What is the difference between a DBA and trademark?

Question

im starting a business and i need to know if i should get just a DBA or a DBA and my business trademarked also.

any information would really help, thanks!

Answer 1

Yes, someone could still Trademark your name if you have not applied previously for a trademark, or have already registered said Trademark.

A  DBA designation   is the "doing business as" type of business structure.  It is only, and provides only that---a business designation.  It does not signify any trademark, copyright, or logo ownership.

A Trademark is is an "ownership of rights", basically--which gives YOU sole rights to the name, etc of the product, service, or process that you have designed or intend to market.  Just as inventors patent their inventions, so that no one else can copy them, a Trademark is similar.

It is adviseable to see either your attorney or accountant in this matter, since they are both licensed and qualified to give you the correct and pertinent answer in this. (I am not licensed to give you such legal/financial advice).

Me?  I would form an LLC, then Trademark any/all products/processes/services you intend to provide.

Keeps "copycats" out of your profit arena.

Later on, when your business is a great success, you could sell both the business and Trademark for a large sum of $.

(if you desired)