Also known as a "Trade Name" or "Fictitious Name," this allows you to conduct business under a name different from your personal name or official entity name. It is often registered through local or state government offices and is useful for sole proprietors who want a professional brand name.
Provides nationwide legal protection for your business name, logos, and slogans. In the U.S., you can file through the United States Patent and Trademark Office. This prevents competitors in the same industry from using a confusingly similar name.
The official legal name of your business (e.g., an LLC or Corporation) registered at the state level. This process usually involves filing Articles of Organization with a Secretary of State and paying a filing fee, such as the $99 fee in Ohio .
It is often recommended to form your legal entity (like an LLC) first to ensure the approved name matches your business licenses.
Secures the digital identity of your business (e.g., yourcompany.com). While not a legal business registration, it is a critical "feature" for branding and prevents others from owning your preferred URL. Key Considerations for Registration
The following services and legal tools allow you to register or secure a name for different purposes.
