Business Names - How to Name a Business 1-2-3
The business name you choose for your business is important. It explains who you are, shows how you
differentiate yourself from the marketplace and determines how the public perceives you. You want to choose the
right business name the first time around, so you can avoid the hassle and expense of changing it later.
Choose a name that has special meaning to your target market. How can you decribe your company's benefits or
personality traits that your potential customers will understand? Try to avoid being "cute", as you may not
convey the business image you would like. You also don't want to confuse customers.
Use words that explain what you do clearly and concisely. If you think you may expand your business in the
future to cover additional products or services, consider this when naming your business. You don't want to
limit yourself.
Also think about the appearance of your business name. Is it catchy and memorable? Is it too long to fit on
business cards? Viewing sample logos online can
give you lots of ideas of what other businesses have come up with - what gets your attention? What business
names do you like or dislike?
Once you have chosen your business name, you need to check with your city to make sure the business name
is not already being used, and then you want to register it with your city or county. Here's how:
- Register Your Business Name
Also known as a fictitious business name or "DBA" (Doing Business As). If you operate your business by a
name other than your personal name, you'll need to register your business name with the state. Depending on
the state in which you live, you generally do this through your city or county clerk's office. Each state
has it's own requirements, some not requiring registration, so check with your local government office.
More Information
- How to Get a Business License
General business licenses are usually required of all businesses, even home-based internet businesses. You
obtain a business license through your local city or county government office, and requirements vary by
state, so you want to check with your own local office to get instructions.
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How to Apply for a Federal
Tax ID Number
You get a Federal Tax ID Number, or Employer ID Number (EIN), from the IRS. You can apply through their
website, by phone, fax or mail. For fastest service, apply online. It can take up to five weeks to get
your EIN if you apply by mail.
The EIN you receive is your permanent number and can be used for business tasks such as opening a
business bank account, applying for a business license or filing a tax return.
If you don't know if you need a Federal Tax ID Number for your business, answer these questions. If you already have a Tax ID Number, but have misplaced
it, you can call the Business and Specialty Tax Line at (800) 829-4933 and have them look it up for
you.
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