What is a DBA and how can a business file for one?
Ready to brand your business beyond your legal name? Discover the power of a DBA. Presented by Chase for Business.
- A "doing business as" (DBA) registration allows a business to operate under a name different from its legal one, also known as a "trade name," "fictitious business name," "assumed business name" or "alternate business name."
- DBAs are common for sole proprietors and partnerships that want a business name other than their own, as well as for LLCs and corporations launching new brands or ventures without creating a new legal entity.
- Filing for a DBA is generally straightforward, but it’s important to understand your state’s requirements and follow the steps to stay compliant.
Have a side hustle that’s growing into a business? Or maybe you’re already running an established company and thinking about launching something new? A DBA can be a smart and simple way to operate your business under a different name without creating a new legal entity. Use this guide as a resource for understanding when a DBA makes sense and how to get started.
What is a DBA?
You've launched a business with a legal name, but what if you want to use a different name for marketing and day-to-day operations? This is where a DBA comes in.
DBA stands for "doing business as." It’s a registered trade name that’s different from your business’s official legal name. Think of it as a formal nickname. It lets you present your business under a brand-friendly fictitious name while maintaining the same legal structure.
Who needs a DBA?
The need for a DBA depends on your business structure and what you hope to accomplish — whether that’s operating under a new brand name, managing multiple ventures under one entity or other goals specific to your business. Since each state has different policies on DBAs, it’s important to check with your state’s business registration officeOpens overlay to see if you need one.
Sole proprietorships and general partnerships
DBAs are common among sole proprietors and partnerships because they allow individuals to separate their businesses from their personal identities and legal names. As a sole proprietor or partnership, your legal business name and your personal name are linked. A DBA lets you operate under a more descriptive or creative name.
For example, if your name is Betty Smith and you want to operate your bakery as “Baked by Betty” instead of “Betty Smith,” you need a DBA. This also allows you to open a business bank account under your business's DBA name.
Corporations, LLCs and LLPs
If you own a corporation, LLC or LLP, you’ll need a DBA to use a name other than the one you registered when forming your business. This can happen when a single company is managing multiple brands or launching a new one. For example, if the corporation “Betty Inc.” owns “Baked by Betty” and is opening a new burger joint called “Betty’s Burgers,” they can file a DBA rather than starting a new corporation or LLC.
Franchises
Franchise owners should almost always register a DBA. Franchisers typically establish their own legal entity — often an LLC or corporation — to help protect themselves from liability. They then need to register a DBA to use the name of the franchise itself. The DBA links your legal entity to the public-facing franchise name so you can legally use the brand's name for business operations and banking.
For example, Joe Dough wants to franchise a branch of Betty’s Bake Shop. He establishes his LLC as Joe Dough LLC, then files a DBA to run his bakery under the Betty’s Bake Shop name and brand. This lets the state (and his customers) know that he’s running his business as Betty’s Bake Shop.
DBA vs. LLC: What's the difference?
A DBA and an LLC both relate to your business’s name, but they serve different purposes. DBAs change your public-facing image and branding. They let you use a different name than your business’s official legal name without changing its structure. In contrast, an LLC is a type of business structure designed to help minimize personal risk. An LLC can even register for a DBA to operate under a different name.
The key difference between a DBA and an LLC lies in legal and financial protection. An LLC is a separate legal entity from its owners, which means it provides limited liability protection to help shield your personal assets — like your home, car and savings — from business debts and lawsuits. LLCs also offer flexibility in how your business is taxed, which can provide potential tax advantages depending on your situation. In contrast, a DBA offers no liability protection and no tax flexibility; it’s just a registered nickname for your business. That means if a DBA-operated business is sued, the owners can remain personally liable.
How to set up a DBA
Registering a DBA is typically straightforward — however, requirements can vary state by state. Here’s what the process could look like:
- Pick your name: Choose a business name that’s memorable, unique and relevant to establish credibility and help customers find you.
- Conduct a name search: Before you register, make sure your desired name is not already in use by another business in your state or county. Visit the website of your state's business registration authority or your local county clerk's office to confirm.
- Obtain and complete a DBA form: Once you’ve confirmed your desired name is available, get the official DBA registration form. It can usually be downloaded online from your state's or county's official government website or picked up in person.
- File the form and pay the fee: After you complete the form, you’ll need to submit it and pay the filing fee to the appropriate government office in person, by mail or online depending on your location.
- Publish your DBA name: Some states may require you to publish your DBA name in a local newspaper for a period of time to inform the public of your business’s new name.
- Renew your DBA: A DBA registration typically needs to be renewed every few years. It’s important to check that your registration remains active with your state.
What to do after setting up a DBA
Once you’ve successfully registered your DBA, it’s time to put your new name to use. Here are the key steps to take after setting up your DBA:
- Open a business bank account: This is a crucial step for separating your business and personal finances. Most banks require a DBA filing for you to open a business bank account under your new name.
- Build a brand identity: Now that you have a name, you can professionally brand your company. This includes designing marketing materials — like a logo, business cards and a professional-looking website — but also includes establishing a brand story that resonates with your consumers.
- Set up your financial operations: Once you’ve set up your bank account, you can use your DBA name on invoices and focus on creating a system for tracking expenses. This will allow you to keep detailed records to prepare for tax season.
- Update your public presence: Keep your new brand identity consistent by updating your name wherever it shows up. This includes your website, social media profiles and any other marketing materials.
DBA FAQs
Still unclear about DBAs? Check out our answers to common questions.
What does DBA stand for?
The acronym "DBA" stands for "doing business as."
How do I check if a DBA is available?
You can check your state's business registration authority to make sure the name is not already in use by another business.
Do I need a DBA for my LLC?
Not unless you want to use a name for a brand or service that is different from your LLC's legal name. Then you would need to register a DBA.
Can a DBA have an EIN?
Yes, a business operating under a DBA can obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) by applying for it on the IRS websiteOpens overlay.
Can a DBA be used for multiple businesses?
Yes, you can register multiple DBAs to operate different brands under a single legal entity like a sole proprietorship or an LLC.
Do I need to renew a DBA?
Yes, since a DBA isn’t permanent in most states, you may need to renew your registration for it to stay active. Check your state or county's specific requirements.
