Fictitious business names can be filed online on the LA County Clerk’s portal, ttc.lacounty.gov. To obtain copies of the forms, you can call, mail, or visit the County Clerk’s office in person without notarization. Additionally, you can reach the city of Los Angeles to get a copy of your business license at (213) 974-2011. Be sure to follow naming requirements for a DBA search on the name search page. If the name you want is not available, choose another one.
DBA Registration and Public Record
A fictitious business name statement is a public record making identities of persons doing business available. California law requires anyone doing business for profit under any name not on record with the Secretary of State to file it. DBAs establish branding as a simple way to grow a business.
Registration Process
You need to check LA County records before filing. Most use the portal to access DBA forms. You can have them mailed or visit in person without notarization. A DBA is a registration for a different name, not a business structure.
First, verify with the Secretary of State that the name is not used in California and file where your business will operate. Check the domain is available, and get feedback on messaging. Registering secures trademarks and copyrights.
To register a DBA, file a statement with the county clerk where located. Publish a notice of the fictitious name in the newspaper.
What happens if you don’t publish your fictitious business name in California?