Now easier to use and with better search results, the new ONECheck has launched. With more than 1.5 million searches on the original tool, this version is even more helpful, allowing you to check business names, trade marks, web domains and social media usernames in one simple search, and guiding you to your next steps.
Choosing a name for your business is a big decision, especially if you plan to build a brand around this name. Before you make any decisions it pays to make a few quick checks to see if any other businesses are using similar names, and how easy it will be to protect the name you choose. This also applies to existing businesses – while it’s better to get it right from the start, it is never too late to make a quick check.
That’s why in 2012 business.govt.nz launched ONECheck, a tool designed to make it easier to search for possible business names, associated domain names and trade marks. It’s been hugely successful, with businesses searching it 1.5 million times since launch.
You told us you wanted more – access to more information, like available social media handles, a clear explanation of the difference between registered business name, trading name and trade mark, guidance on how to best protect your brand and information about next steps.
This is what the new look, even easier-to-use ONECheck delivers.
Use ONECheck to see if your business name, web domain, trade mark and social media usernames are available — it only takes one search.
The new version of ONECheck provides:
Companies Register(external link) — Companies Office
About the NZBN(external link) — New Zealand Business Number
New Zealand Intellectual Property Office(external link) — IPONZ