To legally name a business, form a company with that name. Check if the name is available where you’ll operate. Register the name by forming a legal entity. File as a sole proprietor or partnership initially. Add LLC or corporation status later.
Depending on your business structure and location, the state may require you to register a legal entity name. Each state may have different rules about what your entity name can be and usage of company suffixes.
Is it free to register a business name? No. There are filing fee requirements for reserving a business name, forming a company with one, getting a DBA, and filing an amendment. These fees vary by state.
Trademark Information
How to legally claim your business name? You’ve worked hard to come up with a name, logo or slogan for your business. But do you own it? The answer depends on a few things, including whether you register it as a trademark.
What would you like to protect? A trademark is essentially a brand name. To apply to register a trademark, conduct a thorough search to ensure no similar marks exist. The Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) database can be used for this purpose.
The basic cost to trademark a business name ranges from $225 to $600 per class.
Registering your business name for a trademark isn’t mandatory, but it does provide protection while building your brand and driving growth.
Creating And Registering A Business Name
To name a business and create a niche that appeals and attracts customers, follow these steps:
- Check if the name is already been taken
- Choose a name customers can easily spell, pronounce and remember
- Avoid inappropriate wording
- Conduct a name search on social media and Secretary of State sites
- Select a short, unique and memorable name
How to create a business name with Shopify? Describe your brand in one word, enter it into the shop name generator, and search availability instantly.
To make your business name stand out, focus on a name that is memorable and can be easily recalled by customers.
When you register your business name, you apply for legal entity protection. The four ways to do this are: entity name, trademark, copyright, and DBA.
A store that sells everything is often referred to as a "superstore" or "department store."
Steps To Naming A Business
How To Name A Business:
- Initial Market Research
- Determine Business Structure
- Consider Branding Strategy
- Verify Name Uniqueness
Get inspiration from meaningful memories, rhyming words, or a mentor’s name.
To register the name, it needs to be available in the state of formation. Use the state’s business name search tool for availability.
Business Name Changes
To fix a typo in the business name, file a certificate of correction. To change the business name more substantially, adopt a resolution approving the change and file the required paperwork as per state rules.
How do you set up a business name? Create a unique name that aligns with your company mission and values. Use creativity to stand out.
For legal and tax purposes, registering your business name provides nationwide protection. Consider company structure and goods/services offered when determining the registration method.
Selecting a name requires balancing creativity and practicality. Use a metaphor to spark creativity and define your company’s niche.