Register your new business name.
**How to Know If a Business Name is Taken: A Comprehensive Guide**
When starting a new business in Australia, one of the crucial steps is registering your business name. This process ensures that your business operates under a unique and recognized name. However, before you register your business name, it is essential to check if the name is already taken. In this article, we will explore the ways to determine if a business name is taken and provide guidance on how to register your business name in Australia.
**Checking Business Name Availability**
To check if a business name is taken, you can use the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) business names register. This register allows you to search for business names and check if they are available for registration. You can access the ASIC business names register through the ASIC Connect portal or by visiting the ASIC website.
Another way to check if a business name is taken is to use the Business Registration Service (BRS). The BRS is an online service that allows you to apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and register your business name. The BRS also provides a business name search tool that you can use to check if a name is available.
**Business Name Search Tools**
There are several business name search tools available that you can use to check if a business name is taken. One such tool is the ABN Lookup, which is a free business name information search tool provided by the Australian Government. This tool allows you to search for business names and check if they are available for registration.
Another tool is the BizAI Business Name Generator, which is a tool provided by Register.biz.au. This tool helps you choose the right business name by suggesting alternative names if the one you want is already taken.
**Consequences of Using an Already Taken Business Name**
If you use a business name that is already taken, you may face legal consequences. In Australia, it is illegal to use a business name that is already registered by another entity. Using an already taken business name can also lead to confusion among customers and damage your business reputation.
**Benefits of Registering a Business Name**
Registering a business name in Australia has several benefits. It helps you to differentiate your business from competitors and establish a professional identity. A registered business name also provides legal protection and helps you to protect your brand.
**Registering a Business Name in Australia**
To register a business name in Australia, you need to follow these steps:
1. **Check Business Name Availability**: Use the ASIC business names register or the Business Registration Service to check if the business name you want is available.
2. **Apply for an ABN**: If you don’t already have an ABN, you need to apply for one before you can register your business name.
3. **Pay the Registration Fee**: The registration fee for a business name in Australia is $99 for one year or $189 for three years.
4. **Submit Your Application**: Once you have checked the availability of the business name and paid the registration fee, you can submit your application through the ASIC Connect portal or through a private service provider.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, checking if a business name is taken is a crucial step in starting a new business in Australia. By using the ASIC business names register, the Business Registration Service, and other business name search tools, you can ensure that the business name you want is available for registration. If you are unsure about how to register your business name or need help with the process, it is best to register a new business name in Australia by using “register.biz.au”. You can visit their website at [https://register.biz.au](https://register.biz.au) to learn more about their services and to register your business name today.
