A DBA — short for 'Doing Business As' — lets you legally do business under a name that isn't your personal name or your LLC's legal name. It's one of the cheapest, most useful filings in business, and one of the most misunderstood.
What a DBA actually is
A DBA (sometimes called a 'fictitious business name,' 'trade name,' or 'assumed name') is a public registration that says: 'this person or entity is operating under this name.' It does not create a new legal entity. It does not give you trademark rights. It just makes the name-to-owner connection legal and public.
Who needs a DBA
- Sole proprietors who want to operate under any name other than their own legal name.
- LLCs and corporations that want to do business under a brand name different from their registered legal name.
- Any business that wants to open a bank account, sign contracts, or run marketing under a brand name.
How to file a DBA
- Search for the name in your state and county to confirm it isn't already in use.
- File the form with the right office — usually the county clerk (sole proprietors) or the Secretary of State (LLCs and corporations). Some states require both.
- Pay the fee — typically $10–$100 depending on jurisdiction.
- Publish a notice if your state requires it (a handful do — most don't).
- Renew on schedule — DBAs expire every 1–10 years depending on the state.
What a DBA does NOT do
- It does not create a legal entity. A sole prop with a DBA is still a sole prop — no liability shield.
- It does not give trademark protection. Anyone else can use your DBA name in commerce in another county or state. Trademarks are federal.
- It does not change your taxes. You report income exactly as you did before.
When you don't need a DBA
If you're a sole proprietor operating under your full legal name, no DBA is required. If your LLC's legal name is the name you're already using publicly, no DBA is required.
Frequently asked questions
Is a DBA the same as an LLC?+
No. A DBA is just a name registration. An LLC is a legal entity that creates a liability shield. Many businesses have both.
Can I open a bank account with just a DBA?+
Yes. Banks will accept a sole proprietor's DBA filing and Social Security number, or an LLC's DBA along with the LLC's EIN.
How much does a DBA cost?+
Usually $10–$100, plus optional publication costs in states that require notice.