How to Check Trademark Availability for Your Business Name

April 15, 2026 · 6 min read

Why trademark checks matter

A great name you can't legally use isn't a great name. Trademark conflicts can force costly rebrands months or years after launch — including throwing away domains, packaging, marketing assets, and brand equity.

The good news: a basic trademark check takes about 15 minutes and is free.

Step 1: Run a Google search

Search the exact name plus your industry. If a major company in a related space is already using it, stop and pick something else — even if their trademark isn't formally registered, "common law" rights may apply.

Step 2: Search the USPTO TESS database

The USPTO Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) is the official U.S. trademark database.

  • Use the Basic Word Mark Search.
  • Search exact matches and close variants (different spellings, plurals).
  • Pay attention to goods and services — trademarks are class-specific. Delta exists for both an airline and a faucet company because they're in different categories.

Step 3: Check international databases

If you'll do business globally, also search: - WIPO Global Brand Database — covers many countries. - EUIPO — European Union. - UKIPO — United Kingdom.

Step 4: Check the .com and social handles

A trademark you can register but a domain you can't get is a half-win. Check .com availability and the major social platforms (X, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube) before committing.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Only checking exact matches. Phonetic and visual similarities count.
  • Ignoring related industries. Courts consider whether consumers would be confused.
  • Skipping the international check. Easy to miss until you try to expand.
  • DIY filing for complex cases. For high-stakes brands, hire a trademark attorney.

When to hire a trademark lawyer

If your business is well-funded, operating in a crowded category, or planning international expansion — get a professional clearance search and filing. The cost is small relative to the cost of a forced rebrand.

Find a brandable, ownable name

Start with names that are designed to be trademarkable — short, distinctive, and not generic. Generate options with Namelytics and run them through the steps above.