Doing Business As (DBA)

What is a DBA?

A doing business as (DBA) name is an official way to register your business with either the state or a local jurisdiction. A DBA name is also called an assumed name, fictitious business name or trade name.

Why filing a DBA is Important

Filing a DBA allows sole proprietorships and general partnerships to operate under a name other than the owner(s) personal name(s). Owner(s) of a C Corporation, S Corporation, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Limited Partnership (LP), Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) or Nonprofit Corporation will be required to file a DBA to conduct business using a name other than the official company name.

Once a DBA filing is approved, the business can:

• Use the name as its official business name
• Open a business bank account under the new name
• Use the name on stationery or business cards
• Create advertisements and/or list the company in directories
• Undertake transactions on behalf of the company

*We do not file DBAs in Kansas, Mississippi, New Mexico, and South Carolina. LLC or PLLC fees may vary.

* If you would like to officially change the name of your company, a business name amendment will be required.