Is the Name You Want Available?
The law will stop you from using a name that’s too similar to an existing business name or trademark. To find out whether the name you want is available, take these steps:
Search business and trademark name databases. Start with your state’s Secretary of State or Corporations Division office. Then search the database at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (www.uspto.gov
) to see that the name doesn’t infringe on established trademarks.
Search online. Enter the name plus “.com” in at least three search engines to see whether the name is already claimed as a URL. Also search the URL at sites such as www.godaddy.com
and www.network solutions.com
.
If searches turn up no prior claims to the name, protect it. The U.S. Small Business Administration provides state-by-state registration requirements at www.sba.gov/content/register-your-fictitious-or-doing-business-dba-name
. For widespread and stronger protection of your name, consider filing for a trademark, which helps you prevent others from promoting a similar name. Contact an attorney who specializes in trademark protection or visit the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office at www.uspto.gov
.
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