How to Do a Business Name Search

When you start a business, one of the first things you need to do is decide on a name for your business. You may not use a name already chosen by someone else. Search your new business name to make sure no one has already claimed it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Visit your local municipal office and tell them you want to do a search for your business name. You can search some cities and counties online at llrx.com.
2. Use the computers at your local municipal office. Ask the clerk for assistance, and she will get you to the correct screen. There may be a limit on how much time you can spend on the computer if others are waiting, so be ready with your search.
3. Type in the business name you chose. If someone already has it, the name will come up along with information about that business. You will have to think of another name.
4. Make sure your search is wide enough. In some states, you may have the same name if you are so many miles from the other county or city. Make sure the search parameters are set to agree with the laws in your state.
5. Register the name if you cannot find it on the search. You must advertise this name in the local newspaper in case you did miss the entry. Various municipalities have different lengths of time to advertise so check your local laws. Most require that you advertise your new name at least three times.