How Do I Get a DBA in Hawaii? Registering a DBA in Hawaii

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Step-by-Step Guide

Registering a Hawaii DBA (Doing Business As), known as a trade name, can help in establishing your business’s branding. To register a Hawaii DBA, follow these steps:

  1. Choose a unique and appropriate name for your business.
  2. Search for your Hawaii DBA name to ensure it’s unique.
  3. Publish notice of your new Hawaii trade name.
  4. Register the trade name by filing an Application for Registration of Trade Name with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

Benefits and Considerations

Having a DBA allows you to:

  • Apply for an employee identification number, or EIN.
  • Hire employees or freelancers.
  • Operate under a name other than your legal name.
  • Open and manage business accounts more easily.

Why Choose DBA Over LLC?

  • A DBA is simpler and cheaper to register compared to an LLC.
  • Allows operating under your business name if not already claimed.
  • Does not provide asset protection like an LLC does.
  • Provides no limited liability protection, meaning owners could be personally liable for company debts.

Costs and Timeframe

  • The fee to register a DBA in Hawaii: $50
  • Processing time: 7-10 days
  • There are no restrictions on the number of DBAs an LLC can have.

Remember to check the availability of a web domain to keep branding and marketing seamless.

Filing vs. Using a Service

  • You can register your DBA on your own, which isn’t difficult, but using a trusted service like LegalZoom simplifies the process. Packages start at $99 (plus state filing fees).

FAQs and Processing

  • Is a DBA the same as a trade name? Yes.
  • Can I reserve a DBA in advance? Yes.
  • Can I change my registered DBA? Yes, by filing an amendment.

Hawaii DBA Filing Process

All Hawaii DBA orders are refundable before payment to the Department of Commerce, minus a $25 cancellation fee and processing expenses. After payment, cancellations or changes cannot be accepted.

Difference Between DBA and LLC

A DBA does not provide liability protection, while an LLC does. The choice often comes down to the simplicity and affordability of a DBA vs. the legal paperwork and liability protection offered by an LLC. The differences impact the choice between them.

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