One of the earliest and most crucial steps in starting a business is choosing the right name. But before printing business cards or creating a logo, you must ask a vital legal question: “Is my business name available?”
As lawyers often caution: a great name without legal clearance can lead to rejection, penalties, or even costly disputes. Here’s how to properly check if your business name is available in the Philippines.
1. Why Checking Availability Matters
Business name availability is not just about creativity—it is about legal rights. Registering a name already taken by another entity can result in:
Rejection of your application by the DTI or SEC,
Trademark infringement issues, and
Lost time and resources on branding that cannot be used.
👉 Legal Note: A registered business name does not automatically grant trademark rights. These are secured separately through the Intellectual Property Office (IPO).
2. Where to Check for Availability
a. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Sole Proprietorships
DTI requires all sole proprietors to register their business names. Availability can be checked through the DTI Business Name Registration System (BNRS) online portal.
Steps:
Visit the DTI BNRS website.
Use the “Business Name Search” tool.
Enter your proposed name to see if it’s available.
b. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – Partnerships and Corporations
SEC handles name registration for corporations and partnerships. They have a Name Verification System that allows applicants to check and reserve names.
Steps:
Visit the SEC Name Verification System.
Enter your desired name.
Reserve it if available (valid for 30 days, extendable).
c. Intellectual Property Office (IPO) – Trademarks
If you want to protect your brand identity beyond registration, check the IPO Trademark Database. A name may be available with the DTI or SEC but already trademarked by another entity.
3. Tips for a Successful Business Name Search
Be Unique: Avoid generic names such as “Best Trading” or “General Enterprises.” These are often rejected.
Avoid Restricted Words: Terms like “Corporation,” “Bank,” or “Foundation” require specific licenses or approvals.
Prepare Alternatives: Always have 2–3 backup names ready in case your first choice is unavailable.
Think Long-Term: Choose a name that fits your business today and your vision for growth tomorrow.
4. What If Your Name Is Taken?
If your preferred business name is already registered, you have two options:
Modify the name slightly while keeping its essence (e.g., adding a geographic or descriptive term).
Brainstorm a completely new, original name that avoids potential legal conflicts.
👉 Legal Advice: Avoid “copycat names” that closely resemble existing businesses. This could expose you to trademark disputes.
Final Thoughts
Checking if your business name is available is more than a technicality—it is a legal safeguard. By conducting proper searches with the DTI, SEC, and IPO, you protect your brand, save time, and avoid costly disputes.
As lawyers often say: “The law protects the first to register, not the first to use.” Secure your name properly, and you can build your business with confidence.
📑 Pro Tip: For stronger protection, register your business name with the DTI or SEC and apply for trademark registration with the IPO.
Navigating the business landscape in the Philippines can be both rewarding and intricate. Whether you’re embarking on a new venture or scaling up, ensuring that your corporate endeavors are in line with local regulations is paramount.
At CBOS Business Solutions Inc., we pride ourselves on simplifying these processes for our clients. As a seasoned professional services company, we offer comprehensive assistance with SEC Registration, Visa processing, and a myriad of other essential business requirements. Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that your business is compliant, well-established, and ready to thrive in the Philippine market.
Why venture into the complexities of business registration and compliance alone? Allow our team to guide you every step of the way. After all, your success is our commitment.
Get in touch today and let us be your partner in achieving your business goals in the Philippines.
Email Address: gerald.bernardo@cbos.com.ph
Mobile No.: +639270032851
You can also click this link to schedule a meeting.
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