How do you make sure no one else can use your business name?
To be sure no one improperly uses your business’s name or branding, you need to obtain a trademark. To do so, you’ll need to file an application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Filing an application does not automatically mean your trademark will be approved.
How do I protect my online business name?
Internet Names You can protect your business name online by registering it as a domain name. A domain name is the Internet address you type into your Internet browser, and you can purchase a domain name from a company that provides domain registration services.
How do you legally protect a brand name?
Register Your Trademark The best thing founders can do to legally protect their brands is to register their trademarks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. You can do it online, but founders should definitely consider enlisting the help of an attorney, as there are many forms to fill out and strict deadlines.
Do you have to trademark your business name?
Trademarks are managed by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). There’s no legal requirement for you to register a trademark. Using a business name can give you ‘common law’ rights, even without formally registering it.
How do I claim my brand name?
Registering a trademark for a company name is pretty straightforward. Many businesses can file an application online in less than 90 minutes, without a lawyer’s help. The simplest way to register is on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s Web site, www.uspto.gov.
How do you find out if a business is registered with the IRS?
You need to find out if your business exists in the eyes of the IRS or if you’re starting fresh.
- Check accounting for tax records.
- Check your company’s records for previous tax filings.
- Review your incorporation papers or other business registration documents.
Can I trademark a name that already exists?
If you’re wondering, “can you trademark something that already exists,” the simple answer is “no.” Generally speaking, if somebody has used a trademark before you, you can’t register the trademark for yourself.
Can someone steal your business name?
Anyone can snatch up a business name and use it for their own business. There’s no one uniform database or agency that ensures only one business is using a specific business name. That’s how we often see very similar company names that aren’t related by franchise or corporate ownership from one state to another.
How do I copyright my business name and logo?
Filing a Copyright Registration Application Go to the U.S. Copyright Office website. Select “Electronic Copyright Registration” to fill in the Form VA online for registration of a work of Visual Arts. Name the creator of the logo and include contact information for the owner. Many logos are works for hire.