Congratulations! You have found a unique, memorable, and easy-to-remember business name. What’s the next step?
You need to figure out how to register the business name so that it doesn’t get registered or claimed by other aspiring entrepreneurs.
Consider this—there were more than 451,752 new business registration applications in the US in March 2023 alone.
Knowing how to formally register your business can set your business apart from the sea of businesses established every month. Plus, it establishes your brand’s identity.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to register a business name.
Let’s get started.
1. Form a Business Entity
The easiest way to register a business name is to form a business entity.
Why? Because when registering your business entity, you will be required to provide your new business name.
Ideally, there are four types of business entities, namely:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Partnership
- Limited Liability Company
- Corporation
Remember that different business entities have different legal challenges and registration requirements, so familiarize yourself with each entity.
To simplify this process, leverage a business formation solution. Check out this Inc Authority review post by GovDocFiling to see how this business registration service can help you.
2. File an Assumed or “Doing Business As” Name
Another way to register a business name is to file a ‘Doing Business As’ or assumed name.
Otherwise known as a fictitious name, a DBA is a name you can use instead of your legal business name.
You may be required to file a DBA at the county or state level.
This is a great idea for aspiring business owners who plan to change their business names in the future.
It’s important to know that a DBA doesn’t give your business any legal protection, so consider this option as an afterthought.
3. Register a Trademark
Alternatively, you can trademark your business name at the state or federal level.
When you trademark your business name, you protect your brand identity elements like the symbol, color, slogan, logo, etc. from being used by anyone without your knowledge.
4. Register a Domain Name for Your Business
Lastly, claim a domain name for your business.
In today’s digital world, you can’t afford to miss the opportunity to connect with your customers online.
There are plenty of domain name registrars you can use to establish your online presence.
Conclusion
Knowing how to register a business name in the US doesn’t have to be a complicated process.
Follow these simple steps to get your business name registered:
- Form a business entity
- File for an assumed or “Doing Business As” name
- Register a trademark
- Register a domain name for your business
For more details, have a look at this infographic from GovDocFiling.
