How to search Idaho business entities online
Official Resource
Idaho Official SOS WebsiteIdaho's business entity search is at sosbiz.idaho.gov/search/business, part of the SOSBiz portal operated by the Idaho Secretary of State. The older URL path at sos.idaho.gov/business-services-2/ no longer shows business-services content — it now returns a generic site-search page. The current system is at sosbiz.idaho.gov. All public record information is viewable without an account; a free SOSBiz account is required only to file documents.
Updated August 2026
Certificate of Existence scam warning
The Idaho Secretary of State and Attorney General have previously issued public warnings about third-party mailers that charge inflated fees for Certificates of Existence, sometimes implying the certificate is required to operate — it is not. Idaho businesses are not required to obtain or display a Certificate of Existence. If you do need one for a legitimate purpose (a bank, lender, or contracting partner may ask), request it directly through the SOSBiz portal for $10, or call the Business Services Division at (208) 334-2301. Don't pay a third party for this document.
What the search covers
The database covers all Idaho business entities: domestic and foreign corporations (profit and nonprofit), LLCs, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, general partnerships, assumed business names (ABNs), and statutory trusts. Trademarks and UCC/lien records appear in separate search tabs within the same portal.
How to search
The default search uses a "starts with" name match — type the first few words of the business name. A file number entered in the search field returns a single, precise record. An Advanced search mode allows filtering by entity type, status, and other criteria. Selecting an entity from results opens a panel displaying governors (officers, directors, members, or managers depending on entity type), registered agent name and address, mailing address, and a complete filing history.
Processing times
Standard filing processing times vary with filing volume, so there's no fixed number of days to rely on. Expedited service is available for some filing types and is typically processed within 8 business hours. Same-day service is available if the filing is received by 1 p.m. Mountain Time; requests received after that may not be processed until the next business day. Online filings through SOSBiz tend to post faster than paper submissions.
This guide is informational only and is not affiliated with the Idaho Secretary of State's office. Verify current procedures at the official state website. Last verified: August 2026.