Does a Trading Name Need to Be Registered?

Definition of Company Name, Trade Name, and DBA

• A company name is the actual name of the business.
• A trade name or DBA is a way of doing business under a name filed in a state or county.
• A DBA acts as an alias used by entities for versatility.

Benefits and Registration of Trade Names

• A trade name offers advantages to a small business owner.
• It can aid in sales and marketing to attract more customers.
• To register a trade name, businesses must file paperwork with their local government.

Understanding Trade Name and DBA

• A trade name is what a business uses to identify itself.
• Other terms are "fictitious name" and "DBA."
• A trade name is usually registered with the county where the business is located.
• For example, if a grocery store chain is called “Super S Stores,” the stores run under a fictitious name.

DBA vs. Trade Name

• DBA stands for “Doing Business As.”
• A DBA is the same as a trade name or fictitious name, an alias not an actual business entity.
• It refers to a company’s trade name used for marketing, sales, and business.

Legal Implications

• A trade name, fictitious name, or DBA is an alternate name under which a business operates.
• A DBA serves as a pseudonym providing versatility.
• A company name is the actual legal name of a business.

Benefits and Registration of DBA

• A DBA can help build brand recognition and customer trust.
• Businesses typically use a DBA for marketing purposes.
• To register a DBA, paperwork must be filed with the local government.

Conclusion

• A company can simultaneously have a legal name and trade name.
• A trade name benefits small businesses, aiding in sales and marketing to attract more customers.
• A business should register any trade names it uses.