DBA / Fictitious Business Name Registration

When Do You Need a DBA?

• •Sole proprietor operating under any name other than your legal name
• •LLC or corporation using a name different from the registered entity name
• •You want to open a business bank account under your trade name
• •Required to accept checks made out to your business name

Typical Filing Process

1. Search for name availability (county or state database)
2. File the DBA application with your county clerk or state agency
3. Pay the filing fee ($10–$100 depending on state)
4. Publish a notice in a local newspaper (required in some states)
5. Renew every 5 years (varies by state)