of process or compliance contacts. You enter the agent’s name or the agent company’s name, and Sunbiz returns the complete list of businesses under that agent’s umbrella. This search type helps you spot patterns of related entities filed by the same agent service. Each result shows the entity name, document number, and status, giving you a complete picture of the agent’s client portfolio.

Search by Entity Type

Filtering by entity type helps you narrow results to a specific structure, such as corporation, LLC, partnership, or nonprofit. The Sunbiz portal offers separate search tabs for corporations, limited liability companies, and other entity types, letting you target the right category. This method works well when you know the entity’s legal structure but not its exact name, or when you want to review all entities of a certain type in a region. Combining entity type with a name keyword produces highly focused results within seconds.

Search by Business Status

Status-based searches let you filter records by their current standing, such as active, inactive, dissolved, revoked, forfeited, or reinstated. You select a status from the filter menu after running your initial name or number query, and the results update to show only entities in that category. This lookup helps you verify whether a company is still authorized to operate, which is critical for lenders, investors, and vendors. Status history is also displayed on the detail page, showing every status change recorded since the entity’s formation.

Business Record Data

A complete Business Record on Sunbiz displays the core facts you need to identify and verify a company, such as its legal name, entity type, identification numbers, and formation date. Each detail page organizes this data into clearly labeled fields that match the official filing documents on file with the Division of Corporations. Reviewing these fields gives you the foundation for any due diligence, partnership evaluation, or compliance check. Below is a breakdown of the main data points you will encounter on every record, along with a quick-reference list of the key fields.

• Legal business name and entity type.
• Document number and filing number.
• Formation date and state of formation.
• Current status and status history.
• Principal address, mailing address, and registered office.
• Registered agent name and registered agent address.
• Officers, directors, members, managers, and partners.

Legal Business Name

The legal business name is the official name registered with the Florida Division of Corporations and used on all formation documents. This name appears at the top of the detail page, followed by the entity type, document number, and filing date. It is the name the company must use on contracts, tax filings, and public signage unless it has also registered an assumed name. You should always confirm the legal name before entering into any business transaction with the entity.

Assumed or Trade Name

An assumed or trade name, often called a DBA (“doing business as”), is a name a business uses that differs from its legal name. Florida requires companies to file assumed name registrations separately with the Division of Corporations, and these filings are searchable through the dedicated assumed name search. The Business Record itself does not list assumed names, the entity’s filing history may show cross-references to related assumed name filings. Checking the assumed name index helps you uncover hidden aliases, brand names, or marketing identities tied to the same owner.

Business Entity Type

The entity type field identifies the legal structure of the business, such as Florida profit corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership, or nonprofit corporation. This field helps you understand the company’s liability profile, tax treatment, and governance requirements at a glance. The entity type also determines which Florida statutes govern the company’s operations and annual filings. Reviewing this field is a quick way to confirm the company matches the structure described in contracts or marketing materials.

Business Identification Number

Florida assigns two key identification numbers to every entity: the document number and the filing number. The document number tracks the original formation filing and stays with the entity throughout its life, even if status changes. The filing number identifies each individual document submitted to the Division, such as amendments, annual reports, and dissolutions. Both numbers appear on the detail page and serve as unique references for ordering certified copies or tracking specific transactions.

Formation Date

The formation date shows when the company was officially registered with the Florida Division of Corporations, marking the start of its legal existence in the state. This date appears next to the entity name on the detail page and helps you gauge the company’s longevity and track record. A long history of active filings signals stability, while a recent formation date may warrant extra verification. The formation date also serves as a reference point for statutory deadlines tied to annual reports and reinstatements.

Business Status

The status field shows the company’s current standing with the state, such as active, inactive, dissolved, revoked, forfeited, or reinstated. An active status means the entity is authorized to conduct business in Florida and is up to date on its required filings. A dissolved or revoked status means the company has stopped operating or lost its authority to operate, which is critical data for anyone considering a partnership or credit extension. The status history section shows every transition, giving you a timeline of the entity’s compliance record.

Principal Business Address

The principal business address is the primary location where the company conducts its operations and receives official correspondence. This address appears in the mailing address field on the detail page and is often the same as the registered office address. Reviewing this field helps you confirm whether the company operates from the location it advertises or claims on contracts. Address changes are tracked in the filing history, showing every prior address on record.

Registered Agent Details

The registered agent is the person or company designated to receive legal documents, service of process, and official notices on behalf of the business. The agent’s name and address appear on the detail page under the registered agent section, including any agent company name and the street address used for service. Florida law requires every entity to maintain a registered agent at all times, and lapses can result in administrative dissolution. Confirming the agent’s details is essential for anyone needing to serve legal papers or verify compliance.

Business Entity Types

Florida recognizes several distinct Business Entity Types, each with its own formation requirements, governance rules, and tax treatment. Knowing the differences helps you interpret death records results correctly and confirm that a company is operating under the structure it claims. The Sunbiz portal categorizes entities into searchable tabs, making it easy to focus on one type at a time. The table below summarizes the main entity types filed with the Florida Division of Corporations.

Corporations

A Florida corporation is a legal entity formed under Chapter 607 of the Florida Statutes, with shareholders who own the company and a board of directors who oversee its management. Corporations issue shares, hold annual meetings, and file annual reports to maintain their active status. The Sunbiz detail page for a corporation shows the corporate officers, directors, and the name and address of the registered agent. Searching the corporation tab returns only entities formed under this chapter, keeping your results focused on this structure.

Limited Liability Companies

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) combines the liability protection of a corporation with the operational flexibility of a partnership. Florida LLCs are formed by filing Articles of Organization under Chapter 605 of the Florida Statutes, and they are governed by members or designated managers. The Sunbiz portal lists each LLC’s members, managers, and authorized representatives on the detail page, making it easy to identify the people behind the company. LLCs also file annual reports to keep their records current with the Division.

Partnerships

Florida recognizes general partnerships, limited partnerships, and limited liability partnerships, each with its own statutory framework. General partnerships involve two or more partners sharing management and liability. Limited partnerships add limited partners whose liability is capped at their investment. The Sunbiz portal lists each partnership’s general partners, limited partners, and registered agent, helping you verify the structure and decision-makers. Partnership searches also surface professional partnerships and joint ventures registered in Florida.

Sole Proprietorships

A sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single person, without a separate legal entity filing with the Division of Corporations. Sole proprietorships do not file formation documents with the state, so they do not appear in the standard Business Records search. The owner may file an assumed name registration if the business operates under a name other than the owner’s legal name. To find a sole proprietorship, you typically rely on assumed name records or county-level occupational license databases.

Nonprofit Organizations

A nonprofit corporation is formed under Chapter 617 of the Florida Statutes for charitable, educational, religious, or other public-purpose activities. Nonprofits file Articles of Incorporation, designate a board of directors, and often apply for federal tax-exempt status with the IRS. On Sunbiz, nonprofit records appear in the corporation search and show the entity’s status, directors, and registered agent. Reviewing nonprofit filings helps you verify an organization’s good standing before making a donation or grant.

Professional Entities

Professional entities are corporations or LLCs formed by licensed professionals, such as physicians, attorneys, accountants, and architects. Florida law requires these entities to comply with the rules of their licensing board, and the entity name usually includes a professional designation like “P.A.” or “P.L.” The Sunbiz detail page shows the licensed professional members or shareholders, the entity type, and the formation date. Searching for professional entities helps you confirm a practice is legally registered and operated by licensed individuals.

Foreign Business Entities

A foreign business entity is one formed under the laws of another state or country that has registered to transact business in Florida. Foreign entities file an Application by Foreign Entity for Authorization to Transact Business in Florida and maintain a Florida registered agent. The Sunbiz detail page for a foreign entity shows the entity’s home state, Florida registration date, and Florida registered agent. Searching for foreign entities is useful for verifying out-of-state companies that operate within Florida.

Business Ownership and Management

Every Business Record on Sunbiz identifies the people and entities responsible for owning and managing the company. Ownership and management details appear on the detail page and include officers, directors, members, managers, partners, and the registered agent. Reviewing these fields helps you understand who controls the company, who signs contracts on its behalf, and who can be contacted for legal matters. The sections below break down the roles that appear on a typical Florida Business Record.

Business Owners

Business owners are the individuals or entities that hold an ownership stake in the company, whether through shares, membership interests, or partnership stakes. On the Sunbiz detail page, owners are listed under the officers or members section, depending on the entity type. The owner field typically shows the owner’s full legal name and the title they hold within the company. Tracking ownership helps you identify the parties with ultimate financial interest in the entity.

Members and Managers

In an LLC, members are the owners of the company, while managers are the individuals or entities designated to handle day-to-day operations. Florida LLCs can be member-managed or manager-managed, and the operating agreement specifies which structure applies. The Sunbiz detail page lists each member and any manager with their official name and address. Reviewing this data helps you identify the decision-makers responsible for the LLC’s contracts and obligations.

Corporate Officers

Corporate officers hold formal positions within a corporation, such as president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, or chief executive officer. Each officer is named on the Sunbiz detail page with their official title, and the corporation’s bylaws govern their authority. Officer data is updated through annual reports and amendments filed with the Division of Corporations. Verifying officer titles helps you confirm the authority of the person signing documents on the corporation’s behalf.

Directors

Directors form the board that oversees a corporation’s major decisions, sets corporate policy, and appoints officers. Florida corporations must have at least one director, and the Sunbiz detail page lists each director’s name and address. Director data updates whenever a new annual report or amendment is filed, keeping the public record current. Reviewing the director list helps you understand the governance structure and identify potential conflicts of interest.

Partners

Partners are the individuals or entities that share ownership and management duties in a partnership. General partners have unlimited liability and active management roles. Limited partners have liability capped at their investment and typically do not participate in management. The Sunbiz detail page identifies each partner’s role, name, and address. Checking the partner list helps you evaluate who controls a partnership and who is exposed to liability.

Registered Agents

Registered agents are the individuals or companies appointed to accept legal documents, service of process, and official state correspondence on the entity’s behalf. Florida law requires every entity to maintain a registered agent with a physical Florida street address. The agent’s name and address appear on the Sunbiz detail page, and agents can be individual Floridians or commercial registered agent companies. Confirming the agent’s details is essential for serving legal papers or sending official notices.

Ownership and Management Changes

Ownership and management changes happen frequently as businesses grow, restructure, or transfer interests. In Florida, most changes are reported through the annual report or by filing an amendment to the entity’s governing documents. The Sunbiz filing history captures each change, showing the prior and current officers, directors, or members. Reviewing this history gives you a timeline of who has controlled the company over time.

Business Registration Data

Business Registration Data is the core data tied to an entity’s formation and ongoing compliance with the Florida Division of Corporations. This data appears on the Sunbiz detail page and includes the formation date, registration number, entity status, and state of formation. Together, these fields confirm when and where the entity was formed, how it is classified, and whether it remains in good standing. The following sections describe each registration field in detail.

Formation Records

Formation records are the original documents filed to create the entity, such as Articles of Incorporation for corporations or Articles of Organization for LLCs. These documents establish the entity’s legal existence and set out its basic structure, name, and purpose. On Sunbiz, the formation record appears as the first item in the filing history with the original filing date. Reviewing formation records helps you confirm the legal foundation of the business and the names of its initial organizers.

Registration Date

The registration date is the day the Division of Corporations officially accepted and filed the entity’s formation documents, marking the start of the entity’s legal life in Florida. This date appears on the detail page next to the entity name and serves as the official formation date for statutory deadlines. Annual report cycles, reinstatement windows, and other compliance timelines are calculated from the registration date. Verifying this date helps you confirm how long the entity has been operating under Florida law.

Entity Status

The entity status field shows the current standing of the business with the state, such as active, inactive, dissolved, revoked, forfeited, or reinstated. Active status means the entity is authorized to conduct business in Florida and has met its recent filing obligations. Inactive, dissolved, or revoked statuses indicate the entity has lost or surrendered its authority to operate. Reviewing the status helps you gauge whether the business is a viable partner, vendor, or borrower.

State of Formation

The state of formation is the state or jurisdiction under whose laws the entity was originally formed. For Florida-formed entities, this field shows “FL.” For foreign entities, the field shows the home state or country. Sunbiz displays the state of formation prominently on the detail page, helping you distinguish domestic entities from out-of-state registrations. This field also helps you determine which state’s statutes govern the entity’s internal affairs.

Registration Number

The registration number, also called the document number, is the unique identifier Florida assigns to each entity at formation. This number stays with the entity throughout its life and appears on every subsequent filing, certificate, and annual report. Searching by registration number returns the exact record instantly without sorting through similar names. The registration number is the most reliable way to track a specific entity across many filings.

Foreign Entity Registration

Foreign entities that wish to transact business in Florida must register with the Division of Corporations by filing an Application by Foreign Entity for Authorization. This registration adds the entity to Florida’s records without changing its home state formation. The Sunbiz detail page for a foreign entity shows both the home state and the Florida registration date. Confirming foreign registration helps you verify that an out-of-state company is authorized to operate in Florida.

Business Registration Updates

Business registration updates are filed whenever material data about the entity changes, such as a new registered agent, address change, or amended governing document. Updates are submitted through amendments, annual reports, or specific change-of-status forms. The Sunbiz filing history lists each update with its effective date and document number. Reviewing the update log helps you confirm that the public record reflects the entity’s current data.

Assumed Name and DBA Records

Assumed Name and DBA Records are separate filings that let a business operate under a name other than its legal name. In Florida, these filings are made with the Division of Corporations and are searchable through the dedicated assumed name search on Sunbiz. DBA stands for “doing business as,” and assumed name filings are sometimes called fictitious business name registrations. The following sections explain how assumed names work and what records they contain.

Assumed Business Names

An assumed business name is any name a company uses in the regular course of business that is not its exact legal name. Companies register assumed names to protect brand identity, operate many brands under one entity, or meet marketing needs. Florida assumed name filings are searchable by name, owner, and county, giving you many ways to find related records. Reviewing assumed name filings helps you uncover secondary brands or marketing identities tied to a single owner.

DBA Records

DBA records are the official filings that register a “doing business as” name with the state of Florida. Each DBA record shows the assumed name, the legal name of the underlying business or individual, the principal address, and the filing date. The Sunbiz assumed name search returns these records in alphabetical order by the DBA name. Searching DBA records helps you connect a familiar trade name to its parent company or owner.

Trade Names

Trade names are names used to identify a company’s goods or services in the marketplace, often functioning similarly to assumed names. Florida businesses may register trade names through the Division of Corporations to gain public notice and exclusive use of the name within the state. Trade name filings appear in the Sunbiz assumed name index alongside DBA filings. Reviewing trade names helps you verify brand ownership and detect potential infringement.

Assumed Name Registration

Assumed name registration is the process of filing the appropriate form with the Division of Corporations to publicly declare a DBA or trade name. Florida requires registration when a business operates under any name other than its legal name, and the registration must be renewed as required by law. Each assumed name registration generates a separate filing record with its own number and date. Confirming an assumed name registration helps you verify the legal right to use a name in Florida.

Assumed Name Owners

The owner of an assumed name is the individual, partnership, corporation, or LLC that has filed the registration. Sunbiz lists the owner’s legal name and address on each assumed name record, making it easy to identify the parent entity. This data helps you determine who is responsible for the business operating under the assumed name. Reviewing the owner field also helps you link many assumed names back to the same individual or company.

Assumed Name Status

Each assumed name filing has its own status, such as active, expired, or cancelled. Active status means the registration is currently in effect and the name is protected for the owner’s use. Expired or cancelled status means the registration is no longer valid, and the name may be available for others to claim. Checking assumed name status helps you confirm whether a name is currently in use and protected.

Business Filing Records

Business Filing Records are the collection of documents an entity submits to the Florida Division of Corporations throughout its life. These filings include formation documents, amendments, annual reports, statements of information, mergers, dissolutions, and reinstatements. The Sunbiz detail page lists each filing in chronological order with the filing date, document number, and a brief description. Reviewing these records gives you a complete picture of the entity’s compliance history. The table below summarizes the most common filing types you will encounter.

Formation Documents

Formation documents are the foundational filings that create the entity, including Articles of Incorporation for corporations and Articles of Organization for LLCs. These documents set out the entity’s name, purpose, registered agent, principal address, and initial governance structure. Sunbiz stores the original formation document and assigns it the first document number in the entity’s filing history. Reviewing formation documents helps you confirm the legal basis of the entity and the names of its original organizers.

Amendments

Amendments are filings that change the data in the original formation documents, such as the entity name, principal address, purpose, or authorized shares. Florida requires entities to file amendments whenever material data changes, ensuring the public record remains accurate. Each amendment appears in the filing history with its own document number and effective date. Reviewing amendments helps you track how the entity has evolved since its formation.

Annual Reports

Annual reports are yearly filings that update the Division of Corporations on the entity’s current officers, directors, members, managers, and addresses. Florida requires most entities to file an annual report

to remain in active status, and failure to file can result in administrative dissolution or revocation. The Sunbiz detail page lists each annual report by year, allowing you to verify timely compliance. Reviewing annual reports helps you confirm the entity’s good standing and current leadership.

Statements of Information

Statements of information are filings that disclose specific data about the entity, such as a change in registered agent or a notice of merger. These filings keep the state’s records aligned with the entity’s actual operations and governance. Sunbiz lists each statement with its filing date and document number, allowing you to track discrete changes. Reviewing statements of information helps you verify that recent events, such as mergers, are properly reflected in the public record.

Mergers and Conversions

Mergers occur when two or more entities combine into one surviving entity. Conversions occur when an entity changes its legal structure, such as an LLC converting to a corporation. Both events require filings with the Division of Corporations, and the resulting records show the surviving entity’s new details. The Sunbiz filing history lists the merger or conversion document, along with any related amendments. Reviewing these filings helps you understand major structural changes in the entity’s history.

Dissolution Records

Dissolution records are filings that terminate the entity’s legal existence in Florida, either voluntarily by the owners or involuntarily by the state for failure to file required documents. Voluntary dissolutions require a formal filing by the entity’s officers or members. Administrative dissolutions result from non-compliance with state requirements. Sunbiz displays the dissolution filing with its effective date and reason code. Reviewing dissolution records helps you confirm that an entity has formally ended its operations.

Reinstatement Records

Reinstatement records are filings that restore an entity to active status after an administrative dissolution or revocation. To reinstate, the entity must file the necessary paperwork, pay any back fees or penalties, and resolve any outstanding compliance issues. Sunbiz lists the reinstatement filing with its effective date, marking the entity’s return to good standing. Reviewing reinstatement records helps you confirm that an entity is currently authorized to operate.

Business Status and History

Business Status and History track the entity’s standing with the Florida Division of Corporations from formation through the present day. The status field on the Sunbiz detail page shows the current standing, while the status history section shows every prior status with its effective date. Reviewing this history helps you understand the entity’s compliance record and identify any lapses in good standing. The following sections explain each status category and what it means.

• Active: the entity is authorized to conduct business in Florida.
• Inactive: the entity has stopped operating but has not formally dissolved.
• Dissolved: the entity has filed or received a formal termination of its status.
• Revoked or forfeited: the entity lost its authority for compliance failures.
• Reinstated: the entity has been restored to active status after a lapse.

Active Businesses

An active business is one that is currently registered with the Division of Corporations and authorized to transact business in Florida. Active entities are up to date on their annual reports and other required filings, and they maintain a current registered agent. The Sunbiz status field shows “Active” in green or highlighted text on the detail page. Confirming active status is a key step before entering into contracts, extending credit, or forming partnerships.

Inactive Businesses

An inactive business is one that has stopped operating but has not formally dissolved, the owners may intend to resume operations later. Inactive status may result from failing to file annual reports or from voluntarily ceasing business activities. The Sunbiz status field shows “Inactive,” and the entity loses its authority to conduct new business in Florida. Reviewing inactive status helps you confirm that the entity is not currently authorized to operate.

Dissolved Businesses

A dissolved business is one that has filed a formal dissolution document or has been administratively dissolved by the state. Voluntary dissolutions follow a vote by the owners and a filed document. Administrative dissolutions result from non-compliance with state requirements. The Sunbiz status field shows “Dissolved,” and the entity’s authority to operate is terminated. Checking for dissolution status helps you confirm the entity has formally ended its operations.

Revoked or Forfeited Entities

Revoked or forfeited entities have lost their authority to operate due to specific compliance failures, such as failing to maintain a registered agent or pay required fees. The Sunbiz status field shows “Revoked” or “Forfeited,” and the entity cannot legally transact business in Florida until it is reinstated. These statuses signal serious compliance issues that may require corrective filings. Reviewing revocation status helps you identify entities that need reinstatement before conducting business.

Reinstated Businesses

A reinstated business is one that was previously inactive, dissolved, or revoked but has filed the necessary paperwork to restore its active status. Reinstatement requires filing the appropriate forms, paying back fees, and updating required data. The Sunbiz status field shows “Active” again, and the status history records the reinstatement date. Confirming reinstatement helps you verify that the entity is once again authorized to operate.

Business Status History

Business status history is the chronological list of every status change the entity has experienced since its formation. This history appears on the Sunbiz detail page under the status section, with each transition dated and described. Reviewing the status history helps you identify patterns of non-compliance, gaps in good standing, or frequent administrative actions. A clean status history signals consistent compliance, frequent changes may warrant further investigation.

Business Address and Contact Data

Business Address and Contact Data identifies where the entity is located and how to reach it for official correspondence. Sunbiz displays several address fields on the detail page, including the principal office, mailing address, registered office, and registered agent address. Reviewing these fields helps you confirm the company’s physical location and identify the proper channels for legal service. The following sections describe each address type in detail.

Principal Office Address

The principal office address is the main physical location where the entity conducts its business operations. This address appears on the Sunbiz detail page and may match the company’s website or storefront. Confirming the principal office helps you verify that the entity operates from the location it advertises. Address changes are recorded in the filing history, showing the date of each transition.

Mailing Address

The mailing address is the location where the entity receives general correspondence, which may differ from the principal office if the company uses a P.O. Box or centralized mail service. Sunbiz lists the mailing address separately from the principal address on the detail page. Reviewing the mailing address helps you determine where to send routine business communications. Updates to the mailing address are filed through annual reports or amendments.

Registered Office

The registered office is the official street address in Florida where the entity’s registered agent accepts service of process and legal notices. Florida law requires the registered office to be a physical street address, not a P.O. Box, and to be located within the state. Sunbiz lists the registered office address under the registered agent section. Confirming the registered office is essential for serving legal documents properly.

Business Location

The business location is the physical place where the entity operates, which may be the same as or different from the principal office. Companies with many branches may list only the headquarters as the principal location. They may operate elsewhere without updating the Sunbiz record. The Sunbiz detail page shows the registered location for service of process and the principal business location. Reviewing both helps you understand the entity’s physical footprint.

Contact Data

Contact data on Sunbiz includes the registered agent’s name, address, and any listed phone or email data included on filings. The portal does not always display direct phone numbers or email addresses, so contact often goes through the registered agent. Reviewing the contact data helps you identify the appropriate party to reach for service of process, official notices, or compliance questions. For general business inquiries, you may need to consult the company’s website or marketing materials.

Address Changes

Address changes occur when an entity updates its principal address, mailing address, or registered office. Florida requires entities to report these changes through amendments or annual reports, ensuring the public record stays current. Sunbiz lists each address change in the filing history with its effective date. Reviewing address changes helps you track the entity’s movements and verify whether the current address matches prior records.

Business Records and Public Access

Business Records and Public Access describe how Florida makes entity data available to the public and what limits apply to certain records. Sunbiz serves as the primary portal for accessing these records, and most filings are available online at no cost. Some records require formal requests, fees, or certification. The following sections explain the categories of access and the records available through each channel.

Publicly Available Business Records

Most Business Records are publicly available, including the entity name, document number, status, formation date, registered agent, principal address, and filing history. This data is accessible to anyone with internet access through the Sunbiz portal, with no account or login required. Public access supports transparency, due diligence, and consumer protection. Reviewing publicly available records helps you verify a company without paying any fees.

Online Business Records

Online Business Records are accessible through the Sunbiz portal at any time of day, with results updated regularly as new filings are processed. You can search by name, owner, address, registered agent, and document number, and you can view filing images directly in your browser. Online access is free for basic searches, while certified copies and bulk data may carry a fee. Reviewing online records helps you perform quick due diligence from anywhere.

Public Filing Documents

Public filing documents are the actual images of the documents submitted to the Division of Corporations, including formation papers, amendments, annual reports, and dissolutions. Sunbiz stores these images and displays them when you click on a filing entry in the history list. Each document is identified by its document number and shows the filer’s signature and the official filing date. Reviewing filing images helps you confirm the contents of each filing.

Records Available by Request

Some records are not displayed online and must be requested directly from the Division of Corporations, including older filings predating the digital archive and certain certified copies. Requests can be submitted in person, by mail, or through the Division’s online services portal, and fees apply for copies and certifications. Records available by request also include documents removed or redacted under specific statutory exemptions. Submitting a request helps you obtain records not surfaced through the standard search.

Restricted Business Data

Restricted Business Data refers to details that are not available to the general public, such as Social Security numbers, tax ID numbers, and the personal addresses of certain officers. Sunbiz redacts sensitive data before displaying filings to protect privacy. Restricted data is available only to authorized parties, such as the entity itself, law enforcement, or parties with a court order. Confirming what is restricted helps you know which details you cannot access online.

Certified Business Records

Certified Business Records are official copies of filings bearing the Division of Corporations’ seal and signature, used for legal proceedings, banking, and licensing. Certified copies carry a fee and can be ordered online, by mail, or in person from the Division. They carry more weight than standard printouts, they are authenticated by the state. Ordering certified records helps you meet evidentiary requirements for litigation or compliance.

Search Problems

Business Record Search Problems sometimes arise when users cannot find a record, encounter duplicates, or see outdated records. These issues usually have simple explanations, such as a recent formation, a name change, or a data lag in the portal. Knowing common problems helps you resolve search frustrations quickly. The following sections explain the most frequent issues and how to address them, along with a quick-reference list of common search problems.

• Business not found.
• Similar business names.
• Incorrect or outdated business data.
• Recently formed businesses not yet indexed.
• Recently dissolved businesses with pending updates.
• Missing filing records for older filings.

Business Not Found

A “Business Not Found” result usually means the entity is not registered in Florida, the name is spelled incorrectly, or the filing has not yet been processed. Try other spellings, partial keywords, or the entity’s document number to confirm whether the record exists. If the entity was recently formed, the filing may still be in the Division’s processing queue. Resolving a not-found result often requires patience or a broader search strategy.

Similar Business Names

Similar business names are common in Florida, especially for common terms or popular industries. Sunbiz returns all entities whose names contain your search keyword, which can produce long lists. Use filters for entity type, status, or jurisdiction to narrow the list and find the correct record. Reviewing similar names also helps you spot potential trademark conflicts or look-alike entities operating under related names.

Incorrect Business Data

Incorrect business data may appear if a filing contained errors or if the entity has not updated its records. Sunbiz displays the data exactly as filed, so you should review the original documents to confirm details. If you spot an error, contact the entity directly to request a correction or contact the Division of Corporations for guidance. Correcting public records typically requires a formal amendment filing by the entity.

Outdated Business Records

Outdated business records may appear if the entity has not filed a recent annual report or amendment, leaving older data on the public record. Sunbiz updates records as new filings are processed, some delays are normal. Reviewing the filing history date helps you determine how current the displayed data is. Requesting a recent filing or contacting the entity directly can clarify whether the outdated data has been updated.

Recently Formed Businesses

Recently formed businesses may not appear immediately in search results, the Division processes filings in the order received. Standard processing times range from a few business days to several weeks, depending on volume and filing method. If your search returns no results for a recent filing, wait a few days and try again. Online filings typically process faster than paper filings, which can affect when records become searchable.

Recently Dissolved Businesses

Recently dissolved businesses still appear in Sunbiz with a “Dissolved” status, the record may not appear in standard status filters set to “Active” only. Switch your search filter to show all statuses, or search by document number to confirm whether the entity has been dissolved. Reviewing the dissolution date helps you confirm the entity’s final status. Recently dissolved entities may also have pending reinstatement filings that will update the status.

Missing Filing Records

Missing filing records sometimes occur, the filing predates the digital archive or has been archived offline. Older documents from the 1990s or earlier may not have images available online. To obtain these records, submit a records request to the Division of Corporations with the document number or filing date. The Division can provide copies of older filings for a small fee, helping you complete your research.

Business Records and Related Searches

Business Records often overlap with other public record categories, and knowing the differences helps you know where to look for specific data. Sunbiz covers entity filings, other searches address trademarks, UCC liens, property records, and background checks. The following sections explain how Business Records relate to these adjacent searches and when each is the right resource.

Business Records vs. Business Search

Business Records refers to the official filings stored by the Division of Corporations, while Business Search refers to the act of querying those records through Sunbiz. The records are the data; the search is the tool you use to access them. Both terms are often used interchangeably, they describe different parts of the same system. Using both together helps you locate and review the filings you need.

Business Records vs. Assumed Name Records

Business Records cover the entity itself, while assumed name records cover secondary names used by the entity. A single company can have many assumed name filings only one Business Record. Searching both indexes helps you link a DBA or trade name back to its parent company. Reviewing assumed name records also helps you identify related brands or marketing names tied to a single owner.

Business Records vs. UCC Records

Business Records show the entity’s formation and governance. UCC records show liens and financing statements filed against the entity’s assets. UCC searches are handled by the Florida Secured Transaction Registry, a separate system from Sunbiz. Reviewing both helps you assess the entity’s legal standing and financial obligations. Lenders often review UCC filings alongside Business Records to evaluate risk.

Business Records vs. Property Records

Business Records identify the entity and its officers. Property records identify real estate owned by the entity or its principals. Property searches are handled by county recorder offices, not the Division of Corporations. Linking the two requires cross-referencing the entity’s name or tax ID with county appraisal records. Reviewing both helps you identify assets tied to the business.

Business Records vs. Public Records

Business Records are a subset of public records, which also include court filings, marriage records, and criminal histories. Public records describe any government-maintained data open to the public, while Business Records focus specifically on entity filings. Sunbiz serves only the Business Records portion of this broader category. Using both public records and Business Records helps you build a full profile of an entity.

Business Records vs. Background Checks

Business Records identify the company and its officers. Background checks focus on personal histories of individuals. A background check may pull Business Records to confirm someone’s role in a company, it covers other data sources as well. Reviewing Business Records helps you confirm corporate affiliations. Background checks provide personal context. Using both together supports thorough due diligence on company leadership.

Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz)

Tallahassee, FL

Phone: (850) 245-6052

Office Hours: Verify with the Division of Corporations

Official Website / Search Portal: https://search.sunbiz.org/

Note: Florida statewide business/entity records; not a Lee County-only database.

Frequently Asked Questions

Florida business records give you quick access to official filing data for any entity registered in the state. Use the Sunbiz portal to verify a company’s status, locate owners, and retrieve key documents such as articles of incorporation or annual reports. Accurate records help investors, lenders, and consumers confirm legitimacy before making decisions.

How can I search business records by name on Sunbiz?

Visit the Sunbiz search page and enter the exact or partial business name in the “Entity Name” field. Click Search. The results list matching entities, their filing numbers, and current status. Select a record to view details like formation date, registered agent, and document links. This step‑by‑step view lets you confirm whether the company is active or dissolved.

What steps let me find a business owner or manager in Florida?

After locating the entity record, scroll to the “Principal Officers” section. Names, titles, and mailing addresses appear there. For LLCs, the “Members/Managers” line shows who controls the company. Record the listed names for further contact or background checks. This information updates whenever the filing office receives a new statement of information.

How do I look up a business using its filing or registration number?

Enter the number in the “Document Number” box on the Sunbiz search page. The system returns the exact filing linked to that identifier. You can view the original document, see any amendments, and check the entity’s current status. Using the registration number avoids confusion when multiple businesses share similar names.

Can I verify a company’s active status and see its latest annual report?

Yes. Open the entity’s detail page and find the “Status” line—active, inactive, or dissolved. Below, a list of filed documents shows the most recent annual report. Click the report link to download a PDF that includes the filing date, registered agent, and any changes to the company’s address or officers. This quick check confirms whether the business can legally operate.

What if I need to find the registered agent for a Florida corporation?

After searching the entity name, locate the “Registered Agent” field on the record page. It displays the agent’s name, business address, and sometimes a phone number. Use this address to send legal notices or verify that the agent’s information matches the one on file with the state. If the agent field is blank, the filing may be outdated and requires a follow‑up with the Division of Corporations.