How to Search for an Available Business Name
You business name is an important identifying factor. Choosing the perfect name can take time. When you finally find the perfect name for your business, you'll want to ensure that you aren't using a name that infringes on another company's trademark. You'll also want to ensure the name you choose is original enough that it will be associated with your business and not another company. Searching for names already in use is the best way to avoid these pitfalls.
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Instructions
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Write down a list of potential business names for your business. Before you can find available names, you need to have an idea what you will call your business. The object is to compare your name ideas with existing business names to determine if your business name is available. Having several names in advance will give you options if you run into registered business names.
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Type your business names into a search engine. This is a quick test to get a feel for the availability of the names you've selected. The Internet offers worldwide access. Chances are, if one of the names you've chosen already exists, it will come up in an online search. This doesn't necessarily mean you won't be able to use the name you've selected. Except in the case of registered trademarks, such as McDonald's, a name is not subject to copyright. If your business is substantially different than a business with the same name, you may still be able to use the name. It depends upon trademark status.
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Search the United States Patent and Trademark website as well as the website for the secretary of state website for your state (see Resources). These two sources have specific search features and will help you determine if a business name is registered as a trademark or is in use at all. If no results appear for your search, it's likely the business name is clear and can be registered by you.
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Tips & Warnings
While you can use the same business name as another company (as long as the name isn't a registered trademark), you should avoid doing so if there is any chance the public will confuse your business with another. The more original your business name is to you, the easier it will be to build your public image.
