You might be unsure if you need to register a trade name if you want to launch a business in Arizona. You do, is the answer. Any person or organization conducting business in Arizona must register a trade name with the Arizona Secretary of State in accordance with state law.
A DBA (doing business as) name is another term for a trade name. It is the name that a company uses to introduce itself to the general audience. It’s crucial to register a trade name since it assures that no other company in Arizona is using it, which can lead to consumer confusion. Additionally, it provides legal protection to the company owner, enabling them to be the only users of the name.
In Arizona, registering a trade name is a rather straightforward procedure. To make sure the name you wish to use is available, you must first check the Arizona Secretary of State’s database. If so, you can submit an application for registration and make the necessary payment. In Arizona, registering a trade name will cost $10 as of 2021.
It’s crucial to understand that trademark protection is not offered by registering a trade name in Arizona. A trademark is a design, word, or phrase that identifies and sets one company’s products and services apart from those of another. You must submit a separate application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in order to get trademark protection.
In conclusion, you must register a trade name with the Arizona Secretary of State if you intend to conduct business in Arizona under a name other than your legal name. The procedure is easy and affordable, and it ensures that no other company in Arizona is using the same name while also offering legal protection. Trademark protection, which necessitates a separate application with the USPTO, is not offered by the registration of a trade name.
You should pick a name that is distinct and has not already been registered by another company if you want to develop a trade name. Then you can conduct business under that name and create a brand. The state of Arizona does not compel you to register a trade name, but doing so can provide legal protection and assist stop others from using your preferred brand.