The terms “DBA” and “fictitious name” are interchangeable when referring to the same thing. Both phrases refer to a name that a business uses that is distinct from its legal name, and essentially a DBA name is a false name. What does “fictitious name” actually mean?
A business may employ a name that differs from its official name; this is known as a fictitious name. To establish a business under the name “Smith’s Handyman Services,” for instance, you would need to register that name as a fictitious name if your legal name is John Smith. Can I submit an online DBA application?
Yes, you can submit an online DBA application in Virginia through the website of the Virginia State Corporation Commission. You must register for an account on the website, complete the application form, and pay the registration cost in order to apply for a DBA online.
An LLC and a DBA are two distinct entities. Simply said, a DBA is a name that a company uses that differs from its official name. An LLC, on the other hand, is a business entity that shields its owners from liabilities. A DBA is only a name that a business uses, however when you create an LLC, you are forming a distinct legal entity from its owners.
In conclusion, the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s website makes the process of getting a fictitious name in Virginia a comparatively quick and easy one. You can conduct business under a name other than your legal name with a fictitious name, sometimes referred to as a DBA name. It’s crucial to understand that a DBA differs from an LLC, a business entity that shields its owners from liabilities. It’s always a good idea to seek legal advice if you’re not sure if you need a DBA or an LLC.
A fictitious name certificate, commonly referred to as a trade name or DBA (doing business as), is a registration form that permits a company to conduct business under a name other than its legal name. This gives the company the ability to transact business and advertise using a name other than the one that is registered with the state. If a business intends to use a name different than its legal name in Virginia, it must get a fictitious name certificate.