Found a name you love? Before you start building your brand, you need to verify it's actually available. Here's the complete checklist.
1. Domain Name
Check if the .com (and .co, .io) are available. A great business name with no domain is a non-starter. Use our generator for instant domain checks.
2. USPTO Trademark Search
Search the USPTO trademark database. If someone has trademarked the name in your industry, you can't use it — even if the domain is available.
3. State Business Registry
Each state has a business name database. Search your state's Secretary of State website. You need to register your business name, and it can't be identical (or confusingly similar) to an existing one.
4. Social Media Handles
Check Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, TikTok, and LinkedIn. Consistent handles across platforms build brand recognition. Tools like Namechk.com check all platforms at once.
5. Google Search
Simply Google the name. Check if another business dominates the results. Even if they're in a different industry, sharing a name causes confusion.
6. App Stores
If you plan to build an app, check if the name is taken in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Quick Checklist
- Domain (.com) available?
- No USPTO trademark conflict?
- State business registry clear?
- Social media handles available?
- Google results clear?
- No similar competitor names?
All clear? Register the domain immediately — good names get taken fast.