If you are planning to start a business in California, you may need to file a fictitious business name, also known as a Doing Business As (DBA), if you are planning to use a name that is different from your own name or the name of your business entity. Fortunately, filing a DBA in California is a simple and straightforward process. In fact, you can file a fictitious business name online in California.
1. Choose a name for your business: Before you can file a fictitious business name, you will need to choose a name for your business that is not already in use by another business in your area.
2. Check for availability: Once you have chosen a name for your business, you will need to check if the name is available for use. You can do this by searching the California Secretary of State’s website or by conducting a business name search on the county clerk’s website.
3. Register your fictitious business name: After you have confirmed that the name is available, you can file a fictitious business name registration form with the county clerk’s office in the county where your business is located. You can file the form in person or online.
4. Publish your fictitious business name: After you have filed the registration form, you will need to publish your fictitious business name in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where your business is located. You will need to publish the name once a week for four consecutive weeks.
Coming up with a business name can be a daunting task, but it is an important step in starting a business. When choosing a name for your business, you should consider the following:
2. Keep it simple: Avoid using long or complicated names that are difficult to spell or pronounce.
4. Be original: Choose a name that is unique and not already in use by another business in your area.
Yes, a DBA can have two owners. A DBA is not a legal entity and does not provide any liability protection, so it is possible for two or more individuals to operate a business under a DBA.
Yes, you can register a business name and not use it. However, if you decide not to use the name, you will need to file a statement of abandonment with the county clerk’s office to cancel the registration.
Yes, an LLC can have a DBA in California. However, the LLC must be registered with the California Secretary of State before it can file a DBA registration with the county clerk’s office.