Writing Your Legal Name for DBA
The proper way to write your Legal name for DBA is to write your “doing business as” name exactly as you register it with the Secretary of State. For example, John H. Doe, a sole proprietor opening a barber shop called “Precision Barber Shop”, can register that name with his State. To acquire a DBA name, alert the state’s business registration office and provide the required documentation which may include a certificate of good standing, although this varies by state. Some states allow online registration and digital paperwork submission. Your public record will show the data you provide. Costs may be under $100. Some states take online payments; others need money orders or cashier’s checks.
Understanding the Importance of a DBA
A business license allows you or your business to engage in a specific type of business. With a properly completed DBA filing, you may still need a commercial license. Your company name is part of your business strategy. A DBA administrator can contribute. Writing a DBA is straightforward: use the other name you chose for doing business. Many sole proprietors start under their personal name. But some want privacy between themselves and their business. Filing a DBA under a different name keeps your personal name off public records.
Ensuring Compliance with DBA Regulations
You can learn to file a DBA with our state guides or use a service. A DBA does not offer personal asset protection. For that, most structure as an LLC. The proper DBA writing is the registered “doing business as” name. An assumed name is also a DBA name. Whatever your business structure – corporation, LLC, partnership or sole proprietorship – comply with state assumed name statutes if using a non-legal name.