How do I check for business name availablity?

[danedawg99]

Or, do i have to? I've got a few ideas for names kicking around my noodle, but do i have to make sure I'm not infringing any copyrights by using any of them? And how do i do that? :confused:

[PrintDriver]

You need to check with your local and state business registry whatever they call it in your state, usually something like the secretary of state or the department of revenue. Do a web search for "registering a business name in <your state>".

You can also take it to the Federal level and get a trademark.
http://www.uspto.gov/ebc/indexebc.html
Trademarks, like websites, expire after a certain amount of time so be sure to keep it paid up or someone will likely swipe it.

[aceofbass]

hey guys, do you reckon if i use the business name ace of bass the company tht owns the pop group ace of base could sue me

[GreenThumb]

If you are gonna cater to hardcore musicians they are gonan HATE that name.

[(brackets)]

We were prevented from using a business name that was used by someone else in the next state - however we tried again with the name of our home town first and got it no probs.

(...then again each state/country is different and so are the fees.)

Worth a try!

[kerrysmagicshirt]

For all the brits out there looking for an answer to the same question - first check with Companies house - this is where and ltd, or llp company has to register so if there is an existing company of that name it will be there. However sole traders will not be registered there but may have registered their trading name through the Patents office (stick it in google) if they have you are prohibited to use it, if not go ahead - you can search for registered - or trade marked names. i recomend always getting your trading name registered to prevent anyone passing themselves off as you.