How to find UCC filings - searching state databases effectively

This is so true! I missed a critical filing once because I searched for 'ABC Company Inc' when it was actually filed under 'ABC Company, Inc.' with the comma. Cost me hours of headache later.

Yeah the debtor name matching is brutal. Some states are more forgiving than others but you really need to try multiple variations.

Good point about serial numbers. Also check if there are any fixture filings if the equipment was permanently attached to real estate at any point.

Wait, can you actually search by serial number in most state databases? I thought that was only available in a few states.

Not all states support it but when they do it's incredibly helpful. Check the advanced search options in whatever state you're searching.

How does that work exactly? Do you still have to search each state individually?

You still search the state databases but it helps you identify all the possible debtor name variations to search for. Really cuts down on the guesswork about whether you're using the right format.

Ugh yes, database lag is real. I always call the filing office directly for high-dollar purchases to make sure there aren't any same-day filings that haven't processed yet.

That's probably overkill for most situations but yeah, if you're talking about six figures worth of equipment it's worth the extra phone call.

This happened to us! The company had been ABC Manufacturing LLC but changed to ABC Industrial Solutions LLC. The original UCC-1 was still active under the old name.

How do you find former names? Is that in the Secretary of State business entity records?

Usually yes, the business entity search will show name history. Also check any DBA filings or trade name registrations.

Minnesota is notoriously slow. Try searching during off-peak hours, like early morning or late evening.

Some states have really outdated systems. Wisconsin's database looks like it's from 1995 but at least it works reliably.

Good point. Also remember that some types of collateral like aircraft or vessels have federal filing requirements instead of state UCC filings.

For equipment purchases I usually search the state where the equipment is located, where the seller is incorporated, and where the seller's principal place of business is. Covers most scenarios.

How long do lapsed filings stay in the database? Is it the same in every state?

Varies by state but usually at least a year after expiration. Some states keep them longer for historical reference.

Is that expensive? Seems like it might be overkill for smaller equipment purchases.

I think it's worth it for anything over $50K just for the peace of mind. The tool catches stuff you might miss manually.

Those services are pretty expensive though. Probably only worth it if you're doing dozens of searches per month.

True, but they often have better search algorithms and can catch variations you might miss. Plus they're usually faster than dealing with individual state portals.

Smart approach. Better to be overly thorough on equipment purchases - liens can transfer with the equipment if you're not careful.

Let us know how it goes! Always curious to hear about real-world search experiences.

Absolutely this! I've seen deals where everything looked clear during due diligence but then a lien showed up months later that wasn't properly disclosed. Having that formal representation in writing saved my client from a major headache. The seller's attorney should be able to provide a clean UCC search certificate as part of the closing package.