1. Perform a Name Search: The first step in determining whether a name is available is to perform a name search. Start by conducting an online search using a search engine like Google or Bing. Verify whether another company in your sector or area is already using the name. A business name lookup tool offered by your state or local government is another option.
2. Verify the Trademark Office’s records: Searching for trademarks is another approach to see if a name has already been taken. A brand name that has been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is legally protected by a trademark. If the name you have in mind has already been trademarked, you can check on the USPTO website.
3. Verify with the Secretary of State: The Secretary of State’s office manages business registration in each state. To look up already registered business names, go to the website of the Secretary of State’s office in your state. The name you desire might need to be changed if it’s already taken, or you might think about adding a distinctive identification like a region or keyword. Is it possible to register a business name without using it?
You can indeed register a business name even if you never use it. But if you don’t use the name for a specific amount of time, it can be made accessible to someone else. Continually renewing your business name registration may also be necessary, depending on your state’s regulations. Can a Company Have Two Names?
A company may use two names, yes. A company might, for instance, have both a legal and a trade name. For legal and tax purposes, the legal name is the name that has been registered with the state. The name that the company uses in its branding and marketing initiatives is known as a trade name, fictitious name, or DBA (doing business as). Can I Use More Than One Business Name for My LLC?
Yes, an LLC may contain various business names. However, you must file fake name or DBA registration forms with your state for each name. As a result, you can operate under more than one LLC under various business names.
A generic name is a well-known term used to describe a good or service, like “Pizza Shop.” On the other hand, a trade name is a brand name that distinguishes a company from rivals, like “Papa John’s.” Consider the name’s originality and whether it is connected to a specific brand or company to determine whether it is a trade name or generic name. The name might not be protected by a trademark if it is generic. But if the name is distinctive and connected to a certain brand, it might qualify for trademark protection.