Business Name Search in Minnesota | A Comprehensive Guide

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Conduct a Business Name Search in Minnesota

Conducting a business name search in Minnesota is an essential step for entrepreneurs and business owners in starting an LLC in Minnesota. A business name search helps you identify whether a desired business name is already in use or if it’s unique and available for registration. Additionally, it allows you to gather information on existing businesses, such as their registration details, legal status, and contact information.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you conduct a business name search in Minnesota. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Conduct a Business Name Search in Minnesota

What is a Business Name Search?

Business name search in Minnesota is an essential step for entrepreneurs who want to start a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This search helps them to ensure that the name they have chosen is unique, available, and compliant with state laws. The process of searching for a business name in Minnesota involves using the Minnesota business registration system, which allows users to search for registered business names and check for name availability.

Additionally, entrepreneurs also need to check that their chosen name does not infringe on any existing trademarks or copyrights. Conducting a thorough name search helps to prevent legal and branding issues as well as build a strong brand image. In Minnesota, taking the time to properly search for a business name or trademark can help entrepreneurs to set their businesses up for future success. We reviewed some of the Trademark Services in Minnesota that will help you with your business name search.

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How to Conduct a Business Name Search in Minnesota

Before knowing why a business name is necessary, you should now conduct a business name search in Minnesota. Even in any different business structure, conducting a business name search takes time. However, with the help of the information listed in this article, you will get an easier option in finalizing your business name.

Step 1: Access the Business Entity Search Tool

The Minnesota Secretary of State website has a Business Center Search Tool to help you choose a name for your business. This tool can help you determine the uniqueness and availability of a name. Also, keeping a list of backup names is helpful so you can choose a last name after a few repetitions. You can also check out the Minnesota Secretary of State Business Filings Online to access the entity search tool.

Step 2: Perform the Search

On the Minnesota website, check the availability of the proposed business name. The search result will display information about similar businesses if the desired business name is already used. While searching, you can exclude using identifiers such as “LLC” to get more results from different business structures operating under the same name. Conduct extensive research using the provided filters before filing the name with the government.

If you want to register a Trademark in Minnesota, you can also conduct a trademark search on the United States Trademark Database. Check with the Patent and Trademark Office to see if the chosen name is already in use by someone else.

Choosing a Business Name in Minnesota

You now conducted a business search in Minnesota. With what you have searched and listed, you will choose the most suitable business name for your Minnesota business. When searching for a potential business name, follow these steps:

  1. Brainstorm Ideas: Begin by brainstorming a list of potential names that convey your business’s goals and values, and appeal to your target audience. Consider names that are easy to pronounce, spell, and remember.
  2. Be Descriptive But Not Limiting: Choose a name that gives an idea of what your business does or offers without being too specific or limiting future growth. For example, avoid using a specific location or product type in the name if you plan to expand your business or diversify your offerings.
  3. Check for Availability: Use the Minnesota Secretary of State’s business name search tool available at the link provided to check if your desired name is already in use by another registered business entity. Remember that the name should be distinguishable from others to avoid potential legal disputes and confusion.
  4. Consider Domain Name Availability: If you plan to have an online presence, check if the desired domain name is available for your website. Ideally, your domain name should match or closely resemble your business name for consistency and easy online recognition.
  5. Conduct a Trademark Search: To avoid infringing on any existing trademarks or intellectual property rights, conduct a thorough trademark search using the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s (USPTO) Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS). This will help you identify any potential conflicts with registered or pending trademarks. You can access the Minnesota Trademark Search for more detailed information about trademark searches.
  6. Verify Name Requirements: Ensure your chosen name meets the specific naming requirements for your business type, such as including words like “LLC,” “Corp,” or “Ltd.,” if applicable. Refer to your Minnesota’s business naming guidelines for specific rules and restrictions.

By following these steps and considering the various factors in choosing a business name, you can create a distinct, memorable, and legally compliant name.

Meantime, In Minnesota, if you do not wish to file your business right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your business name for 1 year. You must file a name reservation application in the Minnesota Secretary of State by mail or online filing to keep the name.

The Minnesota Secretary of State will review your application and approve the name if it is available and not too similar to any other existing business name. If the name is approved, you will receive a reservation number and an approval letter. When filing the Articles of Organization in Minnesota, to form your LLC, you must include the reservation number.

After reserving an LLC name, you must still form the LLC by filing the Articles of Organization with the Minnesota Secretary of State. The LLC name, contact information, the names of the LLC’s members, and the name and address of the LLC’s Registered Agent must all be included in the Articles of Organization.

File your Articles of Organization online on the Minnesota Secretary of State Online Services page. You may also download the offline file of the name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to Minnesota Secretary of State – Minnesota Secretary of State — Business Services, Retirement Systems of Minnesota Building, 60 Empire Drive, Suite 100, St Paul, MN 55103.

If you are planning to start an LLC in Minnesota, make sure that you choose a business name that is suitable for your business. It is best to hire a legal expert or an LLC Services that will guide you through the process.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to File a DBA?

Filing Minnesota DBA (Doing Business As), a fictitious business name, trade name, or assumed name, allows you to operate your business under a different name than your legal name. The process for filing a DBA varies depending on the state or county of your business. You can select a unique and appropriate name for your business that complies with your Minnesota naming guidelines. Ensure the name is not misleading or confusingly similar to other businesses in your area. Afterward, you must search your Minnesota business name database to ensure another business does not already use your desired DBA name. Once you have confirmed the availability of your desired name, you will need to register your DBA with the appropriate Minnesota Secretary of State. 

The registration process typically involves completing an application form, providing the required information about your business, and paying a filing fee. The required information may include your legal business name, address, ownership structure, and the desired DBA name. Minnesota requires you to publish a notice of your DBA registration in a local newspaper to inform the public about your new business name. After the notice has been published for the required time, you may need to provide proof of publication to the Minnesota Secretary of State where you registered your DBA.

In Minnesota, there are three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing, which costs around $50 for online filing and $30 for offline filing.

After registering your DBA, update your business records, marketing materials, contracts, and other documents to reflect your new business name. Don’t forget to consult your state or county’s specific DBA filing process, as requirements and procedures may vary.

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Importance of Business Name Search in Minnesota

Before researching how to conduct Minnesota business name search, you must know why having a business name is important. 

A business name is important for several reasons:

  • Legal Identity: The business name is the official legal identity of your Minnesota LLC, which distinguishes it from other businesses. It is a requirement when registering your Minnesota LLC with the Minnesota Secretary of State. This legal identity allows your Minnesota LLC to enter into contracts, open bank accounts, and engage in business activities under its own name.
  • Liability Protection: One of the primary purposes of forming an LLC is to separate the business’s liabilities from its owners’ personal assets. A distinct business name helps establish this separation, reinforcing the limited liability protection the Minnesota LLC structure provides.
  • Brand Identity and Recognition: A unique and memorable business name is crucial for building a strong brand identity and presence in the market. It helps customers recognize and remember your products or services and differentiate your Minnesota LLC from competitors.
  • Legal Compliance: When registering an LLC, you must ensure that another registered entity within your jurisdiction does not already use the business name. Choosing a unique and available name is essential for legal compliance and avoiding potential disputes with other businesses.
  • Professionalism and Credibility: A well-chosen business name can convey professionalism and credibility, boosting customer trust and confidence in your products or services. An unprofessional or confusing name, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect and deter potential customers.
  • Marketing and Advertising: Your Minnesota LLC’s business name plays a significant role in your marketing and advertising efforts. A catchy, memorable name can make your advertising campaigns more effective and increase the likelihood of word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Online Presence and SEO: A chosen business name can improve your Minnesota LLC’s online presence and help customers find you more easily through search engines. A strategic business name can contribute to better online visibility and higher search rankings by incorporating relevant keywords and optimizing your website for search.

The importance of a business name search lies in ensuring its uniqueness and legal compliance and avoiding potential conflicts with other businesses. This process helps to establish a distinctive brand identity, protect intellectual property rights, and maintain a professional reputation in the market.

Is it Possible for Two Businesses to Have the Same Name?

Under certain conditions, two businesses that do not compete with each other may share the same name. However, you may be trying to impose on the trademark of the other competing business if either of the following occurs:

  • The company operates in the same geographical area, or
  • The company name is federally registered.

Furthermore, suppose a company name is considered famous or well-known, for example, Dior or Chanel. In that case, it has broader protection, and no other business, regardless of industry or location, can usually use the mark.

It’s best to avoid using another company’s name to avoid future legal issues. 

Can I Sell or Buy Someone Else’s Trademark?

Before selling your trademark, you must incorporate it into a business. A trademark cannot be sold if it is only registered as a placeholder for future use. The trademark must be visible on all products you sell.

You can buy another person’s trademark (known as “trademark assignment”), but the process is legally complex and costly. To purchase an existing trademark, you must purchase all company assets, product lines, or the entire business associated with the trademark.

What Should I Do If My Desired Business Name Is Already In Use?

If your desired business name is already in use, consider modifying it to make it unique and distinguishable from the existing business. You can also explore alternative names that still convey the essence of your business and comply with state naming requirements.

What Should I Do After Finding an Available Business Name?

After finding an available business name, you can proceed with the necessary steps to register your business with Minnesota Secretary of State office. This may include filing formation documents, such as Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation, and paying the required filing fees. Additionally, consider registering your business name as a trademark to protect your brand and prevent others from using a confusingly similar name.

FAQs

What is the purpose of conducting a business name search in Minnesota?
The purpose of conducting a business name search in Minnesota is to see if a particular name is available for use for a new business entity.
Do I have to conduct a business name search in Minnesota before I can use a business name?
It is not required by law to conduct a business name search in Minnesota before using a business name, but it is highly recommended to ensure that no one else is using the same name.
How can I access the business name database in Minnesota?
You can access Minnesota’s business name database through the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
Is there a fee for searching the business name database in Minnesota?
No, there is no fee required for searching the business name database in Minnesota.
How many business names can I search at once in Minnesota?
There is a limit of 100 business names that can be searched at once in Minnesota.
Can I reserve a business name in Minnesota?
Yes, you can reserve a business name for up to 12 months by filing a Name Reservation form with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
How long does it take to conduct a business name search in Minnesota?
It usually takes just a few minutes to complete a business name search in Minnesota.
Can I search for a business name by location in Minnesota?
You can search for a business name by location, category, or name in Minnesota.
Can I use a DBA name instead of my legal business name in Minnesota?
Yes, you can use a DBA name in Minnesota, but it must be registered with the Secretary of State.
Is a national trademark search the same as a business name search in Minnesota?
No, a national trademark search searches for potential conflicts across all 50 states, while a business name search only searches within Minnesota.
What happens if I use a business name that is already being used by another business in Minnesota?
If you use a business name that is already being used by another business in Minnesota, you may be sued for trademark infringement.
Can I set up a business entity with two different business names under it in Minnesota?
Yes, you can set up a business entity with multiple business names in Minnesota by filing a Name Registration form for each name.
How can I check if a business name is trademarked in Minnesota?
You can check if a business name is trademarked in Minnesota through the United States Patent and Trademark Office website.
Can I check the availability of a business name by phone or mail in Minnesota?
No, all business name searches must be conducted online via the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
What kind of businesses require a different business name in Minnesota?
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and corporations require a unique and distinguishable business name in Minnesota.
Can I change my business name after I have registered it in Minnesota?
Yes, you can change your business name in Minnesota by filing a name change form with the Secretary of State.
What is a business name reservation in Minnesota?
A business name reservation is when you reserve a business name for a limited period of time to ensure it is available before you finalize your business registration.
Can a sole proprietor use a business name in Minnesota?
Yes, a sole proprietor can use a business name in Minnesota, but they are not required to register the business name.
Are there any restrictions on what I can name my business in Minnesota?
Yes, there are restricted words and phrases that cannot be used in a business name in Minnesota, such as those that falsely imply connection with a government agency.
Do I have to secure a domain name for my business name in Minnesota?
No, you are not required to secure a domain name for your business name in Minnesota, but it is recommended to have an online presence.
What are the consequences of using a business name that is already registered in Minnesota?
Using a business name that is already registered in Minnesota can lead to legal troubles, such as having to pay damages to the other business for infringing on their name.
Can I register my business name in a DBA form in Minnesota?
Yes, you can register your business name in a DBA form in Minnesota by filing a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Secretary of State.
How do I know if a business name search is necessary in Minnesota?
A business name search is necessary in Minnesota if you plan on starting a new business or renaming an existing entity.
How long is a business name reservation valid in Minnesota?
A business name reservation in Minnesota is valid for 12 months, after which it can be renewed.
Do sole proprietorships and partnerships need to register their business name in Minnesota?
Sole proprietorships and partnerships are not required to register their business name in Minnesota.
Can I trademark my business name in Minnesota?
Yes, you can trademark your business name in Minnesota by filing a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
How can I check the availability of a business name in all 50 states, including Minnesota?
You can check the availability of a business name in all 50 states by performing a national name search through the United States Patent and Trademark Office website.
Can I search for a business name in Minnesota if I am not a permanent resident there?
Yes, you can search for a business name in Minnesota regardless of your residency status.
How do I conduct a business name search in Minnesota?
You can conduct a business name search through the Minnesota Secretary of State business search portal.
Is there a fee for using the Minnesota business search portal?
No, the business search portal is free to use.
Can anyone perform a business name search in Minnesota?
Yes, anyone can perform a business name search in Minnesota using the search portal.
How long does it take to get search results back?
Search results can generally be obtained instantly through the online search portal.
Can I search for unavailable business names on the search portal?
Yes, you can search for unavailable business names on the search portal, but they will not appear in search results.
How do I know if a name is available for my business?
If your desired name does not appear in the search results, it is likely available for your business.
Can I search for previous business names on the portal?
Yes, you can search for previous business names on the search portal.
Can I search for foreign businesses on the portal?
Yes, you can search for foreign businesses on the search portal.
Will expired business registrations appear in search results?
Yes, expired business registrations may still appear in search results.
Can I use the name of a dissolved business?
You may be able to use the name of a dissolved business if it has been inactive for at least five years.
Can I do a national name search on the Minnesota business search portal?
No, the search portal only provides results for businesses registered in Minnesota.
How do I make sure my business name is not infringing on any trademarks?
The Minnesota Secretary of State offers registration information, but you may also want to consult a trademark attorney.
Can I change my business name after registering with the state of Minnesota?
Yes, you may change your business name after registering with the state of Minnesota.
Do I have to register my assumed name?
Yes, in Minnesota, you must register an assumed name if your business will be operating under a name other than your legal name.
Can I reserve a business name before registering my business?
Yes, you can reserve a business name for 12 months before registering your business.
Does registering with the Minnesota Secretary of State automatically give me a trademark?
No, registering with the Minnesota Secretary of State does not automatically give you a trademark.
Can I search for unavailable trademarks on the search portal?
No, the search portal only provides results for currently registered trademarks.
Can I use a name similar to another business?
You may be able to use a similar name to another business, as long as it is not causing confusion in the marketplace.
How long does a business name registration last in Minnesota?
A business name registration lasts for 10 years in Minnesota.
Can I renew my business name registration online?
Yes, you can renew your business name registration online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website.
Can I register more than one business name at a time?
Yes, you can register multiple business names at once for an additional fee.
Why do I need to register my business name?
Registering your business name protects it from being used by other businesses and allows you to use it for marketing purposes.
Can I register my business name the same day I start my business?
Yes, you can register your business name the same day you start your business in Minnesota.
How long does it take for my business name registration to become effective?
Your business name registration goes into effect as soon as it is processed by the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Can I change my business name through the Minnesota Secretary of State?
Yes, you can change your business name through the Minnesota Secretary of State by filing the appropriate forms.
How much does it cost to register a business name in Minnesota?
Registering a business name in Minnesota typically costs $50 per name.
Can I register my business name through the mail?
Yes, you can register your business name through the mail by filling out and submitting the appropriate forms.
How often should I check to see if my business name is in use by other businesses?
It is a good idea to periodically check that your business name is not being used by other businesses.

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Conclusion

Conducting Minnesota business name search is essential for entrepreneurs and business owners in establishing a unique and legally compliant business identity. This process not only helps to avoid potential legal disputes and ensure compliance with state regulations but also plays a critical role in building a strong brand presence in the market. By utilizing the available resources, tools, and guidelines provided by the relevant state or county agencies, business owners can effectively choose and register a business name that stands out from the competition, resonates with the target audience, and contributes to long-term business success.

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