A crucial step in creating your brand and identity is picking the ideal name for your company. Navigating the numerous words linked with business names, however, can be challenging. DBA and trade name are two phrases that are frequently used interchangeably. But are they actually equivalent?
Doing business as, or DBA, is a legal term that describes when a company is operating under a name other than the legal name of the owner or owners. For instance, John Smith would have to submit a DBA if he owned the company John’s Landscaping but wanted to use the name Green Thumb Landscaping.
On the other hand, a trade name is only the name that a company uses to identify itself to the general public. Signs, business cards, and marketing materials all use this moniker. There are times when a company’s trade name and legal name coincide, however this is not always the case.
Therefore, in response to your inquiry, a DBA is not the same as a trade name. A trade name is just the name that a business uses to identify itself, whereas a DBA is a legal word used to signify that a business is operating under a different name than its legal name.
Checking to see if the business name you wish to use is available is one of the first steps when launching a business in Arizona. To check if the name is already in use, you can search the online database of the Arizona Corporation Commission. If the name is available, you can submit an application and pay a fee to reserve it for up to 120 days.
You must register your business name with the Arizona Corporation Commission in order to establish a sole proprietorship in the state of Arizona. This can be completed in person, by mail, or online. Additionally, you will need to get any licenses and permits your firm may require.
You must submit the following information to register your business name: the name of your company, the nature of your company (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, etc.), your name and address, and any other necessary information.
Depending on the sort of business and region, a business license in Arizona might cost different amounts. Fees often range from $50 to $500. On the website of the Arizona Department of Revenue, you may discover additional details regarding company licensing requirements and costs.
In conclusion, despite the fact that trade name and DBA are frequently used synonymously, they are not the same thing. A trade name is just the name that a business uses to identify itself, whereas a DBA is a legal word used to signify that a business is operating under a different name than its legal name. Check to see if your desired business name is available before registering it with the Arizona Corporation Commission if you’re launching a business there. Additionally, you’ll need to get any business-related licenses and permissions, which might cost a variety of amounts.
If you meet the following criteria, you are eligible to serve as your own statutory agent in Arizona. 1. You are older than 18 years old. 2. You have an Arizona physical address that can be used as the registered office. 3. You are accessible during regular business hours to receive crucial mail and legal papers. 4. As the statutory agent for your company, you are ready to accept legal liability.
It’s crucial to remember that acting as your own statutory agent has some challenges. When you are sued, for instance, a process server will go to your registered office and hand you the court papers in front of your staff or clients. This is possibly embarrassing and bad for your company’s reputation. Additionally, you must submit a new statutory agent appointment to the Arizona Corporation Commission whenever you relocate or alter your address.