Trade Names vs Trademarks
A trade name is the official name under which a company does business. It is not the same as a trademark that legally protects products and services.
Registration Process
Trade names register under state provisions, while trademarks register under the Trademark Act. The approval process also differs for both.
Trade Names and Trademarks
Trade names provide notice of usage but do not prevent others from using the same name. Trademarks secure brand names and provide legal protection.
A trade name is what a company uses officially and registers with state authorities as "doing business as" names. They help identify a business during operations and customer interactions.
Examples of Trade Names
Examples of trade names include "McDonald’s" for McDonald’s Corporation. Trade names distinguish one business from another and protect against confusion.
How to Register a Trade Name
To register a trade name, visit your County Recorder and ask for the DBA filing form. Registration rules differ based on jurisdiction guidelines.
What Is Considered a Trade Name?
A trade name is the official business name under which a company operates. It is also known as a "doing business as" (DBA) name. Trade names help businesses distinguish themselves and protect against confusion.