How To Get a DBA in Delaware in Three Steps
To obtain a trade name in Delaware (also known as a DBA, you must choose an available name, have a Delaware business license, and file the Trade Name Application with the Division of Revenue through Delaware’s One Stop portal.
Register your DBA with confidence through our trusted partner LegalZoom.
A DBA means “doing business as” and allows small business owners to use a name that is different from their legal business name. This may also be called a “Delaware trade name” or “assumed business name.”
You may want a DBA if you are a sole proprietorship, and the business is in your own name or if you want to use a name that is different from the legal name of your business entity. For example, if you are a sole proprietor with a car detailing service, you could use a name like “Precision Car Detailing” instead of your name “Joe Smith” to appear more professional. Or if your business has a generic name such as “JS Services LLC” you may want to distinguish it as a type of business such as “JS Landscaping Services.”
Learn how to register a Delaware DBA and get answers to frequently asked questions.
Do I Need a DBA in Delaware?
Yes, under 6 Del. C. §3101, If you want a different name from your legal business name, you should register for a DBA. You may want a DBA to build your brand or have a memorable name, and registering for a DBA is less expensive than starting up a new legal entity such as a corporation or LLC. You should decide if a DBA is helpful for your Delaware business.
Delaware does not charge a penalty for failure to register a DBA, but if you don’t, it may lead to brand confusion, and other entities may try to claim your DBA name or institute legal action that you are infringing on their name.
3 Steps To Get a DBA in Delaware
Conduct Name Search
Before you register for a DBA in Delaware, you want to make sure the name is available for use. The best way is to search in Delaware, on the internet, and with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). You can determine if the name is being used by another business or registered as a trademark.
- Search in Delaware. Delaware has an online database for trade, business, and fictitious names to search for names in use.
- Search on the Internet. You can Google the name and see what pops up or use a website builder to search to see if the name is available. There is also a website to look up domain registrations on ICANN.
- Search with USPTO. The USPTO has a trademark database to search for your business name.
If your name is available, you may want to consider registering the domain name or applying for a trademark to have exclusive rights to the name. If you haven’t already formed a corporation or limited liability company (LLC), you can register one with the Secretary of State’s office. Forming an LLC or corporation in Delaware also serves as your business name registration.
Get a Business License
To register a trade name, your business must have a valid Delaware business license.
If you do not have a business license, you must apply for one with the Division of Revenue.
If your business is based outside of Delaware, you can register a name by selecting the Trade Name – Only License option from the Delaware Division of Revenue.
Complete Trade Name Registration
Effective in 2026, trade names are managed by the Division of Revenue through Delaware One Stop.
Complete the form on One Stop. You will need the following information:
- The trade name
- A valid Division of Revenue Business License
- The legal name of your business entity
- Names of all owners, members, or partners
- The formation date of your business
- A brief description of your business activity
The filing fee is $25.
After DBA Registration
Once you have confirmation that Delaware accepted your DBA filing, you do not have to renew your registration. However, it is a good idea to keep your business information up to date. If there is a change, you can file a Update to a Trade Name on One Stop. You may also want to add the DBA to any business licenses, bank accounts, or insurance policies.
Unlike other states, there are no requirements to publish your DBA in local newspapers.
If you want to terminate your registration, you can file a Termination of Trade, Business & Fictitious Name on One Stop.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware DBAs
Yes, Delaware changed its procedures so filings are done online.
You may have multiple DBAs in Delaware. There is no limit.
No. A DBA does not offer legal protection for your personal assets, so if you are a sole proprietor, you still have personal liability risk. The only way an entrepreneur can protect their personal assets is to form a legal business entity such as an LLC, corporation, or limited partnership.
No. If you have a Delaware LLC or corporation, you can use the same EIN for your assumed name. As a sole proprietor, you can use your social security number for tax purposes.
Summary
In Delaware, a trade name (also known as a DBA) is a name used by a business that differs from its legal name. It does not provide personal asset protection. Delaware revised its process for Trade Name Registrations in 2026. You must choose an available trade name, get a Delaware business license, and file online with the Delaware One Stop portal. The registration fee is $25.
Need Help Filing Your DBA?
You can consult a local business attorney who can advise you about your business structure and if a DBA is advantageous or necessary.
Or you can let our trusted partner LegalZoom handle your name search and DBA application filing for $99 plus filing fees.
Disclaimer: The information presented here does not constitute legal advice or representation. It is general and educational in nature, may not reflect all recent legal developments, and may not apply to your unique facts and circumstances. Consider consulting with a qualified business attorney if you have legal questions.
FindLaw will earn a commission if you purchase business formation products through these affiliate links.
Meet FindLaw’s trusted partner LegalZoom, an industry leader in online business formations
Start your DBA registration in minutes!
Establish a DBA for your business with LegalZoom’s simplified registration process.
DBA registration starts at $99 + filing fees.
Prefer to work with a lawyer?
Helpful Links
Meet FindLaw’s trusted partner LegalZoom, an industry leader in online business formations
Need Help Registering Your DBA?
FindLaw’s trusted partner, LegalZoom, provides a straightforward process to register your DBA. Join the millions who launched their businesses with LegalZoom.
DBA registration starts at $99 + filing fees.