Learn how to file a DBA & apply online
A Small Business Plan from LegalShield makes filing and managing a DBA (Doing Business As) as simple and stress free as possible.
Do I need a DBA for my business?
A DBA (sometimes called a fictitious or assumed name) lets sole proprietors and formal business entities conduct business under a name that is different than their legal name.
- Sole proprietors must file a DBA if they want to get a separate business bank account.
- A DBA may work better for marketing and branding than using your personal name or using a legal company name if it does not quite match the nature of your business.
- If your business is a legal entity, like an LLC, you can file multiple DBAs to operate different businesses without having to create a new entity each time.
When your business is a member of LegalShield, you get unlimited phone consultations with a lawyer that can answer DBA-related questions and help you file the right documents.
How to file a DBA correctly
To make sure you’re handling the name of your business according to applicable law, be sure to take the following steps.
- Determine if you need a standard DBA or a Federal Trademark.
- Determine where to file. Depending on the location and nature of your business, you may need to file with your county, state or the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
- Search state and federal databases to make sure the name you want to use will not violate an existing DBA filing or a federally registered trademark.
- Locate and fill out and submit the appropriate government forms.
- Pay filing fees. Typically $10-$100 for standard DBAs, more for trademarks.
- Respond to any inquiries from the agency reviewing your application.
Rather than stress and guess, join LegalShield today and your lawyer will make the entire business naming and filing process as painless as possible.
Dealing with existing trademarks and name conflicts
If there is an existing company using the same or similar name you want to use, you may have a select a new name. If you have been contacted by another company that claims you are using their name, it’s a good idea to get legal advice as soon as possible.
- What should I do if the two names are an exact match?
- If the name I want to use sounds similar, is that ok?
- How do you conduct business name searches in the first place?
An experienced business lawyer can clarify your options and guide you through the naming process to ensure you’re doing everything correctly and protecting your business.
Key features of our Small Business Legal Plans
LegalShield’s business plans can help you in the following areas:
Advice, consultation and research
Legal consultation from a provider lawyer on business legal matters, with legal research for each issue, if needed.
Letters or phone calls
Receive help with business legal matters more efficiently with professional communications issued on your behalf.
Document review
Put business-related legal documents through legal review.
Collection letters
A collection letter from a provider lawyer could help you recoup payments more efficiently.
How LegalShield works
Finding solutions to your legal issues doesn’t have to be stressful, complicated or expensive. LegalShield puts the power of legal representation within reach of any individual, family, or business. We work hard to make it easy, simple, and affordable to get the legal help you need, when you need it.
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