Finding a name
There's a right way to name your organization and also a path that leads to trouble. The path that leads to trouble is picking a name without research. Let's go through a couple of simple steps to start your research.
Disclaimer: The following tips do not constitute and are not a substitute for legal advice. We will always recommend consulting with an attorney for legal advice.
- Consider names with less common nouns. Avoid simple combinations because they almost certainly will be trademarked or protected already. Avoid names like "Fast Services", for example.
- Do the Google search. Do any organizations, anywhere, appear to use your name or a close variation? Avoid using it since names do not necessarily have to be registered or trademarked to be protected.
- Search your state business registration website to see if the name is available. Usually this is a Department of Revenue or Secretary of State site like this one for Tennessee.
- Search the USPTO trademark database. Make sure there will be no confusion between your name and a trademarked name.
- Be creative. Try mixing words from other languages to find the right brand message. Try more unique adjectives. When you are ready to launch your business or non-profit, contact us to get started with a solid bookkeeping plan.