If I register a Business Name, Do I need to Register a Trademark?

Introduction

As a business owner, you should always make sure that your name is protected. A business name is a central part of your brand and identity, so it’s important to ensure that no one else can use your name or a similar variation without being subject to legal action. In this article we’ll cover the difference between a trademark and a business name registration, how they differ in terms of protection, and what steps you need to take to protect both of them.

Benefits of Registering a Business Name

The benefits of registering a business name are numerous. When you register your business name, you can protect it from being used or registered by other companies. If you plan on getting loans or investors, having a registered trademark will help build credibility and make it easier to attract new customers by helping them differentiate between your brand and others. The registration itself helps establish brand awareness and makes it more difficult for others to copy or steal your brand identity while also giving you some legal rights over that name if someone else tries to use it in a way that’s misleading or false advertising.

Where to Register your Business Name

First, you need to register your Business Name with the USPTO. Then, if you intend to do business in a state other than where you are located, you will need to register with that state as well. In addition, there are many countries outside of the United States that require one or more additional registrations depending on what goods or services you offer and where those goods or services will be shipped.

Do You need to Register a Trademark?

If your business plans on using its name as part of its branding or marketing strategy, you may want to consider registering it as a trademark. Registering your business name can help prevent others from using your intellectual property without proper authorization. Registering this intellectual property could also help you pursue legal action against them if they do so anyway.

Takeaway

It is best practice to apply for both a business name and a trademark. In this way, you can protect your identity and brand in the same way that you would with any other business.

In a nutshell, registering your trademark allows you to protect what it stands for as well as how it is used (for example, if someone else were to use “your” name or logo). On the other hand, registering your business name essentially protects who owns it—it makes sure no one else can use it.

If you want to make sure that no one can steal or use your trademark or identity without permission, then make sure they are registered! Without these registrations being done first-hand by yourself through an independent agent like us here at Legalzoom Australia we cannot advise on whether there are any existing trademarks that may hinder our services from taking effect upon completion of the registration process.

Conclusion

Registering a business name is a crucial first step to starting your own business. If you are hoping to protect your brand, then it is best practice to apply for both a business name and trademark.