Domain name with LLC

[16bwhitt]

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

Hi,

So let's assume I have an LLC. Let's call this LLC "Apple, LLC". However, the domain name "Apple.com" is taken. If I register a domain name called "Applenow.com", is that legal? I do not intend on using AppleNow in any marketing, as I plan to use Apple. But the domain name is simply unavailable.

Again, this is a hypothetical scenario.

Thanks for the advice.

 

[quincy]

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

Hi,

So let's assume I have an LLC. Let's call this LLC "Apple, LLC". However, the domain name "Apple.com" is taken. If I register a domain name called "Applenow.com", is that legal? I do not intend on using AppleNow in any marketing, as I plan to use Apple. But the domain name is simply unavailable.

Again, this is a hypothetical scenario.

Thanks for the advice.

We generally do not entertain hypotheticals on this forum. There are far too many variables.

That said, the domain name does not have to be the same as your business name. A domain name is simply an address on the internet that directs traffic to your site. You can have an Apple, LLC and your domain name could be Applesnow.com or even Grapes.com and it does not make a difference - except for consumers who might find it hard to locate you (which is why most businesses try to get a domain name that is the same or similar to their business name).

Also, even if a domain name is available to register and even if the state you live in allows for the registration of a name (which they often will if there is no other name registered like it in the state), this does not necessarily mean you are able to USE that name to identify your business, product or service. You need to be careful when choosing a name that it does not infringe on the rights of any trademark holder. The name "Apple" for computers or for music, for example, WOULD infringe and you could be sued if you attempted to use the name as a trademark for your own goods/services - or if you had a domain name that confused consumers into thinking you were connected in any way with the "big" Apples.