What is a DBA?
DBA stands for “doing business as.” Filing for a DBA allows you to operate under an assumed, trade or fictitious name. It allows you to conduct business under a name other than your own.
Registering a DBA
You can obtain a DBA by first getting your seller’s permit and business license. Then file for a DBA through your county or state office and pay the registration fee.
Using a DBA allows you to convey your brand and identity easier than using your personal name LLC. DBAs make expanding your business easier. You can use DBAs to operate different “sub-businesses” of the main business.
Legal Aspects and Taxation
Your DBA is different from your name as the business owner or your business’s legal, registered name. It is a legal procedure that does not enable dishonest business people to avoid legal trouble while dealing with you.
Do I need to file a DBA with the IRS?
Registering for a DBA does not replace the legal name of your business for federal tax purposes. Banks often require sole proprietorships and partners in general partnerships to have a DBA before opening a business bank account.
If you plan to use a business name other than your own, you must register a DBA with your state. If you are unsure if you need to register a DBA, the Small Business Administration is a resource.