A first look for conflicts before you invest in a name. Useful, and not the same as legal clearance.
1. What it is
A trademark search looks for existing names that are the same as or similar to yours, used for related goods or services. A database search is a first look; the USPTO notes that a full clearance can involve many sources and can be complex.
2. Why it matters
Finding a conflict before you print, build and advertise is far cheaper than a forced rename later.
3. Where to look
- The USPTO trademark search system for federal applications and registrations.
- Your state's trademark records, web search, app stores and social platforms for unregistered use.
4. How to do it
- Work out which goods or services you offer and their trademark class.
- Search the exact name, then close spellings, sound-alikes and translations, in the USPTO system.
- Search the web and social platforms for businesses using similar names for similar things.
- Write down anything close, with a link and date. Do not treat a clean search as permission.
5. Official sources
- Search existing trademarks (USPTO) ↗. Free. Search the exact name and close spellings before you build on it.
- Federal trademark searching (USPTO) ↗
- Find your trademark class (USPTO ID Manual) ↗. Every filing names the goods or services it covers. Search what you sell to find the class number.
- Why hire a trademark attorney (USPTO) ↗
6. Record what you found
Keep a note of where each of these lives:
- Date of the search and what you searched
- Any close matches with links
- An attorney's clearance opinion, if you get one
In Brand Axis this becomes a step on your launch map: you record where the proof lives, mark how it was checked, and get a reminder when it needs checking again.
7. Check it
Mark it done once you have seen the record yourself. It counts as verified when the record is an official one, and as professionally reviewed when someone qualified has checked it. When to get help: A trademark attorney for a clearance opinion before you file or invest heavily.
8. Where it gets used
The search result is recorded against the name decision in Naming, and flags whether to get professional clearance before launch.
9. When to check again
Search again before any large spend on the name, and before filing an application.
General information for US businesses, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules differ by state and change over time. Check the official source, and ask a qualified professional about your situation. Scope: United States (federal), plus your state's records. Last reviewed 2026-09-19 by AxisAlign editorial.