How to File a Fictitious Business Name

When a company employs a name that is not the legal name of the owner or owners, that name is referred to as a fake business name. A fictional business name serves to identify the company’s owner to the general public. You must submit a fictitious business name declaration if you are beginning a business and wish to use a name that is not your own. This article will address some often asked questions about bogus company names as well as how to file a fictitious business name statement.

A corporation is a distinct legal entity from its owners. It is accountable for its own debts and liabilities and has its own legal name. Simply put, a fake business name is one that a company uses but which is not the same as the legal name of the owner or owners. A fictional business name does not transform a company into a corporation, although it is possible for one.

Yes, solo proprietors are allowed to have a business name. In fact, many sole proprietors operate under their company name rather than their individual identity. You must submit a fake business name statement if you are a lone proprietor and want to use a business name. Which is preferable, a single proprietorship or an LLC?

Your unique set of circumstances will determine the response to this inquiry. The simplest and least expensive business form to start up is a sole proprietorship, but it does not provide any protection from personal liability. Although a limited liability company (LLC) is more expensive to establish and manage, it gives protection from personal liability. An LLC might be a preferable option if you are beginning a business and want to safeguard your own assets from company responsibilities. However, a sole proprietorship might be adequate if you are just beginning off and don’t have many assets. Is the DBA the same as the fictitious name?

A fictional business name is often known as “doing business as,” or “DBA.” Therefore, the terms DBA and fictitious name are equivalent. You must submit a DBA statement, sometimes referred to as a fake business name statement, if you intend to operate under a name other than your legal name.