In Massachusetts, you must register a "doing business as" (DBA) certificate in each city or town where your unincorporated business operates. To register a DBA in Boston, you need to fill out the proper form. The filing fee for the business certificate in Massachusetts is $65. For non-Massachusetts residents, it is an additional $35 fee. A DBA is good for four years in Massachusetts. You will need to renew after it expires. By submitting the required information on the Business Certificate Withdrawal form, you will be able to cancel your Boston business certificate. The cost is $50.
- Identify the city or town to register your trade name.
- Obtain the registration forms required.
- For Boston, download the Business Certificate form.
- Before registering a business name, ensure it is available.
- Search existing names on the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website.
- To register in Massachusetts check name availability, choose a business structure, file paperwork with the city/town clerk.
- Fees apply.
- Consider trademark registration for added brand protection.
- Use MassTaxConnect for information.
- Filing with the Secretary of the Commonwealth helps officially register your business name.
- Follow steps on MassTaxConnect to claim your business name.
A DBA provides an alternative name for your company. Yes, if you run a business as a DBA, you can always open up an LLC down the line if you decide the business structure makes more sense for your company.
There isn’t a limit on how many DBAs a single company can use. The rules regarding how long a DBA lasts vary by state, so you should check with your state’s secretary of state or the agency with which you filed the DBA to see if a renewal is necessary and when it is due.