A DBA, also known as “Doing Business As”, allows a business to operate under a different name. When a business uses a name other than its legal name, Washington state requires registering its business name.
Costs for Registering a DBA
The fee to register a Trade Name is $5. For starting a business, this $5 DBA fee is in addition to the $19 business license application fee. To acquire a DBA in Washington State, consider filing fees. These include a $5 base DBA cost and a $50 initial Business License Application fee.
Registering a Trade Name
A DBA allows a business owner to use a different business name without creating a new business entity. For example, Sarah Jones, a sole proprietor who paints houses, could legally call her business “Sarah’s Painting” instead of using her own name.
To register your trade name in Washington, complete the process online through the Department of Revenue website.
Business License and Trademarks
Virtually all businesses in Washington need to obtain a state business license by completing the Business License Application and paying a $19 fee online or by mail.
Alternatively, filing companies can register a DBA and ensure compliance with state laws and trademark laws, saving time and minimizing bureaucracy.
Benefits and Legal Compliance
Registering a Washington trade name provides branding, marketing, and legal benefits while preventing other businesses from using the same or similar name within the state.
A Washington trade name registration allows a company to operate under a name other than its legal name but does not provide liability protection. Forming an LLC or corporation can provide liability protection in addition to a business name.