DOWNLOAD THE HOW TO PROTECT YOUR BRAND IN 24 HOURS PDF HERE
Step 1: Check If Your Business Name Is Available (Time Needed: 30 Minutes)
Before you buy a domain or post on social media, make sure your name is legally available.
- Narrow your ideas to one primary name and two backups.
- Search your state’s business registry. Type “[Your State] Secretary of State Business Registry” into Google and click on the official
.govlink. - For extra assurance, run a trademark search on the USPTO TESS Tool to check for any conflicts.
What if your favorite name is taken?
Think about brands like Delta—used by airlines, dental companies, and faucet makers. If your business operates in a completely different industry, it might still be usable. When in doubt, consult a legal professional to avoid future issues.
Cost: Free
Step 2: Secure Your Domain Name
(Time Needed: 1 Hour)
Once your name is clear, lock down the domain—especially the .com version for SEO strength.
- Use your chosen name and 1–2 alternatives.
- Purchase the domain (but wait to buy hosting until you are ready to build).
- Use modifiers like “the,” industry-specific words, or abbreviations like “co” or “mgmt” if your name is unavailable.
- Recommended registrars: GoDaddy, Bluehost, and Hostinger. Expect to pay $0–$20 for your first year.
Reminder: You do not need hosting yet—just secure the name.
Cost: Free
Step 3: Reserve All Social Media Handles
(Time Needed: 2 Hours)
Whether you plan to use every platform or not, secure your name across all major social networks now.
- Create accounts using your brand name on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.
- You can skip uploading profile photos or bios for now. Just save the handle so no one else takes it.
- Use tools like Namecheckr or Namechk to check availability quickly.
Pro tip: Protecting your name now avoids future issues with impersonators or unavailable handles when you’re ready to scale.
Cost: Free
Step 4: File Your Business and Get an EIN
(Time Needed: 3 Hours)
Make it official. Filing your business and obtaining an EIN sets the foundation for operating legally and professionally.
- Go to your state’s Secretary of State website (make sure it ends in
.gov) to register your business. - Apply for an EIN for free through IRS.gov. This is required for taxes, opening business bank accounts, and hiring.
- Not sure how to file? Consider using trusted services like LegalZoom or ZenBusiness for guided assistance.
Cost: $250–$1,200 depending on filing method and state.
