
You can use the online tool to search business names and find out whether another business is already using the name you have chosen. In most states, the website of the state business filing agency includes an online entity name check tool.
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How to check if a business name is takenĮvery state has a secretary of state or other state agency that’s responsible for business entity filings. These additional searches help you minimize the chance that another business owner will accuse you of trademark infringement and ask you to stop using the name after you have already spent time and money marketing it. In addition, a more comprehensive business name search can identify additional businesses that may be using the name you’ve chosen and that may have trademark rights in the name. For example, you probably can’t form a business called “Festive Party Supplies, Inc.” if there is already a “Festive Party Supply, LLC” in your state.īy checking available business names before you file your paperwork, you’ll avoid having your entity formation request denied because of naming problems.

That means you can’t choose a name that’s identical to another business entity’s name, or that is only different because of an “s” on the end or a different business entity identifier. To form a business entity such as a corporation, limited liability company, or nonprofit corporation, you must file formation documents with your state. Why should you check business name availability? If you choose a name that’s already in use, you’ll have trouble forming a business entity and you may be infringing another company’s trademarks.

Before you start ordering signs and business cards, you should make sure your name isn’t already being used by another business.
