Teach Soap

Can anyone suggest a place I need to check to see if the name I would like for my soap biz has already been taken or not? Thank you.

In Australia we have a website for ABN (australian business numbers) and also a ABR Australian business register, try googling your countries tax number name or go to a government website maybe

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Stacey - Victoria,Australia.
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If you are in the US, try here. http://www.uspto.gov/

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Irena
Closed minds are like faulty parachutes; they refuse to open.

Thank you. I am looking into all kinds of different things. One thing about the internet, there are LOTS of things you can find but its just knowing the right one to pick thats the key. I did call my Sec of State and that seems to be the place to go for a few of the things I need to be "legal".

Its really crazy. You wouldn't think that just selling a few bars of soaps here and there would require so many licenses, insurance or trademarks, etc. But I sure would hate to use a name someone already has or even worse.....have someone break out from a soap I sold them. I am getting it together though.

Soapbuddy- Thanks. I have been on that site today and even though it did not look like I was in the right area, I think I did find out my name is not taken so that is a good sign. I do have to call the Sec of State tomorrow. I appreciate your help.

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JKM Creative Enterprises

Hi. Here is the info I used. It includes some NC info but it should be a place to start and get info for everywhere I believe. I hope this helps. If I come across something more I will post it to you too. I do know you go to the uspto web site for sure and type in your name and see if it says anything about it.

-How do I apply for a trademark?

First, be aware that one can have trademarks at both the state and federal level. For all questions regarding state patents, please refer them to the Department of the Secretary of the State of North Carolina. Their web site is at http://www.secretary.state.nc.us/trademrk

When you wish to obtain a trademark, you should first start by searching the TESS database either on the USPTO web site or at the DH Hill Library at North Carolina State University. You might wish to then consult a patent and trademark attorney. Here is USPTO directory of Patent Attorneys and Agents registered to practice in the state of North Carolina. Finally, you will need to apply for a trademark with the USPTO. You can do this online with the TEAS system at http://www.uspto.gov/teas/print/welcome.htm

-How can I search for trademarks?

This web site has trademark searching resources and tutorials available at http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/ptdl/trademarks/searching.html