Starting LLC / trademarking name and logo

[a11111]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? TX

I'd like to start an LLC. I'll be the only owner. I already have a name and logo for the business.

I've been researching how to do this and there's a few things I'm confused about, so if anyone can help me I'd really appreciate it. Also, if you live in the Houston or Austin area we could schedule a meeting if it's too hard to discuss on here. Anyway, these are my concerns:

- Do I need to first check if my desired company name is already in use, or is there a function to do that when I apply to register it?
- Does registering the business automatically mean I own the name too, or do I need to trademark the name?
- Do I need to trademark the logo, and if so, how do I do this?
- I read somewhere that you also have to apply for a tax ID number? Is this done separately or are you automatically given one when your business is registered?

I'm very new to this so any answers would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[FlyingRon]

- Do I need to first check if my desired company name is already in use, or is there a function to do that when I apply to register it?

Well it might save you some time if indeed the name is in use. Do some rudimentary checking (google, phonebook, uspto.gov) to see. Also you can most likely inquire at the State Corporation Commission or wherever you do incorporation filings in TX to see if the name would be accepted.

- Does registering the business automatically mean I own the name too, or do I need to trademark the name?

Merely having a corporation doesn't mean squat with regard to the trademark. You need to use the mark in commerce and then you can also apply for registration. Again there are FAQ's at USPTO.GOV can give you more information.

- Do I need to trademark the logo, and if so, how do I do this?

See above.

- I read somewhere that you also have to apply for a tax ID number? Is this done separately or are you automatically given one when your business is registered?

It's separate, but easily done...Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) Online

There are sites and books that will tell you more, I suggest you avail yourself of them, there's more to this than we can instruct you here. Here's a start (SBA for Texas)...

Small Business Administration - Texas