DBA means "doing business as." It is a fictitious or assumed name under which a business operates. Registering a DBA allows a business to use a name other than its legal entity name for branding and marketing purposes. For example, a sole proprietor named John Smith could register a DBA "John’s Landscaping" to promote his landscaping business.
Reasons for Using a DBA
Key reasons to use a DBA include:
- Establishing a distinct brand identity
- Keeping personal information private
- Conveying the business’ purpose through a descriptive name
- Facilitating expansion plans
Registration Process
DBA registration involves filing a DBA form with the state to legally announce the business will operate under an assumed name. Additional requirements may apply depending on location and business structure. Ultimately, proper DBA registration benefits businesses by enabling customized branding while remaining legally compliant.
The DBA is a terminal degree in business administration. Individuals with the degree are awarded the academic title doctor and can be addressed using the English honorific “Dr.” or the post-nominal letters “DBA” or “PhD.” A DBA is a professional doctorate focused on applying theoretical knowledge in business practice, whereas a PhD candidate focuses on contributing to scholarship.
DBA and Business Operation
A company uses a doing business as (DBA) when the name it operates under is different from its legal, registered name. The benefits of using a DBA include the ability to operate under a pseudonym, which can be a valuable asset for branding and privacy. Registering a DBA is often straightforward and typically takes about one to four weeks, depending on the jurisdiction.
Legal Considerations
A DBA provides no limited liability protection, meaning the individual is responsible for the business’s debts and obligations. While a DBA name can define and set apart your business, it does not grant exclusivity.
Creating an assumed name with a DBA can benefit any business structure seeking to set itself apart from the competition, whether for branching into new markets or for enhancing the business’s public presence.