Register your DBA
Your business name helps establish your brand. Apply for a DBA and make yours memorable. Starts at $99 + filing fees.
What’s a DBA?
DBA is an acronym that stands for "doing business as." A DBA is a way to give your business a name that’s different from your name or the registered name of your business. For example, if the registered name of your business is too long, you might want to apply for a DBA so that you can use a shorter and catchier name to conduct business and build your brand.
Other terms for DBA
Depending on the state in which you’re doing business, a DBA may also be called a fictitious business name, a trade name, or an assumed business name. These terms are often used interchangeably, but mean the same thing.
Do I need to apply for a DBA?
You’ll need a DBA if you’re planning to do business using a name other than your personal name or your business entity’s registered name. A DBA isn’t always required for a business, but it can be a useful tool.
3 reasons why a DBA could be beneficial for your business
Rebranding
If you want to rebrand your registered business and branch into new products or services, a DBA lets you pursue a different direction than your official business name suggests without having to start a new LLC or corporation.
Privacy
Businesses not registered with the state (e.g. sole proprietorships) operate under the owner’s full legal name, so your personal name would be listed on all transactions. With a DBA, you can separate your legal name from your business name and gain more privacy.
Legally required
A DBA is usually required under state law if you plan to operate your business under a name other than your legal name or an officially registered business name.
Ready to get your DBA?
Register my DBADBA vs. LLC: What’s the difference?
There are several important differences between a DBA and an LLC:
DBA
Ease and affordability
If you want to register your business name without creating an actual business entity like an LLC, a DBA is an easy way to do it.
Expansion and personalization
With a DBA, you can easily personalize your business by location. For example, if you have multiple ice cream shops in multiple towns, each shop can be branded with the name of the town.
Easy upkeep
A DBA usually only has to be renewed every few years, and it’s a great option for business owners who want to get an official business name without the upkeep needed for an LLC.
LLC
Protect your personal assets
By forming an LLC and keeping your personal financials separate, your personal assets are protected from business liabilities.
Tax flexibility
You get to decide how you’re taxed—as an LLC or a corporation—to maximize your potential savings and minimize tax liability.
More maintenance
Although LLCs have simpler record-keeping rules than other types of business entities, they still involve more ongoing maintenance than a DBA, such as annual filings and reports.
Ready to get your DBA?
Register my DBA
How to register a DBA
Here are some general steps to follow to file a DBA. There may also be state-specific requirements that you can likely find on the respective Secretary of State’s website.
Search your name
Make sure the DBA name you want isn’t already being used. You can usually conduct a business entity search on the Secretary of State’s website.
Review the naming requirements of your state
For example, you may not use banking-related words or terms that could be associated with a governmental entity.
Fulfill operating requirements
Some states require you to operate under your DBA before registering it.
File your DBA with the Secretary of State or local government agency
You can usually submit a form online or via mail.
DBA vs. sole proprietorship: What you should know
Keep your private life separate
Creating a DBA allows you to promote your business without compromising your privacy by limiting the use of your personal name in day-to-day business transactions.
Branding and marketing
Branding becomes easier with a DBA. For marketing purposes, having a DBA lets you have a name that clearly promotes the product or service you’re offering.
Increased legitimacy
Creating a DBA adds credibility to your business. The good news is that it’s easy and affordable.
Open a bank account
Many banks require sole proprietorships to have a DBA to open a business checking account.
File your DBA online
- Preliminary name search*
- DBA application filing
- Publication of your DBA name*
- Proof of publication filing
Everything from Standard plus:
- 14-day trial of attorney advice Renews at $49/mo. Cancel anytime†
- Preliminary name search*
- DBA application filing
- Publication of your DBA name*
- Proof of publication filing
DBA FAQ
Ready to get your DBA?
Register my DBAWhy use LegalZoom to set up your DBA?
Peace of mind
We’re the #1 choice for online DBA filings‡ for a reason. We deal with state agencies for you by filing your DBA directly with them.
Comprehensive name search
If it’s required in your state, our first step in registering your DBA will be to check your state’s official database to find out if the name you want is available.
Publication of business name
In states that require publication of new DBAs, we’ll publish your DBA statement in the appropriate newspaper.* We’ll also forward you the proof of publication and a copy of your statement.
What our customers are saying
LegalZoom provided the roadmap I needed to get going... and kept me updated on our status during the entire process.
—Allegra R., DBA customer
LegalZoom was quick and super easy to navigate. It was so simple there was no reason for me to go anywhere else!
—Jamika M., DBA customer
Everything is online and easy to access. Highly recommend to anyone who’s looking for professional services with easy access.
—Brian S., DBA customer
Questions?
Ask an attorney
Get the right guidance with an attorney by your side.
Call an agent at (866) 738-2618
Mon–Fri: 5 a.m.–7 p.m. PT
Weekends: 7 a.m.–4 p.m. PT
Ready to get your DBA?
Register my DBA#1 choice for DBA registration: Based on a November 2021 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.
Most reliable partner to help you form and grow your business: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.
92% of our business formation customers would recommend LegalZoom’s services to others: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.
Best in class products and services: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.
Most trusted formation service: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.
*If required in your county or state.
†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 14-day trial period, benefits to the Business Legal Plan (also Business Advantage Pro or Business Advisory Plan) continue automatically at the plan rate (currently $49 per month). Cancel online or by calling (877) 818-8787. For full details, see the Legal Plan Contract and Subscription Terms.
‡Based on a November 2021 survey comparing online legal service companies.
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