When it comes to registering a business name, there is a set procedure that you need to follow. In fact, you should get even the logo of your business registered. After all, the name and logo make the identity of your business.

It is very important for you to register them in advance so that the same name and logo could not be used by other businesses. Besides that, it is also a legal requirement. Following is a brief rundown on the registration process for business names in the United States of America.

Steps To Register a Business Name

Make Sure The Name Is Available

Obviously, the first thing that you have to do is to make sure that the name you have chosen for your business is not already in use by any other existing business. You can do this search by contacting your county clerk’s office. Alternatively, you can also visit the official website of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. In order to speed up the process, most states have made the database publicly available on Internet through their official websites.

Protect Your Business Name

In order to protect your business name nationally so that businesses in other states could not use it, you must register the name as a trademark.

The official website of the United States Patent and Trademark Office provides you an option to do the registration online right from the comfort and convenience of your home. However, there is a certain amount of fee that you will have to pay for it.

If Your Logo Is Not Ready Yet, You Can Register It Later

It is also important for you to keep in mind that registering both your business name and logo together is not legally mandatory. If the logo for your business is not yet ready, you have an option to register it later by filling out and submitting a separate form.

Trademark Electronic Application System

The online registration process for business names takes place through the Trademark Electronic Application System. You just have to fill out the required details and submit it. There are separate forms to register a business name, a logo and to register both of them together. Make sure you choose the correct form according to your requirements.

The Fee May Vary From One State To Another

When you submit the forms, you will also be asked to pay a certain amount of fee, which you can pay through your debit or credit card. Some states also allow you to pay through PayPal. Besides that, if you are filing your applications manually by visiting your state office, you will be required to pay through a check or a demand draft.

Last, but not the least, though it is very easy to register a business name, you are strongly recommended not to use a similar business name that is already in use. Many people have the misconception that keeping a similar name of an existing popular company will help them attract their customers easily.

In reality, such attempts will only hurt your business reputation. Besides that, you may also get into legal trouble for using a similar business name. So, make sure whatever name you are registering for your business is unique.