Registering to do business under a different name can be a smart move from a branding perspective, but Washington state has specific requirements and procedures. This guide covers everything you need to know about the process.
What is a DBA and who needs one in Washington?
If a business wants to operate under a different name than the one used in its initial filing documents, it needs to register for a trade name or fictitious name. This applies to all businesses in the state, including sole proprietorships and partnerships, and the process is often called filing for a DBA, which is short for "doing business as."
For example, if Frank's Hot Dogs LLC wants to do business as "Best Hot Dogs in Town," then the owners have to file a DBA with the Washington Department of Revenue.
Getting a DBA also allows a business to open bank accounts, enter into contracts, and otherwise use the new name to operate the business.
Registering a DBA name doesn't give you any sort of trademark rights to that name. Trademarks are primarily governed by federal law, so even if you can register "McDonald's" as your DBA, you should expect a legal challenge if you try to use that trademarked name in commerce.
How to file a DBA in Washington: Step-by-step instructions
Filing for a DBA in Washington involves several specific steps, which you can complete through the Washington Department of Revenue's online system.
Step 1: Conduct a Washington business name search
Before you can file for a DBA, you want to make sure the name you'd like to use isn't already registered. If it is, then you're blocked from registering that name for yourself, and you'll need to pick a new name.
The Washington Department of Revenue maintains a searchable database of all registered trade names.
Step 2: Complete the online application
In Washington State, any business filing to use a DBA must register for a business license. The business license application pulls double duty by registering the business name and meeting the licensing requirement at the same time. To file the necessary forms online, follow the steps on the state’s business licensing wizard.
Washington State charges $5 per registered trade name, plus a nonrefundable business license processing fee. The price of this nonrefundable fee is determined according to your specific circumstances. For example, if you are opening your business for the first time and filing a DBA at the same time, your cost will be $5 per trade name, plus $50 for opening your business. If, however, you are filing a DBA for an existing business, the nonrefundable filing fee is $10, making your total cost $10, plus $5 for each trade name you register.
Once you submit your completed application and payment, the Washington Department of Revenue will process your registration. You'll receive an electronic confirmation with your trade name registration number, which serves as proof of your DBA filing.
Step 3: Update business records and licenses
After receiving confirmation, update your business records and notify relevant agencies of your new trade name. This may include business insurance providers, vendor and supplier records, and your bank.
How long does a DBA last in Washington?
Some states require businesses to renew their trade names, but DBAs last indefinitely in Washington State. However, this means that you must actively cancel your DBA if you no longer wish to use it, which you may do for free at any time through the Department of Revenue.
FAQs about Washington DBAs
Does Washington have a publication requirement for DBAs?
No, Washington state does not require publication of trade name registrations in local newspapers, unlike some other states such as California or New York. This makes the Washington DBA process more streamlined and cost-effective for businesses.
How many DBAs can I have in Washington?
Washington allows businesses to register multiple trade names. Each trade name requires a separate registration and fee. There's no legal limit on the number of trade names a single business entity can register.
Do I need a DBA if I'm a sole proprietor using my own name?
If you're a sole proprietor operating under your exact legal name (e.g., "John Smith"), you don't need a DBA. However, if you add any descriptive words (e.g., "John Smith Consulting" or "Smith's Auto Repair"), you must register a trade name.
Can I change my DBA after filing in Washington?
You cannot modify an existing trade name registration. To change your trade name, you must register the new trade name separately, or reach out to the Department of Revenue to cancel the old trade name registration.
What if I move my business outside of Washington?
Washington trade name registrations are only valid within Washington state. If you relocate your business to another state, you'll need to register the trade name in your new state.
Sam Eichner contributed to this article.
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