How to Register a DBA (Doing Business As)
A “DBA” (also called a trade name or fictitious name) lets you operate under a name that’s different from your personal or company’s legal name.
Below is a simple, state-agnostic process, what it costs, common pitfalls, and what to do after you file.
MyBizNerd Take: A DBA is a branding/marketing tool—not a legal shield.
It doesn’t create a new entity or liability protection. If you need liability separation, compare LLC vs. sole proprietor first.
What a DBA Is (and Isn’t)
A DBA (“doing business as”), trade name, fictitious name, or assumed name is an alias you publicly use for your business.
It’s useful for marketing and banking consistency, but it does not form a new company or provide liability protection.
- Is: A public/administrative filing that lets you use a different name to transact business.
- Isn’t: A separate legal entity, a tax status, or a substitute for liability protection.
For official background and definitions, see the U.S. Small Business Administration’s guidance on business names and DBAs and the USPTO note on trade names vs. trademarks (linked below).
Who Needs a DBA
Common situations
- Sole proprietors: Using anything other than your legal name (e.g., “Jordan Lee” doing business as “Peak Design Studio”).
- LLCs & Corporations: Operating product lines or local brands under alternate names (e.g., “Peak Holdings LLC” using “Peak Landscaping”).
- Banks & payments: Many banks and processors prefer matching the account name to your trade name; a DBA helps align documents.
Where to file
States handle DBAs differently—some at the state level (Secretary of State), some at the county/city level (clerk/recorder).
Check your state’s rules, then follow the steps below.
How to File a DBA (Step-by-Step)
1) Check name availability & rules
Search your state/county database to confirm the name isn’t already taken and that it meets naming rules (e.g., no “LLC” if you’re not an LLC).
Also do a quick web + social handle sweep for conflicts.
2) Identify your filing office
Look up whether your DBA is filed with the state (often the Secretary of State) or your county/city clerk.
Filing portals typically offer online, mail, or in-person options.
3) Complete the DBA/assumed name form
Provide your legal entity/owner name, principal address, and the trade name you intend to use.
If you’re an LLC or corporation, have your formation details handy.
4) Publish a notice (if required)
A few jurisdictions require publishing your DBA in a local newspaper for a set period, then filing proof of publication. If applicable, your portal will explain how.
5) Pay the fee & file
Submit the application with the applicable fee and keep a stamped copy/receipt for your records. Note renewal intervals (often 1–5 years).
LLC vs. Sole Proprietor
and our state-by-state How to Open an LLC guide to avoid refiling later.
Costs & Timing
- Filing fees: Typically $10–$100 depending on the jurisdiction; publication (if required) adds cost.
- Processing time: Same-day to a few weeks depending on online vs. mail and local backlog.
- Renewals: Some DBAs expire and must be renewed (commonly every 1–5 years). Calendar this now.
Always confirm the latest requirements with your filing office. (Official SBA and IRS resources are linked below.)
What to Do After You File
1) Banking & payments
Open or update your business checking so the DBA name appears correctly on deposits and checks.
Our guide to the Best Banks for Small Business can help you choose.
2) Tax ID (EIN)
Your DBA uses the same tax ID as your underlying business. If you need a new EIN (e.g., hiring employees or entity change), see
How to Get an EIN.
3) Local licenses
Some cities/counties require a business license and ask for your DBA certificate number. Check local rules when you update your records.
4) Bookkeeping & receipts
Update your invoices, site footer, contracts, and POS to display the DBA where customers see it. Track expenses consistently—our
Expense Tracking guide has a simple workflow.
DBA vs. LLC vs. Trademark
DBA (Trade/Fictitious Name)
Public alias for your existing business. No liability protection or exclusive rights to the name.
LLC/Corp
Creates a separate legal entity and liability shield (if respected). Can operate multiple DBAs.
Trademark
Protects your brand (name/logo) in commerce. Separate from DBA. Consider a search and filing if brand exclusivity matters.
FAQ
Do I need an EIN to get a DBA?
Not always. A DBA doesn’t create a new entity—it generally uses the existing entity’s SSN/EIN.
You may need an EIN if you hire employees or change structures. See:
MyBizNerd EIN guide.
Does a DBA protect my name?
No. A DBA lets you use a name, but doesn’t grant exclusive rights. For protection, explore trademarks (see resources below).
Where do I file—a state office or my county?
It varies by state. The filing portal (state Secretary of State or local clerk) will spell out where to register, publication rules, and renewals.
What if I plan to scale nationwide?
Consider forming an LLC for liability protection and consistency, and evaluate trademarks early if the brand is core to your business.
Start with How to Open an LLC.
Trusted Sources & Further Reading
- SBA — Choose your business name & DBAs
- SBA — Register your business (DBA notes)
- USPTO — Trade name vs. trademark (flyer)
- IRS — When to get a new EIN
We keep guides current. See our Editorial & Research Standards.
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