How to Find a Florida Corporation on Sunbiz (Official Lookup Guide)

How to Find a Florida Corporation on Sunbiz (Official Lookup Guide)

If you need to find a Florida corporation, verify whether a business is legitimate, or review official company records, Sunbiz.org is the only source you should rely on. Operated by the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, Sunbiz is the official public registry for corporations, LLCs, partnerships, nonprofits, and other registered business entities in Florida.

Whether you are a business owner checking name availability, a buyer performing due diligence, an investor validating ownership, or a consumer confirming legitimacy, understanding how to properly search and interpret Sunbiz records is essential. This guide explains how to find a Florida corporation on Sunbiz, how to read the results correctly, and how to avoid common mistakes.

To begin immediately, you can access the official database here:
Search Florida corporations on Sunbiz

What Is Sunbiz and Why It’s the Official Source

Sunbiz.org is the public-facing database of the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations. By law, every corporation, LLC, partnership, and nonprofit doing business in Florida must file formation documents and ongoing updates through this system.

Sunbiz is considered the authoritative source for Florida business records because it is:

• Operated and maintained by the State of Florida
• Updated as filings are processed
• Required for legal business compliance
• Free and publicly accessible
• Used by courts, lenders, and regulators

Unlike third-party business lookup websites, Sunbiz information comes directly from legally filed documents, not estimates or scraped data. For this reason, it should always be the starting point when verifying a Florida business.

If you want a broader explanation of how entity searches work across different business structures, review our guide on Florida business entity searches explained.

Who Uses Sunbiz to Find Florida Corporations

Sunbiz serves a wide range of users, including:

• Business owners checking name availability or researching competitors
• Buyers and investors conducting due diligence
• Consumers verifying contractors or service providers
• Attorneys and business brokers confirming legal standing
• Banks and lenders validating entity status

In every case, Sunbiz provides the legal foundation for determining whether a business exists and whether it is compliant in Florida.

Step-by-Step: How to Find a Florida Corporation on Sunbiz

This is the core process most users are searching for when they want to find a Florida corporation.

Step 1: Access the Official Sunbiz Search Page

Start by visiting the official Sunbiz search portal.
From there, select Search Records, then choose Corporation / LLC Search.

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Search Method

Sunbiz offers multiple search options, including:

• Search by entity name
• Search by officer or registered agent
• Search by document number

If you only know the business name, the entity name search is the most effective starting point.

Step 3: Enter the Business Name Correctly

To improve your chances of finding the correct entity:

• Use partial names if you are unsure of spelling
• Avoid punctuation and suffixes such as Inc. or LLC initially
• Try multiple variations if no results appear

For example, instead of entering “Orlando Premier Roofing Inc,” try searching for Orlando Premier Roofing. This approach helps surface similar or closely related entity names.

Step 4: Review the Search Results

Search results typically display:

• Legal entity name
• Document number
• Status (Active, Inactive, or Dissolved)
• Date of formation

Click the exact business name to open the full record.

Step 5: Open and Review the Business Record

The detailed business record contains critical verification information, including:

• Legal name of the entity
• Principal and mailing addresses
• Registered agent information
• Officers, directors, or managers
• Filing history and annual reports

This information allows you to confirm whether the business is properly registered and currently compliant.

How to Read a Florida Corporation Record on Sunbiz

Finding the business record is only the first step. Understanding the information correctly is equally important.

Entity Status

The entity status indicates whether a business is legally allowed to operate in Florida.

Common statuses include:

• Active – In good standing
• Inactive – Not currently compliant
• Administratively Dissolved – Lost good standing due to noncompliance
• Revoked – Foreign entity no longer authorized to operate

To understand what each status means and how it affects your ability to do business with a company, review how to check if a Florida business is active or dissolved.

Registered Agent Information

Every Florida corporation must list a registered agent who receives legal notices and official correspondence on behalf of the business.

Sunbiz displays:

• Registered agent name
• Registered office address
• Filing history related to agent changes

To learn why registered agents matter and how agent changes affect compliance, see Florida registered agent requirements explained.

Officers, Directors, or Managers

This section identifies the individuals responsible for managing or controlling the company. Depending on the entity type, it may include:

• Officers such as President or CEO
• Directors
• Managers or members

This information is particularly important for buyers, investors, and legal verification. Frequent changes or inconsistencies may warrant further investigation.

Annual Reports and Filing History

Sunbiz provides access to annual reports and amendment filings submitted by the business. These records help you determine whether the company is maintaining compliance.

You can:

• Confirm annual reports are current
• Review historical changes
• Download official filing documents

For deadlines, penalties, and reinstatement rules, refer to Florida annual report requirements explained.

Document Images

Most filings are available as downloadable PDFs, including:

• Articles of incorporation
• Amendments
• Annual reports

These documents provide legal proof of the company’s structure and filing history.

Common Problems When Searching Sunbiz

Even experienced users can encounter issues when searching Sunbiz.

Similar or Nearly Identical Business Names

Florida allows businesses to register names that are legally distinguishable but visually similar. Always verify the document number, address, and officers to ensure you are reviewing the correct entity.

Inactive or Dissolved Entities

A business may appear in search results but no longer be authorized to operate. Always confirm the current status before entering into contracts or financial agreements.

DBA or Fictitious Name Confusion

Many businesses operate under brand names that differ from their legal entity names. If a business does not appear in search results, try searching the legal name or reviewing fictitious name registrations.

Foreign Entities Not Registered in Florida

Businesses formed outside Florida must register to operate in the state. If they have not done so, they will not appear in Sunbiz, which can be a warning sign.

Spelling and Formatting Errors

Sunbiz searches are sensitive to spelling. Using partial matches often resolves this issue.

Advanced Sunbiz Search Options (Overview Only)

Sunbiz also allows users to:

• Search by officer or registered agent
• Search by document number
• Search fictitious names

These tools are useful for deeper research and ownership tracing but are best used after completing a basic entity search.

Advanced Sunbiz Search Use Cases

Once you understand how to find a Florida corporation by name, Sunbiz provides additional search tools that are useful when information is limited or when deeper verification is required. These tools help uncover ownership connections, confirm identities, and reduce the risk of relying on incomplete data.

Searching by Officer or Registered Agent

If you know the name of a person associated with a business, Sunbiz allows you to search by officer or registered agent name. This search returns all Florida entities connected to that individual.

This method is commonly used by:

• Buyers conducting ownership due diligence
• Attorneys identifying controlling parties
• Investors evaluating patterns across multiple entities
• Consumers verifying whether a business owner operates under multiple companies

This search can also reveal potential red flags, such as individuals associated with multiple inactive or dissolved entities.

To better understand the legal role and responsibilities of registered agents, review Florida registered agent requirements explained.

Searching by Document Number

Every Florida business entity is assigned a unique document number at formation. If you already have this number from a contract, invoice, filing, or prior correspondence, searching by document number is the most precise method available.

This search method is ideal when:

• Business names are very similar
• The entity has changed its name
• Multiple companies operate under related branding

A document number search returns an exact match and eliminates ambiguity.

Fictitious Name (DBA) Searches

Many Florida corporations operate under a fictitious name, commonly referred to as a DBA (“doing business as”). Sunbiz maintains a separate registry for fictitious name filings.

Fictitious name searches are especially useful when:

• A business advertises under a brand name
• Contracts reference a name that does not appear in entity searches
• A service provider uses multiple brand identities

If a business cannot be found by its advertised name, checking fictitious name records often provides clarity and helps connect the brand to its legal entity.

Understanding Compliance Signals in Sunbiz Records

Sunbiz records provide more than basic identification. They also offer valuable insight into how well a business maintains compliance with Florida requirements.

Annual Reports as a Compliance Indicator

Florida corporations and LLCs are required to file annual reports to remain in good standing. Reviewing a company’s filing history helps you evaluate its operational consistency.

Consistent, on-time annual filings often indicate:

• Ongoing business operations
• Attention to regulatory requirements
• Lower administrative risk

Missed filings, late submissions, or reinstatements after dissolution may signal financial distress, neglect, or management issues.

For a detailed explanation of filing deadlines, late penalties, and reinstatement rules, see Florida annual report deadlines and compliance explained.

Status Changes and Potential Red Flags

Status changes visible in Sunbiz records can reveal important history about a business. Examples include:

• Administrative dissolution followed by reinstatement
• Frequent changes in officers or managers
• Repeated registered agent changes

While not always problematic, these patterns warrant closer review, especially for buyers, investors, or anyone entering into a contractual relationship.

To understand how status changes affect a company’s legal standing, refer to how to check if a Florida business is active or dissolved.

When Sunbiz Is Enough — and When It’s Not

Sunbiz is the best starting point for verifying Florida businesses, but it does not provide a complete risk profile. Understanding its limitations helps you avoid false assumptions.

What Sunbiz Confirms Reliably

Sunbiz is effective for confirming:

• Legal existence of a business
• Entity type and formation date
• Current status and compliance standing
• Registered agent and officer information
• Filing and amendment history

For many routine checks, this information is sufficient.

What Sunbiz Does Not Show

Sunbiz does not provide information about:

• Lawsuits or litigation history
• Liens, judgments, or bankruptcies
• Business credit or financial performance
• Licensing status for regulated industries

If you are buying a business, investing, or entering a significant contract, relying solely on Sunbiz may leave important risks undiscovered.

When Deeper Verification Is Necessary

Additional verification is recommended when:

• Purchasing or investing in a business
• Entering long-term contracts
• Extending credit or financing
• Evaluating partnerships or acquisitions

In these situations, Sunbiz should be combined with court record searches, financial review, and professional due diligence.

Common Verification Mistakes to Avoid

Even when users access Sunbiz, mistakes can still occur.

Assuming “Active” Means Risk-Free

An active status only confirms compliance with filing requirements. It does not guarantee financial stability or ethical operations.

Failing to Review Filing History

Looking only at the current status without reviewing past filings may cause you to miss dissolutions, reinstatements, or ownership changes.

Ignoring Name Variations

Businesses may operate under names that differ from their legal entities. Always confirm document numbers and registered details.

Skipping Officer and Agent Review

Officer and registered agent information often provides valuable clues about control, continuity, and potential risk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sunbiz Searches

Is Sunbiz the official source for Florida corporation searches?

Yes. Sunbiz is operated by the Florida Department of State and is the official, legally authoritative database for Florida business entities.

Is it free to search Sunbiz?

Yes. All basic searches and most document downloads are available at no cost.

How often is Sunbiz updated?

Sunbiz updates records as filings are processed. While not every filing appears instantly, updates generally occur quickly.

Can I download official documents from Sunbiz?

Yes. Most filings, including annual reports and formation documents, are available as downloadable PDFs.

Does Sunbiz show whether a business is licensed?

No. Licensing information is handled by separate state and local agencies and must be verified independently.

Best Practices for Verifying a Florida Corporation Using Sunbiz

Using Sunbiz correctly is not just about locating a business name. It is about confirming accuracy, consistency, and compliance before you rely on the information for legal, financial, or business decisions.

Always Cross-Check Core Details

When reviewing a Florida corporation record, confirm that the following details align across documents:

• Legal entity name
• Document number
• Principal office address
• Registered agent information
• Officer or manager listings

Discrepancies between filings, addresses, or officer names may indicate outdated records or administrative issues that warrant further review.

Review Filing History, Not Just Current Status

A business may appear active today but may have experienced prior dissolutions or reinstatements. Reviewing historical filings helps you understand how consistently the company has maintained compliance.

If you need clarity on how status history affects legality, reference how to check if a Florida business is active or dissolved.

Confirm Registered Agent Continuity

Frequent registered agent changes can sometimes indicate instability or attempts to avoid service of process. While not always a concern, this pattern should be reviewed in context.

For a full explanation of agent responsibilities and compliance implications, see Florida registered agent requirements explained.

Using Sunbiz for Different Scenarios

Sunbiz serves different purposes depending on who is using it. Understanding how to apply the data improves accuracy and decision-making.

For Business Owners

Business owners use Sunbiz to:

• Confirm name availability before formation
• Monitor compliance status
• Verify competitors or suppliers
• Ensure annual reports are filed correctly

Regular review helps prevent administrative dissolution and protects limited liability status.

For Buyers and Investors

Buyers and investors rely on Sunbiz to:

• Confirm legal existence before negotiations
• Validate ownership and management
• Identify red flags in filing history
• Verify reinstatements or past dissolutions

Sunbiz should always be used alongside financial, legal, and operational due diligence when evaluating an acquisition.

For Consumers

Consumers often use Sunbiz before hiring:

• Contractors
• Professional service providers
• Consultants or agencies

Confirming that a business is active and properly registered reduces the risk of fraud or unlicensed activity.

For Attorneys and Professionals

Legal and financial professionals rely on Sunbiz to:

• Confirm standing before litigation
• Identify proper parties for service
• Verify addresses and ownership
• Review amendment and merger history

Sunbiz records are frequently referenced in court filings and legal proceedings.

When to Go Beyond Sunbiz

While Sunbiz is the official registry for Florida corporations, it does not provide a complete picture of business risk.

You should go beyond Sunbiz when:

• Buying or selling a business
• Entering long-term contracts
• Extending credit or financing
• Evaluating partnerships or mergers

In these cases, Sunbiz should be paired with court record searches, licensing verification, and professional due diligence services.

For compliance-related filing behavior, review Florida annual report requirements explained as part of a broader evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Florida Corporations on Sunbiz

Is Sunbiz the only official source for Florida corporation records?

Yes. Sunbiz is operated by the Florida Department of State and is the legally authoritative source for Florida business entity records.

Does Sunbiz show who owns a business?

Sunbiz lists officers, directors, managers, or members, depending on the entity type. It does not always reflect economic ownership or shareholder percentages.

Can a business be active on Sunbiz and still have problems?

Yes. Active status only confirms filing compliance. It does not indicate financial health, litigation history, or licensing status.

How often should I check a business on Sunbiz?

Before entering contracts, making payments, extending credit, or completing transactions. Business owners should review their own records at least annually.

What if a business does not appear on Sunbiz?

It may not be registered in Florida, may be operating as a sole proprietorship, or may be using a fictitious name. In some cases, absence from Sunbiz is a warning sign.

Conclusion

Knowing how to find a Florida corporation on Sunbiz is an essential skill for business owners, buyers, investors, and consumers. Sunbiz provides the most reliable and legally authoritative information available for verifying Florida business entities.

By learning how to search effectively, interpret records accurately, and recognize compliance signals, you can reduce risk and make informed decisions. While Sunbiz is the starting point for verification, understanding its limitations ensures you know when deeper research is required.

For anyone doing business in Florida, Sunbiz remains the foundation of corporate transparency and verification.