So what exactly is a DBA (Doing Business As)? Also known as an "Assumed Business Name" or a "Fictitious Business Name," a DBA essentially provides the public with the ability to know who the real owner of a business or company is, as a DBA serves as the operating name of the company, rather than the legal name.
The DBA was initially created as a way to further protect consumers, as it was created in order to prevent corrupt business owners from operating under different company names in order to avoid getting into legal trouble.
There are generally two reasons a business that is operating within the United States would require a DBA:
There are a number of reasons that you should file a DBA:
Every county and state will have separate fees, forms, rules, and requirements when it comes to filing a DBA, so it is imperative that you look up your specific state or county to ensure that you are filing the correct documents. The Small Business Administration (SBA) can also be a useful resource, as they outline the various requirements for DBAs according to each state. MyLLC.com provides DBA services for their clients and have experts available to answer any questions you might have.
Bottom Line: Not only will filing a DBA ensure that you remain in good legal standing, it can also help you to expand your business without breaking the bank.