How Do I Find Out if a Business Name Is Already Taken?

If you want to start a new business, you’ll need to choose a unique name. But how can you tell if a name is already taken? Here’s a quick guide to help you out.

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Checking state business databases

The first step in Checking state business databases is to see if the name you want is available in the state where you plan to register your business. Most states have a business entity database that you can search for free. For example, if you want to start a LLC in Texas, you can go to the Texas Secretary of State website and search their LLC database.

If the name you want is available, the next step is to check if it’s available as a trademark. You can do a preliminary search for free on the USPTO website. If you find that your proposed business name is available, the next step is to file a trademark application with the USPTO.

Searching the USPTO’s trademark database

To search the USPTO’s trademark database, go to the USPTO’s website at www.uspto.gov and click on the “Trademarks” link at the top of the page. On the “Trademarks” page, look for the “Search trademarks” link near the middle of the page and click on it.

Conducting a Google search

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to see if a business name is already in use, your best bet is to conduct a Google search. Just type the proposed business name into the search bar and hit enter. If there are any businesses out there using that name, they’re sure to show up in the results.

Checking domain name availability

The first step in starting any business is choosing the right name. But with so many businesses already out there, it can be tough to choose a unique name that isn’t already trademarked or in use.

One way to see if a business name is available is to check its domain availability. If the website domain for your desired name is available, there’s a good chance the business name is too.

To check domain availability, you can use a domain search tool like GoDaddy or NameCheap. Just enter your desired business name into the search bar and see what comes up. If the exact match domain is available, you’re in luck!

If the exact match domain is not available, you might still be able to snag a similar one. For example, if “example.com” is taken but “example.net” and “example.org” are available, those might be good options. Just keep in mind that it’s important to have a .com domain if possible, since that’s what most people will assume when they hear your business name.

If all of the .com domains for your desired business name are taken, don’t give up just yet! There are other ways to find out if a business name is available. You can do a quick Google search or check with the USPTO database to see if the name has been trademarked.

Checking social media platforms

Before you spend money on registering a business name, it’s important to make sure that the name is available. One way to do a quick check is to search social media platforms to see if the name is being used by another business. If the name is available, you can then proceed with registering your business with the state government.

Checking business name generators

If you’re starting a new business, one of the first things you need to do is choose a name. But how can you tell if the name you want is already taken?

One way to check is to use a business name generator. These tools can help you come up with new ideas and check to see if the names are available.

To use a business name generator, simply enter some keywords related to your business. The generator will then generate a list of potential names. You can then check to see if the names are available by searching for them on the internet or through your state’s business registration office.

If you find that the name you want is already taken, don’t despair! There are plenty of other options. You can try adding adjectives, changing the spelling, or coming up with a completely new name. With a little creativity, you’re sure to find a unique name for your new business.

Checking business name availability with the IRS

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is a good place to start when checking business name availability. You can search the IRS website for free to see if your desired business name is already in use.

To check business name availability with the IRS:

1. Visit the IRS website and select “Businesses” from the top menu.
2. Under “Tools & Resources,” select “Exempt Organizations Select Check.”
3. Enter your desired business name in the “Name” field and select “Search.”
4. If your desired business name is available, you will see a message that says, “No results found for your search.” If the business name is not available, you will see a list of businesses with that name.

Searching state corporation commission records

The best way to find out if a business name is already taken is to search the records of your state’s corporation commission. You can usually do this online, and it’s a good idea to do a nationwide search as well.

If you find that the name you want is already taken, you’ll need to choose a new one. Try to come up with something that is similar but not too similar to the existing business. For example, if the name you want is “XYZ Plumbing,” you could try “XYZ Services” or “ABC Plumbing.”

Checking county business license records

There are a couple of ways to check whether a business name is already taken. One way is to check with your county’s business license office. The office will have records of all businesses licensed in the county, including the business name and owner’s name. You can usually search the records online or in person.

Another way to check whether a business name is already taken is to do a search of your state’s business entity records. This will show you if there is already a corporation or LLC registered with that name. You can usually do this search online on your state’s Secretary of State website.

Checking state business license records

You can find out if a business name is already taken by checking state business license records. Business licenses are generally filed with the Secretary of State’s office in the state where the business will be located. The records will likely be available online, and you can search for them by business name. If the business name you want is already taken, you may have to choose a different name for your business.