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Reasons to get a "doing business as" name

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It may be legally required.

Use a different business name than your entity's official name or your personal name.

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Set up a business bank account.

For sole proprietorships and general partnerships, many banks require a DBA.

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Expand and grow your business.

Name new business lines and keep them separate to cut down on paperwork and expenses.

It's a valuable asset to your business

Your business name is how customers find and recognize you, so a unique DBA can have a positive impact. The registration process can also help you avoid legal problems by making sure you don't choose a name that's confusingly similar to another business in your area.

Learn more about DBAs

We know the process - we make it easy

Every state and county has different regulations about DBAs. We don't just send you a blank form. We'll do a preliminary name search (where required) and file your DBA statement with the appropriate office. If proof of publication is required, we'll publish your DBA at no extra cost.

Find out more about DBAs in your state

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Standard

$99

+ state filing fees

Preliminary name search

We'll check to see if the name you want is available.

DBA application filing

We'll complete and file your application with the appropriate government office.

Publication of your DBA name

If required, we'll publish notice of your DBA filing in an authorized newspaper.

Proof of publication filing

If your county requires proof of publication, we'll file it at no extra charge.

More details

Premium

$119

+ state filing fees

Everything from Standard plus:

3-month trial of QuickBooks Online

Track expenses and more with the easy-to-use accounting software (a $119 value).

30-day trial of attorney advice*

Speak with an independent attorney on an unlimited number of new legal matters.

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Common questions

Is a fictitious business name the same as a DBA?
Yes. The name varies by state. A DBA name is sometimes also called an assumed business name or trade name.
Does my LLC or corporation need a DBA?
You may be required to file a DBA application if you plan on using a name that's different than the official LLC or corporation name filed with the state. When choosing a DBA name, some states and counties will allow you to use the designation "LLC" or "Inc." But you can't imply that your company is a different entity type than it really is.
Can I open a bank account before my DBA is filed?
Most banks require sole proprietorships and general partnerships to have registered DBAs to open bank accounts under their business names.
Do I need a DBA if I'm using my personal name?
In some places you can use your full name or part of your name without having to register a DBA. Exact rules can vary by state and by county, so it's best to contact your county clerk's office.
Is there a difference between a DBA and a trademark?
Yes. The purpose of a DBA is to inform the public that you intend to conduct business within your state using a name other than your personal name. A DBA doesn't give you unlimited rights to use that name. In contrast, trademark registration can protect a business' brand name, slogan or logo beyond a single geographic area.
Can someone else register the same name?
Some states and counties will register any properly filed DBA, even if it's the same name as yours. DBA filing doesn't provide business name protection. Name protection generally comes under state and federal trademark law.

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Questions and answers

This public forum is not intended to provide legal advice and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Unless specifically indicated, the content is not drafted, supported, or vetted by LegalZoom. It is simply a place for customers to help customers. If you need legal advice, LegalZoom can connect you to a licensed and independent attorney. If you are providing answers, please do not provide legal advice if you are not qualified or licensed to do so.

Register your DBA starting at $99 + fees

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Learn more about DBAs

File a DBA with LegalZoom

If you choose to name your business anything other than your own personal legal name or last name, or legal name of your business entity, you will need to register the name with the appropriate government office. This process is referred to as registering a DBA name. DBA (Doing Business As) is commonly referred to as fictitious business name, assumed name or trade name. We simplify the process of registering a business name by completing and filing your DBA application. If required, we even perform a DBA name search, publish your DBA in a local newspaper and file proof of publication at no additional cost. Let LegalZoom help with your DBA filing. Just fill out a simple online questionnaire and we'll take care of the filing. 

*Telephone consultations with a participating firm, during normal business hours, of up to one half (1/2) hour each, limited to one consultation for each new legal matter. After the 30-day trial period, benefits to the Business Legal Plan (also Business Advantage Pro or Business Advisory Plan) continue automatically at the plan rate (currently $39.99 per month). Cancel by calling (877) 818-8787. For full details, see the Legal Plan Contract and Subscription Terms.