How To Get a DBA in Mississippi in Three Steps
To register a DBA (Doing Business As) or “fictitious name” in Mississippi, you must choose a fictitious business name, file a Fictitious Business Name Registration with the Mississippi Secretary of State and pay a filing fee.
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If you are a small business owner you may have started your business and seen it evolve. Registering for a DBA or “doing business as” designation helps your business name evolve with your enterprise. Learn about DBAs and the three steps to get a DBA in the State of Mississippi.
What Is a DBA in Mississippi?
A DBA stands for “doing business as” and allows a business to operate under a name different from its legal, registered name. In Mississippi, a DBA is also called a “fictitious business name,” “trade name,” or “assumed name.” A sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC) that wishes to conduct business under another name should register for a fictitious name.
Do I Need a DBA in Mississippi?
There are a few reasons why you may want to register for a DBA or fictitious name in Mississippi. If you have a sole proprietorship, you operate under your personal name. You may want to choose a DBA name as an alternative and use it to describe the type of business you do. For example, Jim Smith, who does car repair, may not want to advertise as “Jim Smith” but instead have a Mississippi DBA of “JS Car Repair” or “Tupelo Car Repair.” Having a business name for your venture gives your business creditability and helps define your brand.
You may want another company name if you want to start a new business that differs from your original one. For example, if Jim Smith wanted to add car detailing services, he could file a DBA registration for another name, such as “JS Car Detailing.” That way he can advertise his car detailing services. Customers may not otherwise think that JS Car Repair does car detailing.
Three Steps To Get a DBA in Mississippi
Choose Your Business Name
You want a name that is unique and not already in use by another Mississippi business. You should also choose a name that is not trademarked or used by another company. Start your search:
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On the State Level. Use the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website to check name availability. There is no cost for name searches.
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On the Internet. You can look up the name on the internet to see if it is already in use. The website ICANN has a list of domain registrations.
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At the USPTO. You can search for your business name on the trademark database at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
If your desired name is taken, choose another. You do not want to be sued for trademark infringement, and you want to have a unique brand that is not confused with another business.
Complete the Registration Form
First, you must create an account on the Mississippi Secretary of State’s portal. Choose the “Fictitious Business Name Registration” form. This form requires basic information such as your name and address, the legal name of your business and Business ID (if you have one), the business address, and your desired fictitious business name.
Submit the Registration Form
You can submit the completed form online, by mail, or in person.
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Online: Create an account and use the Mississippi Secretary of State’s portal.
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By Mail: Send the completed “Fictitious Business Name Registration” form to:
Mississippi Secretary of State Business Services Division
P.O. Box 136
Jackson, MS 39205-0136
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In Person: The Secretary of State’s Office is located at 401 Mississippi Street, Jackson, MS 39201.
There is a filing fee of $25 for each DBA filing.
After Filing Your Mississippi DBA Name
If you need to change your Mississippi business name you must file a Fictitious Business Name Amendment with the Secretary of State.
If you want to cancel your DBA, you can file a withdrawal application on the Secretary of State’s online portal.
You may want to update your business name on your business bank account at your financial institution, on your business license, and your business insurance policies.
FAQs About Mississippi DBAs
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Mississippi Secretary of State has an online portal to apply for a DBA. Create an account and choose the Fictitious Business Name Registration form.
The filing fee for a DBA in Mississippi is $25. As fees are subject to change, check out the current fee schedule with the Mississippi Secretary of State.
No. Unlike some other states, there is no requirement to publish your fictitious business name registration in a local newspaper.
Yes. You must renew your fictitious business name by December 31st of the year of your name’s 5th anniversary. You renew through the Mississippi Secretary of State’s portal and pay a $25 renewal fee.
No. A DBA or fictitious name does not provide legal protection for your business. Only a business entity such as an LLC or corporation offers personal liability protection for your personal assets. To get a legal entity for your business, you must file paperwork for a business entity with the Mississippi Secretary of State, forming an LLC or corporation.
Additionally, a DBA registration does not give you exclusive rights to the name; it only permits you to use a different name for your business. If you want exclusive rights, you must file for a trademark registration.
No. If you have a Mississippi LLC or corporation, you can use the same Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. If you are a sole proprietor, you still use your Social Security Number for tax purposes.
Need Help With a DBA Registration in Mississippi?
Obtaining a Mississippi fictitious name is a straightforward process that helps entrepreneurs identify their business structure. However, you can consult a local business attorney if you need help.
Or, for $99 plus filing fees, you can let our trusted partner, LegalZoom, handle your name search and DBA application filing.
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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