Before you create a name for a new business it is important to do a name search and check public records.
You should pick a name that describes your business, that the public is likely to remember, and one that is not already being used by another business or group as a trademark or a domain name.
In this internet age you can save yourself trouble by also doing some research to find if a website uses a particular name (domain). See if the name you plan to use is available as a website domain name. Use search engines like Google and Yahoo! to see how your chosen name is used.
Look in you local phone books to see if the name or any variation of the name is being used. Visit a library and look at business and trade publications.
Take a look at the federal trademark database of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Keep in mind that not all registered names are on that list.
Check your state or territorial trademark registry for the use of your proposed name or similar names.
Also do not forget to check the fictitious name databases (d/b/a or doing business as databases) at your local county, state or territorial office to see if a business or nonprofit is using your proposed name as a fictitious business name.
Not only must your name reflect your brand and be memorable, there are also a host of legal issues to consider. An attorney can aid you in the process of selecting a name for your business.
