In the United states, an LLC is formed by registering it with a particular state, not with the federal government. Needless to say, with 50 states, this can make it difficult to track down an LLC. Most states provide some sort of online search tool to locate corporations, but their websites vary in quality and functionality. Instead of searching the web and navigating government websites, it’s usually easier to use an online corporation search directory like SecStates to quickly find the right place.

In terms of what information is available, it depends on the state. Most states will at least show the name, address, and status (good standing, defunct, etc.) of the LLC or corporation in the results. Likewise, almost every state provides this information for free, but there are one or two that will try to squeeze money out of you, so just be aware!