How to File a DBA: A Quick Guide for Business Owners

Thinking of rebranding your business but don’t want to change its legally registered business name? Consider getting a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name.

A DBA or fictitious name allows you to conduct business under a new title without establishing a separate legal entity. Consider it your business’s legal nickname, the title you’ll use in your everyday operations.

While the process and requirements for obtaining a DBA name may vary from one state to another, rest assured that it’s a relatively straightforward process. Understanding the basics of DBA registration will give you a clear idea of what to expect.

Below, we’ll outline how you can file a DBA registration in four easy steps. 

What is a DBA Name?

A “Doing Business As” or fictitious name is a designation that allows businesses to operate under a name other than their legally registered title.

For instance, the popular fast food chain McDonald’s official name is “McDonald’s Corporation,” but it primarily uses the title “McDonald’s” for its branding. This trade name allowed the company to create a brand identity that customers could easily recognize.

It’s worth noting that DBAs are not separate legal entities. They cannot provide liability protection since they are not considered a business structure. DBAs are also not trademarks. Although some people refer to them as a trade name, they do not have the same legal protection as trademarks.

Why Should I File A DBA?

There are several reasons why you should consider getting a DBA name:

You don’t want to use your personal name.

Not filing a DBA could lead to potential legal issues and confusion among customers. Sole proprietorships and partnerships must operate under their owners’ legal name. However, this setup could prevent businesses from establishing their own brand identity.

Furthermore, using your name as your business’s trade name will expose your personal information to the public, leaving you vulnerable to identity theft and other privacy concerns.

Your bank requires a DBA.

Some banks and financial institutions require sole proprietors and partners in general partnerships to register a DBA before they can open an account. This way, you can keep your personal and business finances separate.

You want to build a memorable brand.

Branding is one of the primary reasons why many businesses obtain DBAs. It’s common for companies to have long names that are difficult to remember. So, as a solution, they register a shorter, more memorable DBA name.

Obtaining a DBA will also make building a brand identity easier. You can choose a name that reflects your business’s values. For example, if you’re a sustainable fashion brand, you’ll need a trade name emphasizing your commitment to designing eco-friendly products.

You want to enter a new market.

Some limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations use DBAs to enter a new market. You can register a DBA to showcase your newest offering if your business’s official name doesn’t reflect your new product line.

LLCs can have as many DBA names as they want, making them the perfect solution for ventures offering a wide range of products and services.

How to File A DBA For An LLC

The process for filing a DBA varies from one state to another. But generally, it involves the following steps:

Choose a trade name.

First and foremost, when finalizing the DBA name you want to register, let your creativity flow. Choose a compelling and unique name that will reflect your business’s vision and goals, and set you apart in the market.

Check the availability of your DBA name.

Once you’ve chosen your DBA name, you must ensure it’s not taken. Each state has its own business name search tool you can use to see if your target DBA is available.

File your DBA registration.

Generally, you will have to provide the following information to register your DBA:

• Your LLC’s legal name.
• Your LLC’s principal business address.
• Your LLC’s Employer Identification Number (EIN).
• The name you want to register as DBA.

You may have to file your forms with your local or county clerk’s office, depending on the DBA registration process in your state. You should contact your Secretary of State to determine where to file your DBA registration.

Publish a notice.

Some states require businesses to publish a notice in the local newspaper informing the community about their DBA. This step promotes transparency and ensures the public knows your business will operate under a new name.

Other jurisdictions also require filing an Affidavit of Publication within your city or county office.

How Much Does It Cost to File A DBA?

The cost of filing a DBA varies by state and county, but it generally ranges between $10 and around $100. Depending on your county’s regulations, you may have to renew your registration every one to three years.

How long does it take to process a DBA registration?

A DBA registration typically takes one to four weeks to process, but this timeline is only an estimate. Depending on the number of applications received, your county could take weeks or months to approve your DBA.

So, to avoid a long wait, we suggest you file your DBA as soon as possible.

Tips for A Successful DBA Registration

To ensure that your DBA registration goes smoothly, here are some tips to consider:

Obtain a certificate of good standing.

Most states require LLCs and corporations to provide a certificate of good standing when registering a DBA. So before you fill out any applications, obtain a certificate of good standing from your Secretary of State.

A certificate of good standing shows that your business has complied with all state and federal requirements. It demonstrates that your company is authorized to operate within the state.

Understand your state’s naming restrictions.

Each state has its own rules and regulations for naming businesses. Your application could easily be rejected if your DBA fails to comply with these requirements.

Take time to understand your state’s naming restrictions and ensure your new name is unique and does not violate state or federal regulations.

Check your county’s payment and filing methods.

If you’re in a hurry, check your county’s payment and filing methods beforehand. Some offer online filings, while others only accept mailed-in applications. Some counties only accept cash payments for filing fees, while others have debit or credit card payments.

File A DBA For Your LLC Today

Need assistance filing your LLC’s DBA? Inc. Authority’s here to help!

Inc. Authority offers free LLC formation services to businesses nationwide. Our business formation experts will help you form your LLC and guide you through your state’s DBA registration free of charge.

To learn more, visit our website here.