How to Get a Free Domain Name for Your Business
Several hosting providers offer free domains with their plans. Here's how to get one and what to watch out for.
2 min read · Updated 2026-04-15
Short answer
You can get a free domain by signing up for web hosting with Bluehost or Hostinger (both include a free domain for the first year). Squarespace and Wix also include a free domain on paid plans.
How to get a free domain
Option 1: With web hosting (WordPress sites)
Bluehost — free .com domain for the first year with any hosting plan (~$3/month)
Hostinger — free domain with any annual plan (~$2/month)
SiteGround — free domain migration (not new registration)
Option 2: With a website builder
Squarespace — free custom domain for the first year on any paid plan ($16+/month) Wix — free domain for one year on any paid plan ($17+/month)
Option 3: Genuinely free (with limitations)
Freenom — free .tk, .ml, .cf, .ga domains — not recommended for business (looks unprofessional)
GitHub Pages — free subdomain (yourname.github.io) — for developers only
The catch with "free" domains
Free domains from hosting companies are only free for the first year. After that, renewal costs $10–$20/year. This is standard and not a scam — just be aware of the renewal price before signing up.
What to do after getting your free domain
- Make sure auto-renew is turned on (so you don't lose it)
- Enable WHOIS privacy (protects your personal info)
- Point it to your website (your host will guide you through this)
Should you get a free domain or buy one separately?
If you're also buying hosting or using a website builder, take the free domain — it's genuinely free for the first year and simplifies setup.
If you're keeping your domain and hosting separate (recommended), buy from Namecheap for ~$10/year.