Opening a Business Account with a DBA: What You Need to Know

Can you open a business account with a DBA?
Yes, you can open a business bank account as a sole proprietor using a DBA. A sole proprietorship is a business owned by one person where there is no legal separation between the owner and the business.

You might be asking if you can open a business account with a DBA if you own a small business or are a solo owner. The answer is yes, but there are some details you should be aware of first. Let’s start by defining what a DBA is. Doing business as is referred to as “doing business as,” and it is also referred to as a “trade name” or “fictitious name.” It allows companies to trade under a name other than their official name. For instance, if you manage a bakery and your company’s legal name is “Jane Smith LLC,” you could conduct business as “Jane’s Sweets.”

Getting back to the issue at hand Can a DBA be used to open a business account? The answer is yes, but you’ll have to give your bank some supporting evidence. A copy of your DBA registration, which you may obtain from your state or local government, will typically be required. Your EIN (employer identification number) or social security number can also be required.

It’s important to keep in mind that some banks can have extra specifications or limitations when it comes to opening a business account under a DBA. For instance, they can demand that you maintain a minimum account balance or a specific level of business revenue. It is best to inquire about your bank’s particular criteria.

Let’s move on to some relevant questions at this point. Do each DBA require its own bank account? The answer is no, however doing so is advised. You may better manage your money by keeping separate bank accounts for each DBA, which will also simplify your accounting and tax preparation.

DBA names are they protected? Both yes and no, is the answer. Although it doesn’t offer the same degree of protection as a trademark, registering a DBA can give your company name some legal protection. Consider establishing a trademark if you want to safeguard the name of your company.

Do two companies have to use the same DBA name? No, is the response. Each DBA name must be distinct, and you are not permitted to use a name that is currently being used by another company. You can look up a name’s availability online or in your state’s company register if you’re unsure.

Can you operate your company under a new name, to finish? Yes, provided that you file a DBA. Without registering a DBA, conducting business under a different name may have legal and financial repercussions.

In conclusion, it is possible to open a business account under a DBA, but it requires some paperwork and may be subject to additional regulations from your bank. It is advised to keep distinct bank accounts for each DBA, and registering a DBA might give your company name some legal protection.

FAQ
Should I change my business name?

Depending on your unique situation and objectives, you should decide whether or not to change the name of your company. You might need to register a DBA if you’re creating a business account with a DBA (Doing Business As) and wish to do business under a name other than your legal name. If you wish to alter the name of your company, now can be an excellent time to do it, but it’s not necessary. It might not be required to change your name if you are satisfied with it and your customers can recognize it. However, altering your name could be a wise choice if you believe it does not accurately reflect your company or is creating confusion. In the end, choosing a new business name should be based on rigorous analysis of your objectives, target audience, and brand identity.