{"id":5146,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:57","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/chronology-choosing-a-business-name.html"},"modified":"2024-05-22T01:40:02","modified_gmt":"2024-05-22T06:40:02","slug":"chronology-choosing-a-business-name","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/chronology-choosing-a-business-name.html","title":{"rendered":"Ten Steps for Choosing a Business Name"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n \n
\n

7 Steps for Choosing a Business Name<\/h1>\n
\n
\n By FindLaw Staff<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Robert Rafii, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last reviewed\n
\n

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from affiliate partner links on FindLaw. Commissions do not affect the editorial integrity of our legal content.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n \n

\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

Choosing a business name is not something you want to rush into. The name of your business will become an important part of your brand and identity.<\/p>\r\n

If it’s too clever or unique, you run the risk of causing confusion<\/a> with your target market. But you also don’t want a name that is too generic, since it won’t stand out enough for customers to remember. It can seem a little overwhelming at first, which is why it’s important to take it one step at a time. The following list will help you get better organized as you search for the perfect name.<\/p>\r\n

The step-by-step guide below is meant to help entrepreneurs\/new business owners as they go through the steps of naming and incorporating a startup.<\/p>\r\n

Form your LLC with confidence.\u202fOur trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $0 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n

A 7-Step Checklist for Choosing a Business Name<\/h2>\r\n
    \r\n
  1. Compile a list of names that you like and are relevant to your small business. Consider brainstorming with friends and colleagues, or using a business name generator to get started.<\/li>\r\n
  2. Will your business name become an acronym, or might your name be shortened to an abbreviation? During the naming process, test both the full company name and any shortened version with your friends, family members, and others.<\/li>\r\n
  3. Avoid names that: