How to Get a DBA Trade Name
A DBA ("doing business as") protects businesses (especially sole proprietorships and partnerships) from having their trade names infringed upon by other business interests. For example, if you register "Mike's Mattresses" as your DBA, you don't need to worry about another business opening another "Mike's Mattresses" down the street and hurting your business and reputation. In some states, a DBA is referred to as a fictitious name or assumed name.
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Instructions
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Research the DBA laws in your state and find the government agency responsible for handling trade names. The U.S. Small Business Administration website has a thorough list of state laws regarding DBAs. Some states require you to register at the state level (thorough the secretary of state) and others at the county level (through the county clerk).
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Visit the website of the agency that handles DBAs in your state and download the DBA or assumed name registration form. If registering at the county level, visit the website of the county clerk in the county where you conduct your primary business operations. You may also visit the government agency in person.
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Perform a DBA search. To register a DBA, you must make sure that it is not already in use by another business entity in your county or state. Some county clerk and secretary of state websites contain a DBA search page that allows you to enter your prospective DBA and verify its availability. In other cases, you need to call or visit the appropriate office and ask if the name is available. If your first choice is taken, choose a different name.
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Fill out the DBA registration form. A standard form will ask you for the names of all involved business owners, as well as Social Security numbers, the desired DBA name, the main address of the business and the nature of the business.
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Submit the DBA form. If you downloaded the form from the Internet, you can mail it to the address at the top of the form, along with a check for the filing fee as indicated on the form. If you obtained the form in person, just submit it directly to the appropriate office. After the agency approves your form, you may be required to print your DBA for two or more consecutive weeks in a local newspaper, depending on your state. When it's approved, your government agency will notify you of any final requirements.
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