Before starting a new business, it’s essential to conduct thorough research on existing company names before you choose your own. The importance of choosing a unique and legally permissible business name cannot be overstated.
Your brand name is not just a label. It is your first introduction to customers, investors, and potential hires. It is pivotal in shaping your brand identity, so you must ensure the company name is legally available.
A Crucial Reasons of Company Name Search Availability
There are several reasons why ensuring the availability of a company name through a thorough search is crucial, including:
1. Legal Compliance
The primary reason to check the availability of a business name is legal compliance. Trademark laws stipulate that a new business cannot adopt a name that is identical or too similar to a registered trademark
2. Risk Mitigation
Attempting to register or operate a business using a name that infringes on someone else’s trademark rights exposes you to the risk of lawsuits. Beyond legal ramifications, the financial and logistical costs of renaming your business can be substantial.
From business cards to domain names, collateral must be changed, incurring additional expenses.
3. Brand Differentiation
Please note that a unique brand name is crucial for brand differentiation. A firm brand name is one that people readily associate with and only your business.
Remember, choosing a name similar to an existing business in your market space can confuse and dilute your brand identity.
How to Check Whether a Company Name is Taken
How do you check the availability of a company name? To help you conduct a company name search availability, here is a step-by-step helpful guide:
1. State and Federal Registries (For US Businesses)
Check state and federal business registries and trademark databases for US-based businesses like the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS).
2. Local Registries (Non-US Businesses)
Meanwhile, for businesses outside the U.S., consult your local business registries to ensure name uniqueness.
3. Doing Business As (DBA) Search
Try to research the DBAs, as businesses often operate under names different from their official registration. DBAs may not be formally registered but can still hold legal claims.
4. Manual Internet Search
The last option is to conduct a manual internet search using search engines, platforms like Yelp and LinkedIn, and resources like Crunchbase.
How to Pick A Company Name
Choosing the right company name involves creating a memorable, relevant, and legally sound identity. Here are several key points you should consider:
1. Memorable and Descriptive
Select a name that is easy to remember, pronounce, and spell. A memorable name aids brand recall, while an easily spelled name facilitates online visibility.
2. Scalable
Next, opt for a scalable name that can grow with your business and resonate with a broader audience.
3. Legally Viable
Lastly, ensure the chosen name is legally available and doesn’t infringe on existing trademarks or copyrights. Avoid intentionally misspelled words or obscure references.
To summarize, checking the availability of your company name is a foundational step in establishing a successful business.
For legal assistance in conducting a thorough company name search availability, AM Badar’s Litigation and Dispute Service is ready to assist you. For a comprehensive list of our services, visit this page or click this insights page. If you have specific inquiries or require assistance, contact us now!
References:
- https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/how-to-find-out-if-a-business-name-is-taken
- https://stripe.com/resources/more/how-to-check-if-a-business-name-is-taken
- https://www.sos.state.mn.us/business-liens/start-a-business/how-to-check-business-name-availability/
Reviewed by Nabil Argya Yusuf
