Fees and Renewal
The filing fee for a business certificate (DBA) in Massachusetts is $65. For non-residents, an additional $35 fee is required. In Massachusetts, a DBA is valid for four years and must be renewed upon expiration. To change the address connected with your DBA name, a Change of Location form must be used.
The fee to file a DBA in Boston is $50. Non-residents conducting business in Massachusetts must pay an additional $35 fee. To cancel your Boston business certificate, a withdrawal form with a $50 cost must be submitted.
DBA Benefits and Considerations
Any business operating under a name different from its legal name should register a Business Certificate Name to comply with laws. DBAs are useful for various business types and purposes, such as allowing unincorporated businesses to use a name that does not include the owners’ names.
A Massachusetts DBA is an operational name for businesses of different structures, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, or corporations. This can be advantageous for branding, marketing, and overall business operations.
Filing Process
The process of filing a DBA does not occur at the state level but with the local city authorities. There is no single form for DBA filing in Massachusetts, so businesses must check with their city or town offices for the appropriate procedures and forms.
DBA Registration Steps in Georgia
- Guideline for choosing a DBA name.
- Check if the name is available.
- File with the County Clerk.
The cost to file a DBA in Georgia costs between $150-$200 depending on the county. Sole proprietorships and partnerships require a DBA for operating under a name that is not the owner’s personal name, such as "John’s Computer Repair." The filing fee for a Trade Name in Georgia ranges from $25-$214.
Legal Considerations
The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s corporate database and local databases, such as Boston’s, should be checked to ensure the business name is not already taken. Personal asset protection is available through a corporation or limited company, as DBA registration does not provide jurisdictional security for the business.