Trademark search for startups before you commit to a name
Short answer
Trademark search for startups checks a shortlist of names against official registries before you buy a domain or print packaging, then helps you file the winner and watch for copycats. The Founder plan covers this.
- Founder plan: 99 USD monthly or 49 USD per month billed yearly.
- Includes searches, 1 filing preparation per period and monitoring of up to 3 marks.
- You file in your own name and pay official fees directly to the office.
Why founders search before launch
Renaming after launch means a new domain, new packaging and lost search rankings. A short availability search on each candidate name shows the closest registered and pending marks and a registration likelihood, so you drop risky names early.
A typical founder workflow
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Step 1
Screen the shortlist
Run each candidate through the registries of the markets you plan to sell in and compare the scores.
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Step 2
Pick classes
Map what you sell to Nice classes with the class guide.
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Step 3
Prepare the filing
Your filing pack is assembled for the office you choose, ready to file in your name.
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Step 4
File and pay the office fee
You pay the official fee directly to the office; a partner attorney files where representation is required.
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Step 5
Watch for copycats
Monitoring alerts you to similar new filings before the opposition window closes.
Which plan fits a startup
Most early teams start on Founder. Move to Business once you hold several marks, need a portfolio view or want to run oppositions. All plans are on the pricing page, and how to trademark a name walks through the whole process.
Frequently asked questions
- When should a startup file a trademark?
- As soon as the name is chosen and before heavy spending on branding. In the US you can file on an intent to use basis before launch.
- Should the founder or the company own the mark?
- Usually the company, so the mark stays with the business if ownership changes or investors come in.
- Is a free domain a sign the name is free?
- No. Domain availability says nothing about trademark rights. Only a registry search shows earlier marks.
- Is the score legal advice?
- No. It is an estimate from public registry data. Read the disclaimer for the full picture.
Keep reading
General information as of 2026, not legal advice. Trademarking is not a law firm. Official fees are set by each office and paid to the office directly.