Choosing a business name - 2. Find out if a name is taken

From Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

2. Find out if a name is taken

In most cases, if someone is already using a name, you cannot legally use it. By law, the name of your business can't be the same as or very similar to an existing corporate name or trade-mark. Even when it is legal to use an existing business name, it can be a disastrous marketing mistake.

There are a few places you should check to see whether a name is taken.

Search the Internet

The easiest way to check if someone else is already using your proposed name is to search the Web. This will give you an idea of who else is using the same name or a similar name. You may also want to check whether the Internet domain name and social media handles you want to use are already taken. If you plan to do business in other countries, check whether anyone is using the name in those countries too.

Search National name databases

There are two national databases that each cover most of the jurisdictions you may want to search. Search one or both of these depending on where you want to set up.

Canadian corporate names (except Quebec) and trademarks database - Nuans

Search Canadian and provincial/territorial corporate names, as well as trademarks.

Search Canadian corporate names

Business Registry Search (Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec)

Use this free database to search for businesses that are registered (trade name) or incorporated provincially in the provinces of Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec, as well as federal corporations.

Search Business Registry

Consider checking trade names in other provinces and territories.

After searching the national databases, you may also wish to search trade names in other provinces and territories if you plan to do business there. Registering a trade name does not give a company exclusive rights to use that name. However, it may not be a good idea from a marketing perspective.

Use these links to search the provincial and territorial databases. Some are fee-based services and not all of them can be searched online.

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