Doing Business As (DBA)

Register your Business Name Today!

If you are a sole proprietor and you choose to operate your business under a name other than your personal name, you will need to register that name with the state, county and/or local jurisdictions in which the business operates. This is referred to as a Doing Business As (DBA) filing or a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) filing.

If you work for or own a corporation, or an LLC, for marketing purposes you may choose to operate under a name that is different from the original legal name of your business. If so, you will need to register the use of this name in the state or local jurisdiction where business is conducted.

A DBA name may also be known as a "Trade Name" or "Assumed Name" in certain jurisdictions. This is because it usually reflects a line or type of business more accurately than the legal company name. For example, if your legal corporate name was ASDF Inc. and your specialty was hand made dolls, you may want to complete a DBA filing for a name that lets consumers know what you sell, something like "Jenny's Custom Dolls."

Ordering a DBA Filing

CorpAmerica can complete your DBA filing for $125 plus applicable state and local fees. It takes just a few moments, and our Business Specialists are ready to assist you. Simply call 877-246-2462 or 302-636-5448. Or, you can email us at info@corpamerica.com.

Remember to choose a name that is memorable and accurately reflects your line of business. Then leave the rest to us. CorpAmerica provides the assistance you need to register your DBA name in the state, county and/or local jurisdictions where the business operates. Call us today to register your business name in any state!

DBA Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I file a DBA registration?

You need to register your DBA name prior to:

- Opening a business bank account for your DBA name.

- Advertising under your DBA name.

- Transacting business under a name other than the name listed on the original formation document.

2. Is there a limit to the number of DBA names I can register?

No. You can file as many DBA names as you need for your business. Contact us at 877-246-2462 or 302-636-5448. Or email info@corpamerica.com to register a DBA in your state.

3. Will my DBA name be protected from use by another business?

No. Your DBA name is not protected against use by another party. Registration of your DBA name is for public notice only. To ensure exclusivity for the right to use the name, you must register a Trademark.

4. Will my DBA filing expire?

Not necessarily. Each state or local jurisdiction where the DBA is registered has its own rule for expiration. Remember to maintain a current business address with your local government agency so they may contact you in the event your DBA filing expires. In this instance, you would need to re-file your DBA name.

5. Do I file my DBA name at the state level or the local level? What if I operate in multiple jurisdictions or multiple states?

DBA filing requirements vary by state as well as by type of business entity. Some states require a DBA filing at the county and/or city level as well. You may have to file a DBA for all local jurisdictions where you operate using your DBA name.

Let our experts at CorpAmerica assist you with your DBA filing today. Our knowledgeable staff will help you to be compliant with all local jurisdictions. Simply call 877-246-2462 or 302-636-5448.

RunMyOwnBiz.com Community

Did you know?

Businesses set up as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) issue membership interests in lieu of traditional shares of stock.