California security agreement UCC filing - debtor name matching requirements

This is exactly right. I learned this the hard way last year when a filing got rejected for a similar comma issue. California SOS automated system is really picky about punctuation.

But what if the security agreement itself has the comma version? Could that create issues down the line if there's ever a dispute about whether the UCC properly covers the collateral?

Good point about the lien searches. That's really what perfection is all about - making sure other creditors can find your filing when they search.

Did you have to amend your security agreement after filing, or did you just leave the discrepancy?

Left the security agreement as-is. The UCC filing is what creates the public notice for perfection purposes. As long as it clearly identifies the same debtor and collateral, minor name formatting differences between the security agreement and UCC shouldn't matter.

Never heard of that tool but sounds useful. Does it check against the actual SOS database or just compare your documents?

It does document-to-document comparison to catch inconsistencies, which is super valuable for avoiding filing errors. For SOS database checking you'd still need to verify manually, but having your docs consistent is the first step.

Same boat here! Filed my first UCC last month and spent hours triple-checking every detail. The rejection notices make it sound like one small error could invalidate everything.

The system is strict but it's designed that way for good reason. Better to have clear rules than ambiguity when it comes to secured transactions. Just follow the SOS database exactly and you'll be fine.

Agreed on the portal being decent. Though I still get nervous every time I hit submit on a filing worth hundreds of thousands in collateral value.

The search function is key. I always do multiple searches with different variations to make sure I'm seeing the most current info.

Good practice. Also worth noting that if the LLC was recently formed or amended, there might be a delay in the database updates. Always check the filing date on any records you find.

Because then you get into subjective territory about what constitutes a 'minor' variation. Is a comma minor? What about a hyphen vs space? Better to have strict rules that everyone can follow consistently.

Other states do allow some flexibility but then you get inconsistent results. California's approach is frustrating but at least it's predictable.

15 years of experience definitely trumps my 6 months! Thanks for the guidance. Filing with the SOS version it is.

What about situations where the SOS database shows multiple name variations for the same entity? I've seen that happen with companies that have filed amendments.

Use the most current name from the most recent filing. The SOS database usually shows the filing history so you can see when names were changed. Always go with current official name.

Great outcome! Always good to hear when these threads actually help someone avoid filing problems.

Certana keeps coming up in these discussions. Might be worth checking out for our next filing batch.

Texas is way more lenient than California on most filing requirements. Different states, different rules unfortunately.

Calling the SOS is good advice but expect to be on hold for a while. Their phone support is limited.

Smart approach. Documentation is key for compliance audits too. Regulators want to see you followed proper procedures.

I do the same thing - always screenshot the database search results with the timestamp visible. Covers you if there are any questions later about why you used a particular name format.

Thanks everyone for all the input. Going to file with the exact SOS database name and document everything as suggested. Really appreciate the collective wisdom here!