How to File a DBA in California
Filing a DBA, also known as a fictitious business name, is relatively simple process with the normal government mumbo jumbo. DBAs need to be filed if you are doing business with a name other than your own. If your name is Terry Johnson and you are starting a company called "Johnson's Florist", then you need to file a DBA.
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Instructions
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Before you do anything, perform a search online to make sure the name is available. The search can be done from the website of the city where you live. This quickly searches a database of businesses in the area. Remember that in California there are restrictions to the name of the business.
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Print out the forms online from your city's website. This saves plenty of time, especially if you live in a big city. Don't fill out any lines on the DBA form that you are unsure of, just leave those blank and ask about them when you get there.
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Once the forms are filled out you can mail your DBA form to your office controller or you can go in person. Personally with the names I have filed, I like to go ahead and make the trip just in case there are any questions. If you accidentally filled out just one line wrong, they will mail it back to you and this takes time. Filing your DBA is important when you are anxious to get things rolling in your new business.
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There are plenty of online companies that will file your DBA or fictitious business name for you. The price isn't too steep but I like to do it myself for the experience. It depends on how much time you have and how comfortable you feel about the whole thing.
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After you have filed your DBA and paid the roughly $25 fee, you will have to publish it in a local newspaper. Ask the clerk for a form of all the local newspapers. Call for the best price, because it doesn't matter where you file.
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Congratulations, once you have published your DBA in the newspaper of choice you are done. In California, fictitious business names are good for 5 years so just be aware of that.
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Tips & Warnings
You might want to turn your phone off or give a fake email because you will be bombarded with phone calls and emails from predators trying to do business cards and other services for you.
Resources
- Photo Credit taxref.com
