DBA / Fictitious
Business Name

Register a "Doing Business As" name to operate your business under a different name than your legal entity. Perfect for branding, multiple business lines, or sole proprietors.

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What is a DBA?

A DBA (Doing Business As), also known as a fictitious business name, trade name, or assumed name, allows you to legally operate your business under a name different from your registered legal name.

For example, if you formed an LLC called "Johnson Enterprises LLC" but want to run a coffee shop called "Morning Brew Cafe," you would file a DBA for "Morning Brew Cafe."

Also Known As:

  • • Fictitious Business Name (FBN)
  • • Trade Name
  • • Assumed Name
  • • Doing Business As (DBA)

Who Needs a DBA?

Sole Proprietors

Operating under any name other than your legal personal name.

LLCs & Corporations

Using a different name than your registered business entity name.

Multiple Brands

Running several business lines under one legal entity.

Rebranding

Changing your public-facing business name without forming a new entity.

Benefits of a DBA

A DBA opens up new possibilities for your business

Brand Flexibility

Operate under a customer-friendly name that better reflects your business without changing your legal entity name.

Multiple Business Lines

Run several different businesses under one legal entity, each with its own distinct brand identity.

Open Business Bank Accounts

Most banks require a DBA certificate to open a business bank account under your trade name.

Accept Payments

Accept checks and payments made out to your business name rather than your personal or legal entity name.

Legal Compliance

Many states require businesses to register any name they use publicly that differs from their legal name.

Professional Image

Create a more professional and marketable business name that resonates with your target customers.

How to Get Your DBA

Our simple process makes filing your DBA quick and hassle-free

1

Choose Your Name

Select the business name you want to operate under. We'll check availability.

2

We Research Requirements

We determine whether to file at the state or county level based on your location.

3

Prepare & File

We prepare all necessary documents and file your DBA with the appropriate agency.

4

Receive Your Certificate

Get your official DBA certificate to use for banking and business purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about DBAs and fictitious business names

A DBA, also known as a fictitious business name, trade name, or assumed name, allows you to conduct business under a name different from your legal business name or personal name. For example, if your LLC is "Smith Holdings LLC" but you want to operate a bakery called "Sweet Dreams Bakery," you would file a DBA.
Not necessarily. If your LLC name is already the name you want to do business under, you don't need a DBA. However, if you want to operate under a different name or run multiple businesses under one LLC, a DBA allows you to do that legally.
No. A DBA simply registers a business name with local or state authorities but doesn't provide legal protection for the name. A trademark provides federal protection for your brand name, logo, or slogan and prevents others from using similar marks.
DBA filing requirements vary by state. Some states require filing with the Secretary of State, while others require filing at the county level where your business operates. Some states require both. We handle the research and filing for you.
DBA registration periods vary by state, typically ranging from 1 to 10 years. Many states require renewal, and some require you to publish a notice in a local newspaper. We'll remind you when your DBA needs to be renewed.
Yes! You can register multiple DBAs under a single LLC or corporation. This is a common strategy for businesses that want to operate different brands or business lines without forming separate legal entities for each.

Ready to File Your DBA?

Start doing business under your preferred name. We handle all the paperwork and filing requirements for you.

Get Started Now

Questions? Call us at 1-800-925-3240