A trademark protects your brand’s name, logo, slogan, or other identifiers—giving you exclusive rights to use them in your industry. Trademarking your business name is a smart move if you’re building a long-term brand and want to avoid copycats or legal conflicts.

Benefits of trademarking:

• Legal protection: You can sue for infringement if another business uses a similar name
• Brand exclusivity: Others can’t legally register or use your mark in the same category
• Stronger marketing identity: A registered trademark boosts credibility with customers and partners
• National (and sometimes international) recognition

Steps to register a trademark:

1. Search existing trademarks using a government database (e.g., USPTO in the U.S., EUIPO in Europe)
2. File an application online—detailing the mark, category (goods/services), and ownership
3. Pay the required fee (typically $250–$400 per class)
4. Wait for review and publication (can take 6–12 months)

Note: Just registering your business name with local authorities does not give you trademark protection. You need to apply separately at the federal level.

Once registered, monitor for infringement and use the ® symbol to signal legal protection.

Trademarking your name is more than paperwork—it’s about protecting the brand you’re building.