DBA Registration in 10 Minutes
Get a DBA registration
Your business name helps establish your brand. Apply for a “doing business as” (DBA) name and make yours memorable. Starts at $99 + filing fees.
DBA Registration in 10 Minutes
Your business name helps establish your brand. Apply for a “doing business as” (DBA) name and make yours memorable. Starts at $99 + filing fees.
We're the #1 choice for online DBA filings‡ for a reason. We deal with state and local agencies for you by filing your DBA directly with them.
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.
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
Our customized packages meet the compliance, filing speed, and support needs of your new business in one place.
starter
Covers all your required filings with the state, accuracy guaranteed.
$0
+ state feespro
$30 OFF
Everything to start and protect your LLC and keep it compliant year-round.
$199
$169/yr
+ state feesJanuary Special: Save $30 on the first year †
premium
$50 OFF
Get additional tools and expert support to start and grow your business online
$299
$249/yr
+ state feesJanuary Special: Save $50 on the first year †
† Discount only applies to the first year. Pro renews at $199/yr and Premium at $299/yr.
*Processing times are based on receiving complete information. File A Company processing times do not include Secretary of State processing times, which can vary.
**SPECIAL OFFER – Starter includes one optional free year of Worry-Free Compliance (renews at $199/yr).
DBA is an acronym that stands for "doing business as." DBA registration 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 name that’s shorter and catchier to conduct business and build your brand.
Depending on the state in which you're doing business, a DBA name 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.
You'll need a DBA name if you're planning to do business as something other than your personal name or your business entity's registered name. A DBA name isn't always required for a business, but it can be a useful tool.
Start Your Business
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For example, your DBA name may not use banking-related words or terms that could be associated with a governmental entity.
Some states require you to operate under your DBA name before registering it. It’s best to check with the county clerk office where you operate your small business for guidelines.
Some states require you to operate under your DBA name before registering it. It’s best to check with the county clerk office where you operate your small business for guidelines.
Start Your BusinessJoin the A “doing business as” (DBA) name allows your business—either an LLC, C corp, S corp, or sole proprietorship—to go by a legally registered nickname. DBAs are also called a “trade name” or “fictitious business name.” Learn how they relate below:
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.
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.
A DBA usually has to only 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.
By forming an LLC and keeping your personal financials separate, your personal assets are protected from business liabilities.
You get to decide how you're taxed—as an LLC or a corporation—to maximize your potential savings and minimize tax liability.
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.
Join the thousands of entrepreneurs who have already formed their businesses with File A Company.
There are several important differences between a DBA and a sole proprietorship.
Creating a DBA name allows you to promote your business without compromising your privacy, limiting the use of your legal name in day-to-day business transactions.
Branding becomes easier with a DBA. For marketing purposes, registering a DBA lets you have a name that clearly promotes the product or service you're offering.
Creating a DBA name adds credibility to your business. The good news is this doesn't require a major investment.
Many banks require sole proprietorships to have a DBA name—instead of a personal name—to open a business checking account.
The customer is always right, and we stand by it! We continue to improve our services based on our clients’ reviews to serve you better.
Starting a businesses in the U.S. as a foreign entrepreneur was daunting but fileacompany.com made it simple. They handled all the paperwork and communication with the IRS. My S-crop is up and running now.
Jonah from fileacompnay.com helped me obtain my international license for my event planning business. I can now officially take my services global. The excitement of this new chapter wouldn't have been possible without their expertise. A million thanks to you guys!
I needed help with DBA registration, and they got it done in no time. The process was super smooth and way easier than I expected. I highly recommend them.
File A Company is simply the best. Whether it's forming a new entity, obtaining an EIN or managing licenses, they have done everything for my business. I wouldn't trust anyone else with my business needs!
If you have more questions, please give us a call at (713) 257-9878. We love to help!
That’s okay! There’s no question that our experts can’t answer. Click on the chat window to speak with our expert.
Alabama
Connecticut
Illinois
Maine
Missouri
New
Mexico
Oregon
Texas
Wisconsin
Alaska
Delaware
Indiana
Maryland
Montana
New
York
Pennsylvania
Utah
Wyoming
Arizona
Florida
Iowa
Massachusetts
Nebraska
North
Carolina
Rhode
Island
Vermont
Arkansas
Georgia
Kansas
Michigan
Nevada
North
Dakota
South
Carolina
Virginia
California
Hawaii
Kentucky
Minnesota
New
Hampshire
Ohio
South
Dakota
Washington
Colorado
Idaho
Louisiana
Mississippi
New
Jersey
Oklahoma
Tennessee
West
Virginia
