UCC filing rejected - debtor entity name doesn't match state records exactly

Wait, that doesn't sound right. I thought you always had to use the current legal name as it appears in the state records at the time of filing?

It depends on whether you're doing a continuation vs an amendment. For continuations, you generally stick with the original debtor name format to maintain the chain. If the name has actually changed, that's when you'd need a UCC-3 amendment instead.

This is why I always double-check the debtor name format before any UCC filing. Small punctuation differences can void the entire security interest if not handled correctly.

That sounds helpful. Does it also check against current state business records or just document-to-document comparison?

Primarily document consistency checking, which is usually what you need for continuations anyway. It's perfect for catching those tiny formatting differences that cause rejections.

I feel your pain. Had a UCC-1 rejected because the business name had 'Inc.' on the charter but I filed it as 'Incorporated' - apparently those aren't considered the same thing.

Exactly! The whole system needs an overhaul. We're dealing with real businesses and real loans here, not some computer programming exercise.

That makes sense. So I should use 'Northern Equipment Solutions LLC' without the comma since that's how it appears on the original 2020 filing?

Exactly. Consistency with the original filing is key for continuations. The filing office should accept it if it matches the original UCC-1 format.

This is good advice. I always keep copies of original filings specifically for this reason - you need that exact formatting for future amendments and continuations.

Good point about the search. How much do those typically cost? Is it worth it for every filing?

Usually around $15-25 per search in most states. Definitely worth it when you're dealing with a $180k lien like the OP mentioned. Much cheaper than having to redo filings or deal with lapsed liens.

What did they tell you when you called? Any specific formatting rules they mentioned?

They said for business entities, use the exact format from the original filing for continuations, or do a name change amendment first if you need to update it. They also mentioned that some filers use document checking tools to avoid these issues.

Yeah, that's exactly what tools like Certana.ai help with - catching those formatting mismatches before you submit and get rejected.

Good strategy. How close to the 5-year deadline can you file? I've got about 3 months left.

You can file up to 6 months before the expiration date, so 3 months out is perfect timing. Just don't wait until the last minute in case there are any issues.

Not everyone has the budget for that though. Sometimes you have to DIY these filings.

Fair point. At minimum, use some kind of verification tool to double-check your work before submitting. The filing fees add up quick when you keep getting rejections.

Glad it worked out! This thread will definitely help others dealing with the same issue.

Perfect example of why consistency with original filings is so important. Thanks for updating us on the resolution.

Smart approach. Better to check now than deal with rejection stress later. Document verification tools really take the guesswork out of it.

Good plan. Start early and you'll have plenty of time to fix any issues that come up.