How to Select a Business Name

Choosing a name for your business can be intimidating, but its really not as difficult as it may seem. Make sure that you choose something relevant that reflects what your business does. Choosing a name because it's cute isn't good enough.

Instructions

1. Go online a research what other companies are called that do the same thing as you. If you are going to have an online presence, it's important to not have the same name as someone else. It can be worse if the person with the same name as you has a bad reputation.

2. Take a minute to list everything that your company does. Can you combine them in an interesting way? Or maybe you want to include your location in your name (example: Main Street Oil). Many people also use their name (Smith & Sons).

3. If you are incorporating, make sure your idea for a name hasn't already been used in your state.

4. Find out what needs to be done in order to get the name legal and do it right away. Check with your local and state governments. Don't forget to register with the IRS as well.

5. Check with a site like GoDaddy.com to make sure your domain name is available. If it is, grab it right away to avoid it being bought by someone else.

Tips & Warnings

• * Don't get overwhelmed. Your name is not as important as your reputation.