The first step to starting a business is to register a business name. It not only allows you to conveniently handle your tax issues with the government, but also acts as your first point of interaction with your customers. That’s why every business person wants to have a catchy business name, one that resonates well with their target customer base. Unfortunately, this is not an easy task. That’s because most names are usually taken up by other entrepreneurs that have registered their businesses before you. However, don’t let the search for a business name temper your drive to get started in business. That’s because, we have researched and compiled for you 4 tips to ensure that your company name is not already registered.
- Conduct business name search
The most effective ways to ensuring that your company name is not registered is to do a name search. One of the best companies to look to when doing a business search is Koloden. Koloden has a database of all the registered companies in the country, and can use this database to help you find out which business names are already taken, and which ones are not. It’s also a very cheap and effective service. To learn more about how to do a name search with Koloden, check out their services on https://www.koloden.com/state-of-incorporation.html.
- Check trademark for the names you are considering
Most companies have trademarks as a way of differentiating themselves from competitors. It is on this basis that each company files for a unique trademark registration with the government. Since trademarks have a relationship to the company’s business name, a search through the government trademarks database can give you an idea of which business names are already taken. This can make your search for a business name more efficient, by eliminating those that are already listed in the trademarks database.
- Conduct domain name search
Most companies register a domain name that is similar to their business name. The idea is to avoid confusing the customer when they want to interact with the company online. It is on this basis that the domain name becomes an essential tool in finding a company name that is not already taken. If there is no domain name registered to the business name you are interested in, then chances are that such a business name is free. However, make sure to combine the domain name search with other search tools such as the trademark search, since not every business has a registered domain name.
- Consult an attorney for a comprehensive trademark search
While a simple business name and trademark search can give you an idea of what trademarks and business names are already taken, this search may not be as comprehensive. Using the results of your search from government records might not help much when it comes to the issue of the business name and trademark infringement. An attorney, on the other hand, can help you come up with a detailed report that protects from trademark infringement lawsuits in the future.
Related posts:
