Registering a Business Name

[WigWag Workshop]

Good Day Folks!

How does one go about registering a business name? I came up with a name, registered the domain, but was wondering if any knows, what is the process to register the name has a business to protect it from being used by someone else? At this time, I don't plan on selling any of my works, but it might be a possibility in the future. Is this even necessary? I see a lot of posts talking about selling at craft shows and on Etsy, did you just pick a name and use it, or did you register it has a trademark?

Thanks in Advance,

Steven

[Judy Hunter]

I just picked a name.  to register it takes some doing I am thinking.  Like trade mark etc.  then you have to be willing to press charges and stick to it if you find someone using it.  Just be suretheybwerenm't using it before you trademarked yours.

[towdude3]

county recorders office can handle that for you. Just take them your ID and the name and they should take care of the rest
(after you pay them of course).

[chief]

Depending on state laws you will want to incorpporate so you cannot be sued personally.  The laws are different from state to state.  In CA even if you incorporate you can perosnally be sued as well.  I know it sounds crazy, but nowadays people will do anything to make a buck.

[julief]

The county tax office is the place to start.  You need a DBA (doing business as).  That is your registered name.  It makes it exclusively your in the county but if I remember right, there is a national registry also available.  You do a search there that makes sure the name is not registered to someone else, pay a small fee and its yours.  Then you are posted on the national list so no one else can use it.

[crusty59]

Hi, I have owned many businesses. All I can say is, if you are not really planning on selling anything, why create a legal business. It becomes very involved with legalities, taxes. Expenses will go up if you register phones ina business name.I just don't think its worth  the trouble. I even sell a few pieces, but usually to friends and family. If I had to worry about taxes etc. It just wouldn't pat to make anything. If you plan on designing and selling, thats a different story