How to Register a DBA in Connecticut
Registering a Connecticut DBA, known as a fictitious name, is a simple process that you complete with the town or city where you do business. The filing fee varies by town, but is usually between $5 and $10. DBAs in Connecticut do not expire, and the filing fee is a one-time charge.
You can hire a professional service such as LegalZoom to file your DBA for you. Their packages start at $99 (plus state fees). The first step to filing a DBA in Connecticut is choosing the name and making sure it’s available. Your name can be similar to other business names, but it’s still a good practice to create a unique name.
Overview of DBA Filing in Connecticut
A DBA, also called a Trade Name, Fictitious Name, or Assumed Name, allows you to conduct business under a name that’s different from your legal business name. Sole proprietorships and general partnerships are the most common entities to register for a DBA. Using the owner’s name for the business name works for many self-employed business owners, however many entrepreneurs want to operate under a distinct and brandable business name.
Important Details on DBA Registrations
A business in Connecticut that wants to use a registered name must file a DBA in the city where the company is located. The process is similar from city to city because Connecticut regulates DBAs. For stronger legal rights to your name, you can apply to trademark your DBA name at the federal level.
Cost and Process for DBA Filing in Connecticut
How much does a DBA cost in CT? DBAs in Connecticut do not expire. The filing fee varies by town, but is usually between $5 and $10. You can hire a professional service to file your DBA for you. Their packages start at $99 plus state fees.
The first step is choosing the name and making sure it’s available. Your name can be similar to other names but still create a unique name.
Connecticut law requires filing a trade name registration with the local municipality – the city or town where you conduct business. Though each city has a different form, the process is universal.
A DBA allows conducting business under a name different from your legal business name. Sole proprietorships and partnerships commonly register for a DBA. Using the owner’s name works for self-employed owners, but many want to operate under a distinct, brandable business name.
To use a registered name, businesses must file a DBA in their city. Connecticut regulates the process. You can apply to trademark your DBA name for stronger legal rights.