Choosing a Business Name FAQ

Questions:

• What's the best type of name for my business?
• What issues should I keep in mind when picking a name for my business?
• How do I find out if the business name I want is available?
• What is a trademark?
• What is the "legal name" of my business?
• What is a fictitious business name?
• Do I have to register my business name?
• Can I change my business name to include "Inc." or "LLC"?

Answer:

What issues should I keep in mind when picking a name for my business?

No doubt you'll spend hours brainstorming for a business name that represents your products or services -- a name that's both marketable and infused with personality. To help the creative process along, you might surf the Web, browse the dictionary, read trade magazines, and bounce ideas off of friends and colleagues. But as you hunt for the perfect name, keep three main questions in mind:

• Will your business name receive trademark protection?
• Is your proposed business name available?
• If your business will have a website, is a similar domain name available?

Plus, if you're starting a corporation, LLC, or limited partnership, you must comply with a few state rules for naming your business. (See Choosing a Corporate Name or Choosing a Name for Your LLC.)