How Long Does a DBA Last in Illinois?

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Overview of Illinois DBA Registration

  • An Illinois DBA lasts forever for sole proprietors. Other business entities will have to renew it every five years.
  • The fee to renew your assumed name is $150, with a $100 penalty for late renewal.
  • DBAs are a fictitious name used to conduct business under a different legal name.
  • The purpose of registering a DBA name is to notify the public that a business is conducting activities under a different name.

DBA Registration Steps in Illinois

  1. DBA Name Search:

    • Ensure your desired name is available before registering a DBA name in Illinois.

  2. Application Filing:

    • File the Application to Adopt an Assumed Name completely online for $30-$150, following on-screen instructions and payment via credit card.

DBA Requirements and Regulations

  • DBA laws protect consumers and notify the public.
  • DBAs alone are not legal entities; you need an existing registered business first.
  • DBA names in Illinois must meet specific standards.

Do I Need to Register a DBA in Illinois?

  • Sole proprietorships must register any name besides the owner’s.
  • Corporations and LLCs don’t need a DBA unless using a business name different from their formation certificate.

DBA Registration Process in Illinois

  • Start with an Illinois Assumed Name Search to ensure the chosen name is available.
  • File the certificate of assumed name with your county clerk to complete registration.

DBA Costs and Considerations

  • Filing fees in Illinois vary depending on the year and filing type.
  • Other states may have cheaper and uniform DBA filing fees.

Multiple DBAs in Illinois

  • It is possible to register and own multiple DBAs in Illinois; no limit exists as long as fees are paid for each.
  • Assumed business names in Illinois must meet certain naming standards.

Filing for Different Business Structures

  • Sole proprietors and general partnerships must file a DBA with the county clerk.
  • LLCs or corporations can register a DBA through the Secretary of State’s office.

Professional Assistance for DBA Filing

  • Services like LegalZoom offer assistance with DBA filing at a starting price of $99 plus state fees.

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