DBA

A DBA (also known as a "sole proprietorship", "Doing Business As" , or a "Fictitious Name") is a business that is not separate from its owner, merely a different name that the business owner operates under. The owner is personally liable for the company and its debt; all income is added on the owner's personal tax returns (pass-through taxation). If there is more than 1 owner, than the business is classified as a "Partnership".

PROS: Easy to setup, easy to maintain.

CONS: Owners are personally liable for the company and its debt ( you could lose your house, cars, personal assets, etc.) in a lawsuit. Usually not recognized at the State level, only in your city/county. No corporate "prestige" of having the "Inc." or "LLC" attached to your name. LLC's have primarily replaced DBA's as the entity of choice for even the smallest businesses.

How to get Started: Prepare and file a DBA application at the city or county where you intend to do business. Some jurisdictions require a separate publishing in a newspaper that notifies the public of your intent to "do business as" another name.

Do I Need a DBA?

A DBA serves two purposes:

1. If you are starting your business as a sole proprietorship or a partnership, then you will need to file a DBA so that you can "do business as" a name other than your real name.

For example, if you are named John Smith and wanted to operate as "JS Enterprises", you would need to file a DBA so that you can a) use and operate under that name and b) open a company bank account to accept payments made to "JS Enterprises".

2. If your business is already set up as a corporation or an LLC, and you wanted to do business under a different name then your corporate or LLC name, you will need to file a DBA.

For example, if your company name is ABC Services, LLC and you wanted to operate as "QuickKleen Services", then you would file a DBA. If you wanted to operate only as "ABC Services, LLC", then the DBA would not be required.

How do I Get a DBA?

DBA's are typically filed at the County Clerk's office. Getting a DBA or FBN can be a complicated task. There are thousands of counties in the United States and each has its own particular filing requirements.

File Your DBA Online Now

The good news is that our featured partner, Business Licenses LLC, allows you to find, fill and submit the necessary DBA forms online with the click of a button! Prices start at only $19.95!

Note: this service is provided by a third party, please read our Website Terms of Use for details.