File a DBA in Delaware

Step 4: Receive confirmation

After your application is processed and approved, the DOR will issue a confirmation of your DBA registration. Keep this document for your records, as banks and other institutions may require it.

How long does a DBA last in Delaware? Renewal, changes, and cancellations

Delaware DBAs don’t expire, so there’s no need to renew. If your business details change—such as ownership, key personnel, or business address—you can update your DBA through Delaware One Stop using the Update Trade Name process. There is no fee to make these updates.

If the taxpayer ID associated with your DBA changes, you’ll need to complete a new DBA registration.

If you stop using a trade name, you can cancel your DBA by submitting a request through Delaware One Stop using the termination workflow. Once processed, the DBA will be removed from the active registry. There is no fee to cancel a DBA.

How to update a DBA registered through Delaware courts

If your DBA was originally registered through the Delaware courts (applies to registrations before February 2, 2026), any updates must now be handled through the Division of Revenue’s Delaware Trade Name Registry via Delaware One Stop.

To make changes, you’ll first need to add your existing DBA to the state’s trade name registry and then submit updates through your DBA account. This re-registration is free if you provide the file number associated with your original court registration. Keep in mind that completing this process requires an associated Delaware business license.

What's the difference between a DBA, LLC, and corporation in Delaware?

A DBA only allows your business to operate under a different name than its legal name. It doesn’t form a separate legal entity, nor does it authorize you to transact business in Delaware in general. 

In contrast, forming a Delaware LLC or corporation creates a separate legal entity under Delaware law that offers various benefits such as limited liability (asset) protection and potential tax benefits. 

How LegalZoom can help with your Delaware DBA

LegalZoom can help you register your Delaware DBA online. Here’s what our service includes:

• Name availability search through Delaware’s databases to verify that the name you choose is unique and meets state requirements
• Form preparation and filing with the Division of Revenue
• Customizable website to help you market your new brand 
• Access to ongoing support for updates or cancellations

LegalZoom also offers adjacent services, such as LLC or corporation formation, registered agent services, and trademark registration. Our expertise in business formation ensures your DBA gets filed efficiently and meets state requirements. If your filing is rejected due to our error, we'll correct it at no additional cost.

FAQs about DBAs in Delaware

What does DBA mean in Delaware?

DBA stands for "doing business as" and refers to a fictitious or assumed business name that differs from your legal name or registered business name. In Delaware, it's also called a trade name or fictitious business name.

Is a DBA required for LLCs in Delaware?

No, an LLC doesn’t have to file a DBA in Delaware to operate under a name other than its legal business name. However, it may choose to register for various reasons, such as to open a bank account under the fictitious name.

Can I have multiple DBAs in Delaware?

Yes, you can register multiple DBAs in Delaware using a single business license. Each DBA requires a separate application and filing fee. 

How do I write my DBA name on contracts and checks?

The proper format is "[Legal Name] d/b/a [DBA Name]" or "[Legal Name] doing business as [DBA Name]." For example: "John Smith d/b/a Smith's Auto Repair."

Are there publication requirements for Delaware DBAs?

Delaware doesn’t require publication of DBA filings in newspapers, unlike some other states. 

What documents do banks require for a DBA account?

Delaware banks typically require the filed DBA certificate and personal identification. They may request additional documentation such as a business license or EIN, depending on the bank's policies.

How do I cancel or change a Delaware DBA?

You can cancel or update a Delaware DBA through the Delaware One Stop portal. Changes can be made using the Update Trade Name workflow, but if the taxpayer ID associated with the DBA changes, you’ll need to complete a new registration. To cancel a DBA you no longer use, submit a request through the termination workflow. There is no fee to change or cancel a DBA.

Carter Giegerich and Sam Eichner contributed to this article.