How To Get a DBA in Maine in Four Steps
The process to register a DBA (Doing Business As) in Maine, depends on your business structure. For corporations, limited partnerships, limited liability companies, and limited liability partnerships, you file a Fictitious Business Name Statement with the Maine Secretary of State. For sole proprietors or general partnerships, you register the name with the municipal clerk where your business is located.
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If you’re planning to run a business in Maine and want to operate under a name that isn’t your legal business name, you’ll need to register a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name, also called an assumed or fictitious name. Learn the steps for registering a Maine DBA.
A DBA allows entrepreneurs, sole proprietors, general partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations to use a different name for their operations, which can help with branding and marketing. In Maine, the process is straightforward but requires adherence to specific state laws.
4 Steps To Get a DBA in Maine
Choose Your Maine DBA Name
Before you can file for a DBA in Maine, you’ll need to select a unique DBA name. You must research name availability to ensure that another business entity isn’t already using the name. You can perform a name search through the Maine Secretary of State’s website to confirm availability. Keep in mind that the name must be distinguishable from existing corporate names, LLC names, and other registered business names in Maine.
Complete the Fictitious Business Name Registration Form
For corporations, LLCs, and limited partnerships:
To officially register your DBA, you’ll need to file a Fictitious Business Name Statement with the Maine Secretary of State’s Bureau of Corporations. This assumed name form will include information such as your legal business name, the DBA name you’re registering, and contact information. Be sure to choose the correct form based on your type of business.
For sole proprietorships and general partnerships:
Contact the municipal clerk where your business is located to get the registration form.
Submit the Form to the Maine Secretary of State
For corporations, LLCs, and limited partnerships:
Once your form is complete, submit it either online, in person, or by mail to the Maine Department’s office at 101 State House Station in Augusta. Currently the filing fee is $125, but check with the Maine Secretary of State for updated fees.
For sole proprietorships and general partnerships:
File the registration form with the municipal clerk where your business is located. The filing fee is $10 but check with your clerk’s office for updated fees.
Check for Local City or County Requirements
Some cities, such as Portland, may have additional DBA filing requirements. Be sure to check with your local city clerk’s office to determine if you need to register at the local level as well.
Managing a DBA After Registration
Once the Secretary of State accepts your DBA, you can add the name to your marketing and business insurance policies. There are other steps to take with your DBA, such as keeping the information current with the Secretary of State and renewing your DBA.
Determine If You Need an EIN
You can obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) under your legal business name. The IRS issues the EIN for your legal business name, not the DBA trade name. If you’re operating as an LLC or corporation, or if you have employees, you’ll need an EIN for your legal entity. While not every new business needs an EIN, it’s often helpful to apply for one to keep your business identity separate from your own name and personal Social Security Number.
Open Business Bank Account
Additionally, opening a business bank account under your DBA name is highly recommended. Keeping your personal assets separate from business finances helps protect your personal liability and ensures smoother financial management. Banks and credit unions will typically require your DBA registration to open an account in your DBA’s name or company name.
Additionally, if you decide to dissolve your business or stop using your DBA, you’ll need to file a statement of intention with the Secretary of State to cancel your DBA registration.
FAQs About Maine DBAs
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you want to operate your business under a name other than your legal name or the name of your Maine LLC or corporation, you must file a DBA in Maine.
DBA stands for “Doing Business As.” It allows business owners to operate under a name other than their legal business name, which is listed on their business license or registration.
To dissolve a DBA in Maine, you need to file a statement of intention with the Maine Secretary of State to cancel your DBA registration.
An assumed name in Maine is the same as a DBA, which is a name under which you conduct business that is not your legal business name.
If you want to change your DBA name in Maine, you’ll need to file an amendment with the Maine Secretary of State’s office, updating your business information.
The filing fee for a DBA in Maine depends on your business structure. Fees can range from $10 for sole proprietors to around $125 for corporations. Always check the Secretary of State’s website or your local municipal clerk’s office for the most current fee information.
You can perform a name search on the Maine Secretary of State’s website to check if your desired DBA name is available and not already in use by another business.
Maine does not require you to renew a DBA registration.
Yes, sole proprietors in Maine can use a DBA to operate under a business name other than their own legal name.
In Maine, a DBA (Doing Business As) name and a fictitious business name are essentially the same. Both allow a business to operate under a different name from the legal business name.
Why Registering a Maine DBA Is Important for Your Business
Registering a DBA for your Maine business is an important step for business owners who want to operate under a different name while maintaining their legal business entity. Whether you’re a sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, or nonprofit, filing for a Maine assumed name helps you create a strong brand identity and streamline business operations. If you need assistance with your DBA registration or have questions about Maine’s state laws, consider consulting an attorney. FindLaw’s attorney directory can connect you with legal experts familiar with Maine’s DBA process.
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.
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