Steps for Filing a DBA in California
To register your fictitious business name (DBA) in California, you’ll need to visit your county clerk’s office where your business is located and obtain the necessary forms.
Cost and Time for DBA in California
How long does it take to file a DBA in California? A California DBA filing can take one to four weeks, in some cases a little longer.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in California? Fictitious Business Name (FBN) Fees. Document or Service.
DBA Requirements and Information
- If you are a foreign entity (having the principal location of business outside California), you must file with the Sacramento County Clerk.
- Nonprofits are not required to file a Fictitious Business Name Statement.
- DBAs are filed at the county level, not through the CA Secretary of State. Each county has its own forms, fees, and requirements.
Orange County DBA Information
How to File a Los Angeles County DBA. Fictitious business names can be filed online on the LA County County Clerk’s fictitious name portal.
Other Information
- Your chosen name must meet the state’s naming guidelines and be distinguishable from other names. It can’t mislead consumers about products/services offered.
- A CA DBA is valid for 5 years after filing. It must be renewed after 5 years to maintain the fictitious name.
- A sole proprietorship will do business under a fictitious name for ease of transactions. A partnership is also legally named from its owners’ names and will often make a similar choice.
Filing a Fictitious Business Name in Orange County CA
Where do I file a fictitious business name in Orange County CA? You file a DBA request in the county where you have your principal place of business. After you secure it there, you can file in other counties.
Fictitious Business Name in Orange County Recommendation
Orange County small business lawyer Andrew Gale recommends visiting the websites named below to garner business name information quickly and free of charge. It simply requires an Internet-connected device and a few minutes of time.