Negotiate a licensing agreement to use the name while the original owner retains ownership, which may involve royalty payments. Key Considerations Register your business | U.S. Small Business Administration
If you are a sole proprietor or need to operate under a name different from your legal entity name, you file a "fictitious name" or DBA with the state, county, or municipality. how do you buy a business name
If you are not ready to file, you can pay a fee to reserve the name for a specific period. Negotiate a licensing agreement to use the name
Here is a report on how to purchase or secure a business name in the US as of 2026. 1. Identify Your Legal Naming Strategy If you are not ready to file, you
Contact the owner directly and offer to buy the rights to the name, ensuring the transfer is documented with the Secretary of State.
If you form an LLC or corporation, the name is secured through the state upon formation.
Check the Secretary of State website in your state, the USPTO database for federal trademarks, and available domain names/social media handles.