How to Check on Business Names

After you choose what kind of business you want to operate, you have to choose a name. This step is essential to all your other business formation activities. Before you can create a business card, file business formation paperwork, open a bank account, or rent an office, you must have a business name. If a business is already using the name you want, you may be violating trademark laws by using the same name. 1. Check with the Secretary of State in the state you wish to operate (or form your business). Usually, business formation occurs at the state level. The state maintains a list of all operating businesses. The state's website usually has a business section where you can search through names to see if your desired business name has already been taken. 2. Check the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to ensure you don't take a name that has a trademark. They have a searchable database accessible through the "Trademark Electronic Search System." 3. If there is no record of your business at the state level or within the patent and trademark system, you are most likely safe to begin formally creating your business with your chosen name. You may also want to do a simple internet search to see what comes up with your business name just in case there is material you wouldn't want associated with your business.