how do i find out if a business name is taken,Copy writen?

Question

I am starting a business and i found a name that i like. i wan to know if its been copywritten yet. Is there a web site or somewhere i can go?

Answer 1

It's your Secretary of State Web site. If it has an online registration form for corporations, you can search through existing names to find out which ones are taken.

Answer 2

That would be a trademark.

I listed some links where you can do some preliminary name checking. However, please be aware that this is merely scratching the surface of what's out there.

Only comprehensive research will tell you if the name is truly available. But, these links are free & a great place to start, so I'd try them out first.

There are other sites that offer free searching capabilities in conjunction with their commercial services, so I'm not able to post those links due to the Yahoo! TOS. You'll also want to check domain names & yellow pages, so simply do a search for "free domain name search" and "national yellowpages" and the appropriate links will pop up.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 3

I'm not sure where you are, but the process is the same whether in the States or in Canada, go to the government business site and search the name. If there are no results found you are safe to use that name.

Answer 4

You may have to go to the courthouse and search. Help is available to do that, or check with the office of Secretary of State, They would be able to give you instructions.

Answer 5

All corporations must file with the state when the originally incorporate. You can check this public record.

Answer 6

Apply for an employer tax id number from the IRS, and they'll tell you if it's taken.