Business Services

Highlighted Services

Apostilles and Authentication Services

An Apostille or an Authentication certifies the authenticity of the signature, seal and position of...

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Business Information Search

Business Information Search

Search by business name or Secretary of State Control Number in order to file annual reports and other amendments or to view the business detail.
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File an Annual Report

File an Annual Report

File or prepare an Annual Report for a business entity registered in the State of Tennessee.
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Form or Register a new Business

File documents to form or register a new business with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
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Online Business Services

Form or register a new business entity, find and update business records, request a certificate of existence, or file an annual report.
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Request for Certificate of Existence or Authorization

Request, pay for, receive, and/or verify a Certificate of Existence online.
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Uniform Commercial Code

UCC Online Services

File UCC financing statements and access the UCC database.
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Workers' Compensation Exemption Registry

Workers' Compensation Exemption Registry Online Services

List of Workers' Compensation Exemption Online Processes.
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Business Services Videos

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How-To: File an Annual Report – For Profit Corporation

This video demonstrates how to file an annual report for a for profit corporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State Division of Business Services.

How-To: File an Annual Report – LLC

This video demonstrates how to file an annual report for an LLC, or Limited Liability Company, with the Tennessee Secretary of State Division of Business Services.

How-To: File an Annual Report – LLP

This video demonstrates how to file an annual report for an LLP, or Limited Liability Partnership, with the Tennessee Secretary of State Division of Business Services.

How-To: File an Annual Report – Nonprofit Corporation

This video demonstrates how to file an annual report for a nonprofit corporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State Division of Business Services.

How-To: Use the Business Information Search

This video demonstrates how to use the Business Information Search tool from the Tennessee Secretary of State Division of Business Services.

Secretary Hargett, Better Business Bureau Warn Against Familiar Scam

A familiar scam that continues to target Tennessee businesses is now in the spotlight of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Middle Tennessee.
image for The Tennessee Quarterly Business and Economic Indicators Report
Third Quarter 2020 Economic Indicators Report Shows Signs of Economic Recovery
Even though economic activity is still below pre-pandemic peak levels, a report from Secretary of State Tre Hargett’s office shows signs of economic recovery.
Press Release
Tennessee’s Economy Continues Significant Growth
Tennessee’s economy continues to show significant growth in 2018, according to a report released Monday by the Secretary of State’s office.
Press Release
Be Vigilant When Responding to Mail Appearing to be From a Government Official
Secretary Hargett Urges Businesses to be Vigilant When Responding to Mail Appearing to be From a Government Official.
Tennessee Quarterly Business and Economic Indicators Chart
Tennessee’s Business Filings Show Continued Growth
Initial business filings continue year-over-year growth and don’t show any signs of slowing down, according to a reported released Tuesday by Secretary of State Tre Hargett’s office.
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About Business Services

The Division of Business Services is where a variety of documents required for starting and maintaining business operations in Tennessee are filed. Business Services also handles filings for:

  • Uniform Commercial Code
  • Motor Vehicle Temporary Liens
  • Trademarks
  • Apostille and Authentication Services

The Business Services Division assists approximately 9,500 persons monthly, processing on average 46,875 documents per month.

Additionally, Business Services maintains certain business information on its searchable databases. Some of this information includes: business name, principal office address, registered agent, and business status. Its databases are most often used by businesses, citizens and the law enforcement community. Additional databases are available for

  • Business Information
  • Search Business
  • Name Availability
  • Motor Vehicle Temporary Liens
  • Notary Commissions
  • Nonresident Fiduciaries
  • Summons/Service of Process
  • Trademarks
  • Uniform Commercial Code

Documents may be filed by mail, in person, and others are available to be filed online.

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