What is a Trade Name?
A trade name is the official name under which a business operates. It is commonly known as a "doing business as" (DBA) name.
Trade Names vs. Trademarks
Trade names distinguish one business from another and protect against confusion where they operate. They are not required to have distinct character like trademarks, which distinguish goods and services.
What is considered a trade name?
A trade name is the official name under which a business operates. It is commonly known as a "doing business as" (DBA) name.
To register a trade name, go to your County Recorder and ask for the DBA filing form. The Small Business Administration website provides links to trade name registration requirements in each state.
A registered business entity can file for trade name registration if the name differs from its registered name. Trade names distinguish one business from another.
If a name is trademarked, you cannot use it even if your business is in a different state. Registering a trade name is important for branding but does not provide unlimited brand name protection.
What is the trade name of my business?
A trade name is the official name under which a business operates. To register a trade name, go to your County Recorder. The Small Business Administration website provides links to trade name registration requirements in each state. A company can choose to have the same business and trade name. For example, McDonald’s Corporation does business under the trade name "McDonald’s".
A registered business entity can file for trade name registration if it differs from its registered name. Trade names protect against confusion where businesses operate. They are not trademarks, which distinguish goods and services.
If a name is trademarked, you cannot use it. Registering a trade name is important for branding but does not provide unlimited protection.