The Ultimate Guide to Checking Your Business Name is available.
Congratulations on finding the ideal business name! It’s catchy and creative nature truly captures your brand’s vision. Let’s address an important question – is it safe to use? It could be pretty costly to discover that someone else has already claimed that perfect name after you launch your business. However, there’s no need to worry because we are here to support you. Today we present your reliable road map – the ultimate checklist to ensure your business name is ready for action!
Step 1:
Check the names available at Companies House
Companies House is the official UK government website for registered companies. Even if you plan to register as a Sole Trader it’s still very important to check. There may be scenarios where registration at Companies House becomes necessary later.
If your preferred name is already taken, don’t panic. There are often simple ways to create a distinctive alternative while keeping your brand recognisable. Our guide on how to adapt a company name explains the best approaches without losing your identity.
Step 2:
To protect your brand identity, it’s crucial to ensure that your desired name is not trademarked.
Visit the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) and search their trademark database to avoid any legal complications down the line.
Not every business name needs to be trademarked, but for many businesses it can provide valuable protection as they grow. If you’re unsure whether it’s worthwhile, our guide Should I Trademark My Business Name? explains when trademark protection makes sense and when it may not be necessary.
Step 3:
Search for Available Domain Names
Having a professional email address and website is vital for any business today. Before finalising your chosen business name check that the matching domain name is still available.
Your domain is often the first impression customers have of your business, so ideally it should closely match your company name. If you’re unsure what makes a good domain, our checklist for choosing a domain name for your small business covers everything you should consider before registering one.
Step 4:
Conduct a Google Search
To ensure uniqueness in the market. Conduct a quick search on Google using your chosen business name.
Look for existing businesses, products or organisations using the same or a very similar name. Even if the name is technically available, a strong existing online presence could create confusion for potential customers.
Step 5:
Social Media Handles
Check existing usernames (handles) on social media: they usually start with “@”, for example we use “@duportUK” on Facebook, Instagram etc. Here’s a list of the main ones but remember there may be others more specific to your industry.
The main channels to check are:
YouTube
Snapchat
TikTok
Sorting and recording your findings.
As you work through each step, keep a record of:
- Existing businesses with similar names
- Website addresses (URLs)
- Social media handles
- Trademark results
Having everything in one place makes it much easier to compare your options and decide whether you need to make any adjustments to your chosen name.
Here’s a guide to help you do that
Your name is free. Now what?
It stays free until somebody else registers it. There is no waiting list, no reservation queue, and no first refusal. Whoever registers it first owns it.
If your business name is important to you, it’s worth protecting it before someone else takes it. Our guide on how to protect your business name explains the different options available and how to decide which is right for your business.
If you’re ready to secure your name, Duport can reserve it on your behalf, keep your personal details off the public record and complete the annual renewal filing. The service costs £149 for the first year, then £85.99 per year thereafter.
Or start with the free business name check and we will tell you where your name stands, usually within one working day.
