How to Check if the Name of a Business is Taken

The appropriate name is essential when launching a new company. However, it’s crucial to confirm that a name is available and not already being used by another company before deciding on it. Here are some actions you can take to see if a business name is already taken: 1. Run a Name Search: The first step in determining whether a business name is already taken is to run a name search. To look up existing company names in the state, visit the online database maintained by the Illinois Secretary of State. The Illinois Corporation/LLC Search is the name of this database. To check if the name you intend to use for your company has already been registered, enter it. You’ll have to pick a different name if the first one is already taken.

2. Verify Trademark Registrations: After looking through the Illinois Corporation/LLC Search database, it’s a good idea to see if there are any trademarks that are already registered that might be confusingly similar to the name you wish to use. To find out if any trademarks already exist that might compete with the name you’ve chosen, search the internet database of the US Patent and Trademark Office. If the name is already taken, you may need to choose another one or consult a trademark lawyer to find out whether you may use the name. 3. Check Domain Names: It’s a good idea to see if the domain name for your preferred name is available in addition to looking for existing company names and trademarks. To find available domain names, utilize a domain registrar like GoDaddy. You might wish to think about selecting an alternate name if the desired domain name is not available.

Depending on the kind of business entity you wish to create, Illinois business registration fees will vary. The current filing costs for each type of entity are listed below:

$150 – Corporation – LLC: $150

$150 – Partnership – Sole Proprietorship: There is no cost.

In Illinois, how much does it cost to obtain a small company license?

Depending on the location and type of business, obtaining an Illinois small business license can be expensive. Some firms might not need any licenses at all, while others might need several. Here are a few instances of typical business licenses and the costs that go along with them:

– No charge is necessary to obtain a Retailer’s Occupation Tax (sales tax) permit. – Licensing fee for a restaurant: $660 – Types of liquor licenses and their locations vary. It’s vital to remember that these costs could change and differ based on your company’s particular needs.

Any company that conducts business within the borders of Illinois is generally regarded as doing business there. This includes companies that sell goods or services to citizens of Illinois as well as those that have a physical presence in the state, such as an office or store. It is best to speak with an attorney or accountant if you are unsure whether your company qualifies as doing business in Illinois.