If I want to start a business, how do I check nationally if my business name is taken?

Answer 1

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.

Comprehensive research consists of looking at marks that are similar in Sound, Appearance or Meaning in the pending & registered Federal AND State trademark files as well as the US National Common-Law files.

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 2

Each state registers the name. There can be two companies with the same name but in different states. If you start a company and want to do business in another state, then you have to register with that state. If the name is already taken in that state, then the state will notify you and you will have to choose another name. You can check the Internet.

You can have Smith's Auto Shop in two states owned by different people.

Answer 3

I don't believe there is a national registry because you can have the same business name as long as you are not competing in the same industry.

You should first check with your state/county: http://www.sba.gov/hotlist/businessnames.html

A quick search would work too: type in your desired business name and industry or market you want to be in. You should get some hits.

Answer 4

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