Finance & Accounting
Definition
A DBA (Doing Business As), also called a trade name or fictitious business name, allows a business to legally operate under a name different from its registered legal entity name. Sole proprietors, partnerships, and LLCs commonly file DBAs to create distinct brand identities without forming a separate legal entity.
When a sole proprietor named Jane Smith wants to run a consulting firm as 'Apex Strategy Group,' she files a DBA to operate legally under that trade name. Similarly, an LLC registered as 'Smith Holdings LLC' might file a DBA to open a retail location under the name 'Downtown Hardware.' DBAs do not create a separate legal entity — the underlying entity (the individual or company) remains liable. Requirements vary by state and county: most jurisdictions require filing with the county clerk or secretary of state, publication in a local newspaper, and periodic renewal. A DBA does not grant trademark protection — two businesses in the same county can potentially hold the same DBA name. For branding and customer-facing purposes, DBAs are flexible and inexpensive; for strong brand protection, trademark registration is required. Banks typically require a DBA registration to open a business bank account under a trade name. A single LLC can hold multiple DBAs — useful for operating distinct business lines under one legal entity.
Filing a DBA is a straightforward but legally necessary step for anyone operating under a name different from their personal name or registered entity name. Getting it wrong — missing county publication requirements or renewal deadlines — can void the registration and create banking and contracting complications. An accountant or business attorney can confirm your state's requirements, help you choose the right entity structure, and ensure your DBA is properly registered before you start accepting payments.