How to Get a DBA in California: Everything You Need to Know

How do I get a DBA in California?
DBAs are sometimes known as “”trade names”” or “”fictitious names,”” and businesses must register with the California Secretary of State before conducting operations using a DBA. Step 1: Conduct a Name Search. Step 2: File Your DBA Name With Your County Clerk. Step 3: Publish Your Fictitious Business Name Statement.
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You may be asking how to obtain a DBA if you intend to launch a business in California. Using a DBA, or “doing business as,” is a legal phrase that enables you to conduct business under a name other than your own. This is especially helpful if you want to market your company differently or if you want to run several firms under several identities. In addition to outlining the procedures you must follow to obtain a DBA in California, we will also address some related queries in this post. Is a DBA Required in California?

It’s not necessary to register a DBA in California if you’re a lone proprietor or partnership. However, a DBA is required if you wish to conduct business under a name other than your own or that of your partnership. If a corporation or an LLC wants to conduct business under a name other than its legal name, it must also file for a DBA.

How to Obtain a California DBA

Select a Name in Step 1

Choosing a name is the first step in obtaining a DBA in California. Your business name needs to be original and unclaimed by other enterprises. To find out if the name you want is available, visit the California Secretary of State’s website.

Step 2: Submit a Statement of Fictitious Business Name.

You must submit a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) statement to the county clerk’s office in the county where your business is located once you’ve decided on a name. Usually, the county’s website has the relevant documents and information.

Third Step: Post Your FBN Your FBN statement must be published in a newspaper with a general distribution in the county where your business is located after you file it. For four weeks straight, you must post the message once per week.

Step 4: Submit Your FBN Statement to the Secretary of State of California You must submit a copy of your FBN statement to the California Secretary of State’s office after it is published. This can be done by mail or online. Making Use of a Trade Name You must file a trademark or service mark application with the California Secretary of State’s office if you wish to use a trade name. You will then have sole usage of the name in California as a result of this.

A Sole Trader Can Have How Many Trading Names?

As long as they are DBAs, a sole proprietor may use several trading names. It’s crucial to remember that every DBA will need its own FBN declaration and publishing.

Are Trading Names Compatible Between Two Companies?

As long as two businesses aren’t in the same sector and there’s no chance of confusion, they can both use the same trading name. To avoid any potential legal concerns, it’s generally a good idea to select an original trading name.

Finally, obtaining a DBA in California is a fairly simple procedure. You can establish your company under a different name and begin creating your brand identification by following the instructions provided in this article. Just keep in mind to select an original name, submit your FBN statement, print it in the newspaper, and submit a copy to the Secretary of State’s office in California.

FAQ
What is trade name SBA?

The query most likely refers to a “trade name DBA” rather than a “trade name SBA” DBA refers to a company that conducts business under a name other than its legal name and stands for “doing business as” in this context. Consequently, a trade name DBA is a trade name that a business employs to carry out its operations and may differ from its legal name.