Learn how to protect your business identity through trademark registration. This guide explains key differences between copyright and trademark, and provides a step-by-step process for registering your business name with the USPTO to secure your brand legally.

Effective Strategies to Protect Your Business Name Trademark

Building a strong brand identity is essential for new companies in today’s competitive market. Your business name plays a key role in shaping your public perception and recognition.

If you're aiming to protect your company’s name, understanding the distinctions between "copyright" and "trademark" is important. You might ask, "How can I register my business name for legal protection?" Let’s clarify these concepts to guide your branding efforts.

Copyright vs. trademark

Copyright safeguards creative works such as music, writings, artwork, and images, not ideas or concepts. Therefore, your original slogan or product idea isn't covered under copyright unless it’s expressed in a fixed form.

When it comes to your business name, trademark registration is the proper legal route. Registering a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) ensures your brand is distinguished from others. The USPTO evaluates applications to prevent conflicts with existing trademarks.

Steps to register your business name as a trademark

Since copyright doesn’t apply to business names, here’s how to officially trademark your brand:

Perform a trademark search
Use the USPTO database to check for similar trademarks. This helps avoid potential legal disputes or rejection due to name similarity.

Submit your application
If your search results are clear, complete and submit your application online via the USPTO portal. Fees vary depending on the application type.

Consult with a trademark attorney
An attorney will review your submission, alert you to any issues, and guide you to ensure your application is successful before deadlines.