File a DBA Name Today

When getting started, many business owners have to decide on a type of business, business structure, location, which business licenses they’ll need, and more. One thing that many sometimes forget to consider is a “doing business as” (DBA) name. If you’ve never heard of a DBA before, then some questions will probably run through your head:

• What is a DBA?
• How do I file for a DBA?
• How much does a DBA cost?

You should consider a DBA if you plan to operate your business under a different name than the one it’s registered under. They’re oftentimes called a “trade name” or “fictitious business name,” depending on the state.

Although DBAs are best for certain business types like sole proprietorships, other business entities like a limited liability company (LLCs) and limited partnership (LP) can also find them beneficial. Remember that a DBA is not a separate legal entity. 

Check out our guide for business owners on how to get a DBA. Have a business already? We can help secure a DBA for you. Simply use the button below.

Conduct a DBA Name Search

Do you remember when you secured your company name? You needed to spend some time picking out the right name, then looking online to see if it was available. The same is true for getting a DBA name. You’ll first want to jot down a list of potential names that fit your brand.

Look Up Name Possibilities

Once you have these ready, you’ll log onto your state’s Secretary of State website (in some cases, the Commonwealth of State website). Search for your state’s business name database and look up your list of names to determine which ones are available.

Reserving a DBA Name

Once you have narrowed down your list, do a quick domain search to find out if any are available to purchase. From there, decide on the right DBA name based on your search results.

If you’re not ready to register your DBA name right away, you might want to consider reserving your DBA name online or via mail. Most states charge for this service but will hold your name for 120 days. We can also reserve your business name.

Trademarking Your DBA Name

You may also want to consider trademarking your DBA name. You can also apply to register a trademark at the state and federal levels. You’ll want to check the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database for any existing trademarks on your name.

While federal registration of a trademark often comes with broader protections, trademark registration is often easier and quicker at the state level. There’s typically a state-level database you can check, and if your name is in the clear, you can register a trademark on your DBA name in the state where you’ll be conducting business. Learn more about registering a trademark.

Naming Rules

Note that some states have specific rules regarding company names, such as words that cannot be included in your name. Be sure to check your state’s regulations before committing to a DBA name.

File Your DBA Name Application

Once you’ve selected a name, you’re ready to file the DBA forms to register it! Some states do not refer to this as a DBA name and instead list the form as an application for an assumed name, fictitious name, or trade name. 

You can find this form on your Secretary or Commonwealth of State’s website and typically submit it via online filing in minutes. You can also mail in your application. There is a filing fee in most states for this application.

To fill out this application, you’ll need your DBA name and your company’s Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you have a sole proprietorship and do not have an EIN, you will need to use your Social Security number instead. You may also need to supply your company’s official name.

Also keep in mind that there may be additional requirements for filing a DBA name at the city or county level. Reach out to your county clerk if you have questions about DBAs. 

Publish Your DBA Name Publicly

The last step is not relevant in all states, but in some, you’ll be required to publish your DBA in local newspapers. States that require this are:

• California
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Minnesota
• Nebraska
• Pennsylvania

The exact requirements vary by state, but typically the expectations are that you’ll publish your company’s DBA name each week for four weeks. This might require publishing an ad or a statement that includes your company’s name, contact information, and DBA name. Be sure to also check out the pros and cons of DBAs.

We can help

We know that going through the process of getting a DBA can be long and hectic. Rest easy because we can help you register your DBA name. We also have many other business formation services that can ease your work so you can focus on being successful.