How do you know if your business name is already taken? This blog will discuss how you can know whether your business name is already taken.
If a business name has been trademarked already, you will not be able to use it. Therefore, you should try to find out if the business name already exists before using it for your own venture.
The successful operation of a firm depends on its name. It must be distinctive and resonate with the intended audience. So what if someone stole the name of your company? You should strive to learn more about this as soon as possible. because it will take you longer to discover how similar the names are.
Importance of Checking Whether Your Business Name has Been Taken
Knowing the availability of your business name is essential for the smooth progression of your business venture. Because while naming your business uniquely and creatively, you will eventually attract a lot of customers’ trust and enable them to buy your product.
But if they come across a similar name and business like yours, they will look to other better options. Further, you can get into legal hassles. However, while looking for names, if you check the availability of a business name, you can avoid future conflicts regarding the same.
Thus, it is essential to check the availability of your business name while creating one. There are many ways you can know the same, and we will discuss them in detail below.
How to Check if Your Business Name is Taken?
There are many ways you can know whether your business name has already been taken or not. Getting to know the different ways to check the availability of the same will help you to start a venture that is unique yet creative at the same time. These are some of the ways you can check the availability of your business name:
Check DBA
One of the most effortless ways to check the availability of your business name is by checking the DBA. DBA, or Doing Business As, is registering your company under a fictitious name that any other company has not taken.
When you come up with a business name, check whether the DBA of a company matches your company. For instance, if you are naming your business “Best Roofing Systems”, check whether there are any other companies with matching DBA or not. If your name is unique and you find no DBA fits, you are good to go.
Know the Trademark Business Names
Know the trademark business names. While naming their business, most people tend to get their trademark to ensure there are no similarities or discrepancies. But if your business name crosses the territory of the brand of another company’s business name, then it can cause a massive hurdle for your business venture.
So, before finalizing the business name, check whether the name is another company’s trademark. Then, look for other unique names and start your business venture without any legal conflicts. Hence, know the trademark business names and keep a business name for your experience that will become your company’s trademark. You Can make Company Name Check Process Easy With Our Experts.
Do the General Business Name Availability Searches Online
For a more convenient way of knowing the availability of your business name, check the exact words using general business name availability searches with a search engine like Google. The more searches you make, the better. Furthermore, you can avail yourself of the assistance of business name generators.
You can do a free company name search at Vakilsearch online. Just enter your company name and check if it is registered or not.
Check the LLC Registration Site of Your Country
The company needs to register under the LLC registry to establish a business. Each state has different registration policies that you can know from the secretary of state website.
So, if you want to know the availability of your business name, check the LLC registration of companies that are registered under them and ensure that your name is not similar to theirs. This way, you can know the authenticity of the business name and build your business with a positive start. So if you are planning to start your venture, ensure that your business name is registered and does not match with an LLC registry of other companies.
Know the Domain Name
The most critical step in making your presence in the online business market is by registering your domain name. Once your domain name is registered, nobody can claim them to be theirs. Similarly, if you take up a business name where the domain name is registered, you can get in legal trouble.
So, the next time you plan to start a business, make sure your business name has a registered domain name that is unique and different from other companies. This will help you go ahead with your venture without worrying about the same consequences. Also there many Before making Business Name Change Online.
What to Do if Your Business Name Is Taken
If another business entity has already officially registered with the same or a similar name, potentially hindering approval of your chosen name. The name may be trademarked by someone else, posing a barrier to its use, even if not actively used by the trademark holder. Another business is operating under the name, potentially granting them legal rights to it. If you find that your desired business name is already taken, here are a few things to consider:
- Check Domain Ownership: Verify who owns the domain name associated with your business name. If it’s already taken, it’s advisable to steer clear of using that name to avoid potential issues
- Protect Your Brand: To prevent competitors with the same name, register trademarks or copyrights for your brand. This legal safeguard ensures your brand’s uniqueness.
If your business name is already in use then:
Negotiate: Consider negotiating with the current business owner for the use of the name, but be aware that they might be hesitant to sell if they’ve invested significantly in building their brand
Secure Your Trademark: If your business idea is distinctive, explore getting your own registered trademark to protect it legally
Domain Registration: Register your business as a domain name using online tools. This helps clarify your online presence and prevents confusion among consumers when exploring products or services.
Alternatively, negotiate a licensing agreement allowing you to use the name while the original owner retains ownership, possibly involving payment of a fee or royalty. This option may require legal assistance to ensure proper drafting and execution of the agreement. It’s essential to carefully consider your options and consult our IP lawyers before deciding on the use of a business name already in use by another party.
Conclusion
If our business name has been taken, it’s critical for the success of your business. We also come across business names that sound similar to one another. This should not happen to any business. If two firms have the same name, it can lead to legal conflicts and loss of the capital invested. So, don’t you think you should check the business names already in your mind before finalising it? After all, you would not like to lose your credibility by choosing a poor name for your business, isn’t it?
Overall, it is essential to know whether your chosen business names are available or taken. Also, check the DBA, Trademark, google the availability, and lastly, check the LLC registry and domain name registry of companies to ensure your business name becomes your trademark.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you check if a name is already used by a business?
You can quickly verify this online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website. To confirm if a name is available for a company in India, follow these steps: Navigate to the MCA website and select the 'Name Availability' option within the 'Services' tab.
How do I find the original name of my business?
These databases can be searched, offering details about every company, including the identity of the business proprietor.
Can two companies have the same name?
No, Your company cannot share the same name as another company. Once a company or LLP is registered, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs prohibits any other company or LLP from being registered with a similar name, as per the Companies Act, 2013.
What to do when the business name you want is taken?
Initially, attempt to locate the company name on the MCA website. If the name has been claimed, it will appear in the website's listings.
What is the importance of choosing a business name?
A company's name forms the cornerstone of its trademark design, holding considerable value. While the business function is crucial, a strong company name is equally vital for attracting customers, fostering discussion, and garnering recommendations.
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