Registering and Protecting Your Business Name
To make your DBA legitimate, you have to publish intent in a local newspaper. Then file the name. The cost to register a business name varies by state. A trademark application costs additional fees. Most states require you register your business name unless you operate as a sole proprietor under your legal name. An available business name must be registered and protected by forming a legal entity like an LLC. You can amend clerical errors by filing a certificate of correction. To change a name substantially, adopt a resolution approving the change. When starting a business, research your state’s registration laws to ensure you legally use the business name.
Using your company name as a trademark ensures consistency and reinforces your brand identity. It allows customers to associate your company name directly with the products or services you offer, making it easier for them to recognize and remember your brand. If your company name already has a strong reputation and recognition in the marketplace, using it as a trademark can save you the time, effort, and costs associated with creating and promoting a new brand name.
You will need to register it as a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The name that you select for your company must be distinctive to receive trademark protection.
Displaying Your Business Name
According to the Regulations, it is a requirement to display a registered business name at any place of business open to the public and on written business communications, such as emails, letters, and business documents.
All registered businesses must display a signage with the name and registration number of the business on the exterior of each location of business pursuant to Rule 13A(1) of the Registration of Businesses Act 1956.
Every company must display its company name on the outside of every office or place in which its business is carried on. The name must be clearly displayed and it must be both conspicuous and legible. On all its business letters, order forms, and websites, a company must display:
- The part of the United Kingdom in which the company is registered.
- The company’s registered number.
- The address of the company’s registered office.
Choosing a Business Name
Can I just use my name as a business name? You can use your legal name as your business or company’s official name. Limited liability companies can use personal names in a variety of ways.
When deciding on a business name, dedicate ample time and resources to researching.
What are good names for a company? Ideas for catchy business names include using rhythm or alliteration.
Can a business name be different from another business name? Every state has its own laws about just how different a name must be.
How can I create my own business name? Ways to create your own business name include branding yourself, addressing your customer base, and making lists of words that represent the qualities you want to market.
Local and Specific Business Name Requirements
Do you have to register a business name in Australia? You must register a business name in Australia unless you trade under your own name or fall within an exemption.
How do I get a sole proprietorship business permit? The process for obtaining a sole proprietorship business permit will vary depending on the country or jurisdiction.
For a designer beginning or renaming his/her own business, there’s usually that critical decision: should I use my own name or have a business name for my services? In the past, using my own name was discouraged so I chose a "cool" name instead for my business. But I’m about to move to another region where I need to either renew or change my business name. My clients know me well, and they often prefer to use my website domain instead of my business name. I don’t have a common name, so I’m quite easy to find, and I like both my name and business name!