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How to Perform a Business Name Search in Minnesota: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Doola

Published on 28 Aug 2024 2 min read

Conducting a thorough search for a business name in Minnesota is crucial for ensuring that the name you choose is unique and does not infringe on any existing trademarks or business identities. This process helps avoid potential legal disputes and brand confusion, which can be costly and damaging to your reputation. It also allows you to benefit from a distinct brand presence in a competitive market, aiding in effective marketing and customer recognition. Moreover, verifying the availability of a business name with state registries is a required step in the legal formation and registration of your business in Minnesota.

Understanding Minnesota’s Business Name Requirements

When starting a business in Minnesota, it’s crucial to understand the state’s specific business naming requirements. The name must be distinguishable from other business names registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State. It should not mislead the public and must comply with state regulations regarding particular words and phrases. Ensuring your business name meets these requirements will prevent future legal issues and provide a solid foundation for your brand.

Accessing the Minnesota Secretary of State Website

To conduct a business name search in Minnesota, you’ll need to visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website. You can navigate to the relevant section by clicking here. This website provides a user-friendly interface for searching existing business names and ensures your desired name is unique and complies with state regulations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting a Business Name Search

1. Visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s business search page: Minnesota SOS Business Search.
2. Enter your desired business name in the search bar.
3. Review the search results to see if your desired name is already taken or too similar to existing names.
4. If the name is unique and meets state requirements, you can proceed with registering the business name.

What to Do If Your Desired Business Name is Taken

If your desired business name is already taken, don’t worry! You can get creative and brainstorm variations or entirely new names. Check out some LLC name ideas for inspiration. Additionally, consider using a different identifier or altering the spelling slightly while ensuring it remains unique and professional. Another option is to use a different business structure name, such as a DBA (“doing business as”) name.

Registering Your Business Name: Next Steps

Once you’ve settled on a unique business name, it’s time to register it with the state of Minnesota. You can visit the doola business formation page for assistance. Doola can handle the paperwork and ensure everything is filed correctly with the state. They also offer comprehensive packages that help you with other aspects of business formation, including obtaining an EIN, setting up bookkeeping, and understanding tax obligations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Name Search

When conducting a business name search, it’s easy to make mistakes that could delay your registration process. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not checking for similar names: Ensure that your desired name is not only unique but also significantly different from existing names to avoid confusion.
• Ignoring trademark issues: Conduct a trademark search to ensure your business name doesn’t infringe on any existing trademarks.
• Skipping domain checks: Verify that the website domain for your business name is available. This will be important for your online presence.

Check for a domain name to register a website for your business

In today’s digital age, having a website is crucial for your business’s success. To check for a domain name, you can use a service like GoDaddy. Check for a domain name that matches your business name to ensure brand consistency and establish an online presence right from the start.

Conclusion: Ensuring a Smooth Business Registration Process in Minnesota

Registering your business name in Minnesota is a critical step in establishing your enterprise. Following the steps outlined in this guide will help ensure a smooth process. Remember, doola can help with the registration process and offer various products to help you quickly start your business, including bookkeeping, tax help, a community, and required state and federal compliance filings.