How do I trademark my company 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 check if a business name is trademarked?
You can search for federally registered trademarks by using the free trademark database on the USPTO’s website. To start, go to the USPTO’s Trademark Electronic Business Center at http://www.uspto.gov/main/trademarks.htm and choose “Search.” Then follow the instructions you see on the screen.
Are names of companies trademarked?
What Is a Trademark? Business names, product names, logos and labels can all be trademarks. You acquire a trademark by using your mark in commerce—in other words, using it when you conduct your business. For additional protection, you can register a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Can an LLC own a trademark?
There are many different types of legal entities that can own a trademark. The most common that we see, and also the simplest, are LLCs and corporations. Usually, a LLC or corporation develops a mark to identify itself as a source of goods or services.
Is an LLC a trademark?
Can I trademark a similar name?
A business name generally can be protected as a trademark under federal and state trademark law. As a general rule, if someone in a similar field to yours is already using a particular business or organization name, you should not use it, nor should you use a name that would be confusingly similar.
Can someone steal my business name?
Anyone can snatch up a business name and use it for their own business. If you’ve ever wondered “How do I protect my business name from being used by someone else?” take heart. Federal, state and local laws may all offer tools you can use to protect your company name and preserve your rights as the business owner.
Can I own a trademark?
Once a business entity is formed, typically it will be the registered trademark owner. Under U.S. law joint ownership of a trademark is legal. However, practically speaking it can be challenging to jointly own a mark.
How to Register a Trademark for Your Company Name and Logo (7 Steps) Step 1: Consider Hiring a Trademark Attorney Step 2: Specify Your ‘Mark’ and Associated Products or Services Step 3: Search for Similar Marks in the USPTO Database Step 4: Gather the Appropriate Files and Correct Fees Step 5: Complete Your Applications
How can I search for a trademark name?
To find out if a name is trademarked, you will have to search the trademark registry with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Visit the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s website (uspto.gov) and click “Trademark Search” located under the “Trademarks” tab.
What is a trademark business name?
A trademark is a sign, mark, or indicator used by an individual, business, or organization to identify a product or service as its own and to distinguish the product or service from those of its competitors. A business name generally can be protected as a trademark under federal and state trademark law.
Should you trademark business name?
You should always trademark your business name. At least, the name you use for your business. The name everyone knows. The name people recognize you by. Nobody wants their idea stolen. Nobody wants their thoughts taken from them before they can get good traction out of it.