Registering a “doing business as” (DBA) name provides important benefits for businesses, such as the opportunity to rebrand, expand offerings, and keep your personal name from being used in marketing—just to name a few. If you’re interested in getting a DBA for your Arizona company, these detailed steps and information will guide the way.
What is an Arizona trade name (DBA)?
When a company in Arizona wants to do business under a different name, it files that secondary name with the Secretary of State's Business Services Division. In Arizona, this secondary name is called a trade name, but it’s commonly called a DBA (“doing business as”) or a fictitious business name in other states.
A DBA, or trade name, allows you to operate under a name that is different from the one you legally registered with the Arizona Corporation Commission. For example, if your LLC is registered as "Smith Holdings, LLC" but you want to market your retail business as "Desert Boutique," you would file "Desert Boutique" as a trade name.
Arizona's trade name system is administered through the Secretary of State's office, and the state maintains a searchable database of all registered trade names. Arizona handles trade name registration at the state level, streamlining the process for businesses operating across multiple counties.
Arizona allows businesses to register multiple trade names, but each one must undergo separate applications and fees.
Important note: A trade name in Arizona doesn't provide any business liability protections, as it's not a separate legal entity. Make sure that your company is officially registered with the Arizona Corporation Commission if required for your entity structure.
Who needs to file a trade name in Arizona?
In Arizona, like most states, a trade name is an acceptable business practice, not something that is required for every business. However, there are some entity types and scenarios that might necessitate getting a trade name in Arizona.
Sole proprietors
Sole proprietors, who aren't required to register with the Arizona Corporation Commission, may operate under their own name. For those who want to use a more branded, memorable business name, a trade name is a great option. Arizona sole proprietors often use their DBAs to establish business credit, open business bank accounts, and create professional marketing materials.
Partnerships and LLCs using owner names
Similar to a sole proprietorship, LLCs and partnerships sometimes include an owner's or member's name in the official registered name. Getting and operating under a trade name can protect your identity in these cases. For example, if your LLC is named "Johnson & Associates, LLC" but you want to operate a restaurant called "Mesa Grill," a trade name allows for that flexibility.
Businesses rebranding or expanding services
Businesses grow and expand to meet customer needs, and that often involves new or different products or services. If your registered name is too specific to accommodate your expanding business—like "Jenna's Furniture Warehouse"—you can file a trade name that can be used for the new line of business—like "Jenna's Home Decor."
Foreign business entities
If a foreign business entity is registering with the Arizona Corporation Commission but its name is already in use in the state, it must file a DBA name to be able to register the business and operate in Arizona. For example, Arizona Revised Statute 29-804 provides specific trade name guidelines for foreign LLCs operating in the state.
The benefits of having an Arizona trade name
While Arizona does not require the registration of a trade name, filing for one can be beneficial for several practical reasons.
Enhanced branding and marketing
Registering a DBA allows your company to secure a name that is easier for branding and marketing purposes. Perhaps when you filed your registration documents with the Arizona Corporation Commission, you had to choose a long or wordy legal name so that it was distinguishable from others that were registered in Arizona at the time. With a trade name, you may be able to choose a simpler name that is more memorable for customers without having to register another business entity.
Added business credibility
Registering a trade name in Arizona also provides an added layer of credibility to some entity structures, like sole proprietorships or partnerships, that may conduct business under the owners' or members' legal names. These business owners may find that customers trust a company with a branded business name over one that simply reflects an individual's name.
Fulfills banking requirements
Banks may require sole proprietors and entities that are registered under the owner's name to provide a trade name certificate or proof of trade name registration to open a business bank account. For example, Bank of America and Wells Fargo may ask for DBA documentation in certain situations when opening Arizona business accounts. Using a business bank account instead of a personal bank account can help to further separate business and personal finances.
Arizona trade name requirements
There are no restrictions on what types of businesses can file a trade name in Arizona—this option is available to any business entity operating in the state. However, there are specific requirements and restrictions to keep in mind.
Naming restrictions
Arizona institutes naming restrictions for trade names, such as the following:
- No government affiliations. Names implying any affiliation with the government risk rejection.
- No financial institution terms. Names suggesting affiliation with banks or financial institutions may be rejected without proper documentation and licensure.
- Distinguishability. Trade names must be distinguishable from other trade names registered and in use in Arizona.
Entity-specific requirements
- Foreign business entities: As noted earlier, foreign business entities must file a trade name if their legal name is already in use in Arizona.
- Partnerships: According to Arizona Revised Statute 29-102, Arizona partnerships operating under a fictitious name are required to record a certificate of their trade name with the county recorder where their business is located. There are exceptions to this requirement listed in Revised Statute 29-103, such as for partnerships where all partners’ surnames appear in the business name.
How to file an Arizona trade name
Now that you understand the benefits and requirements of having a trade name, learn the step-by-step process for how to get one in Arizona.
Step 1: Choose a trade name
Your business name is one of the most important branding tools, so you'll want to ensure that your Arizona trade name reflects your business offerings and meets customer needs. Consider names that are:
- Easy to remember and pronounce
- Relevant to your business or industry
- Available as a domain name
- Compliant with Arizona naming restrictions
Step 2: Search for name availability
Even if you’ve come up with the perfect trade name, you'll only be able to use it if it's not already registered by another company in Arizona. To determine whether a particular trade name is available, search the Arizona Secretary of State's Entity Search database of names currently in use.
Once you type in your desired name, the database will either tell you that the search “yielded no results,” which means that the name is available, or it will show a list of similar names already in use and whether they are official registered business names, trade names, or trademarks.
Here are some useful search tips:
- Search variations of your desired name
- Check both exact matches and similar names
- Verify that the name is distinguishable from existing registrations and trade names
It’s also important to search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s database to verify that your desired name isn’t protected by a federal trademark. To streamline the process, LegalZoom can help you with comprehensive state and federal trademark searches.
Step 3: Prepare and submit your application
Apply for your trade name online using the online trade name application. Businesses must apply online; as of 2025, mail-in or in-person applications are not accepted.
Here’s the information that you’ll need to fill out the application:
- Proposed trade name
- Your email address
- Entity type and owner’s name
- Business address, mailing address, and business phone number
- Date of first use of the trade name in Arizona
- A brief description of the nature of the business
If the filer is not an owner or member of the business, they may need to upload a letter of consent stating that they are authorized to file a trade name and sign on behalf of the owner.
Once all of the details are provided and the required prompts completed, you can submit your application.
Step 4: Submit your application and receive your certificate
Once all the information is provided, submit the application. The Secretary of State’s office will then review your application. If it’s approved, you’ll receive an email prompting you to submit payment for the $10 filing fee. If it’s rejected, the email will state why.
When you complete the application payment, the Secretary of State’s office will email you a certificate of trade name registration.
You can expect the following processing times for application review:
- Standard: 2–3 weeks
- Expedited: 2–3 days (requires an additional $25 fee)
Step 5: Maintain records
Keep your certificate of trade name registration for your records, as you may need it to open business bank accounts, obtain business licenses, and enter into contracts. It also proves you have the right to use your name.
How much does an Arizona trade name cost?
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
| Initial registration | $10.00 | Per trade name |
| Renewal | $10.00 | Every 5 years |
| Amendment | $3.00 | To change details |
| Duplicate certificate | $3.00 | For additional copies |
| Expedited processing | $25 | Cuts review time to 2-3 days |
| Cancellation | Free | Cancel current trade name |
How to renew, change, or cancel an Arizona trade name
Arizona DBAs require ongoing maintenance to remain valid and current.
Renew an Arizona trade name
Arizona trade names must be renewed every 5 years from the date of initial registration. Failure to renew results in an automatic cancellation of your trade name registration by the Secretary of State.
To make sure your name is not canceled, complete the Trade Name Renewal application online and pay the $10 filing fee. You’ll receive an updated certificate upon approval.
Change ownership or name details
If you need to change any business information, such as business address or phone number, you can complete a Trade Name Amendment online and pay the $3 filing fee.
Transferring ownership of the trade name, also called an assignment, is a slightly different process. You’ll still complete the Trade Name Assignment application online and pay the $10 filing fee, but you’ll also need to print it, provide a signature and date, and get it notarized. Then, send the notarized, printed form to the following address:
Secretary of State
Attn: Trade Name/Trademark Department
1700 W. Washington Street, Fl. 7
Phoenix, AZ 85007-2808
Cancel a trade name
To voluntarily cancel your Arizona trade name, complete the Trade Name Cancellation form online. Next, print, sign, and date it; then get it notarized. Finally, as with a trade name assignment, send the notarized form to the Secretary of State’s address (provided above).
Arizona trade name vs. trademark vs. entity name
Trade names, trademarks, and entity names are different things. Here’s a breakdown of all three.
Legal rights and protections compared
| Name Type |
Description | Protection level |
Geographic scope |
Duration | Cost |
| Trade name |
Fictitious business name, or DBA name | No business liability protection | State-level | 5 years (renewable) | $10 |
| Trademark | A word, name, symbol, design, or combination that identifies a brand | Legal brand protection | State-level, national, and potentially international | 10 years (renewable) | $350 |
| Entity name |
Name of registered business entity | Business liability protection | State-level | Ongoing with entity | Varies by entity type |
Trade name rights
Once you have fully obtained your Arizona DBA, you have the following:
- The right to use the name for business purposes in Arizona
- Protection against identical trade name registrations in the state
- No exclusive trademark rights beyond state registration
- Limited enforcement options against infringement
When you need a federal trademark
Consider federal trademark registration when:
- You plan to expand beyond Arizona
- Your brand has significant commercial value
- You need stronger legal protection for your brand
- You want to prevent nationwide infringement
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office handles federal trademark applications, which provide broader protection than an Arizona trade name.
Get an Arizona DBA with LegalZoom
LegalZoom’s DBA filing service is a simple and straightforward way to get your trade name in Arizona. Simply fill out our online questionnaire and we’ll take care of the rest, including conducting a preliminary name search and filing the paperwork. Our premium service even includes a month of unlimited 30-minute consultations with a business attorney for advice on next steps for your business.
FAQs about Arizona DBAs
Is a trade name required in Arizona?
No, trade names are not legally required in Arizona. Businesses can operate under their registered legal name. However, trade names are required when operating under a different name than the one registered with the state, and may be beneficial for branding, banking, and privacy purposes.
How long does an Arizona trade name last?
Arizona trade names are valid for 5 years from the date of registration and must be renewed to remain active. The renewal fee is $10.
Can an LLC use multiple DBAs in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona LLCs, as well as other business entities, can register multiple trade names. Each trade name requires a separate $10 registration fee and individual renewal every five years.
What's the difference between a trade name and a trademark in Arizona?
A trade name provides the right to use a business name in Arizona, while a federal trademark provides broader intellectual property protection. Trade names cost $10 and last five years, while federal trademarks cost a minimum of $350 and must be renewed every 10 years.
How do I change or withdraw an Arizona trade name?
To change the business details of your trade name, file an amendment for $10. To withdraw your trade name, submit the cancellation form online and send a notarized, printed form to the Secretary of State’s office.
Can I use my trade name immediately after filing?
You can begin using your trade name once your application is approved, which may take two to three weeks for standard processing.
Do I need to publish my Arizona trade name in a newspaper?
No, Arizona does not require newspaper publication for trade name registrations.
Can I reserve a trade name before filing?
Arizona does not offer trade name reservations. You must file the complete application to secure your desired name.
Carolyn Albee and Sam Eichner contributed to this article.
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