What Is a DBA?
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed September 18, 2024
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A DBA means "doing business as." It's a fictitious business name that a business owner uses. In other words, it's a fictitious name created for a small business rather than forming a new business. Entrepreneurs use a DBA if their company name does not reflect a new product line or service they wish to roll out.
This FindLaw article answers frequently asked questions (FAQ) about DBAs.
Register your DBA with confidence through our trusted partner LegalZoom.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Filing a DBA by State
Registering your DBA puts the public on notice that you are using it.
Find your state below:
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Missouri
- Ohio
- Oregon
- North Carolina
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Texas (Houston)
- Utah
- Virginia
Your DBA name and DBA registration become a public record upon registration.
Get Legal Help for Your DBA
If you're unsure what you need for your business, talk to a small business lawyer in your state or the state you want to operate in.
Or you can let our trusted partner LegalZoom handle your name search, DBA application filing and publishing 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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DBA registration starts at $99 + filing fees.
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