How to Get a DBA Name in California 2024: A Complete Guide

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How to Get a DBA Name in California

If you want to use a different name other than the legal name for your business in California, you must file a DBA (Doing Business As) name. The public, specifically your potential customers, will recognize your business by its registered legal name. Using a trade name or DBA in marketing and sales can help your California LLC reach a wider audience.

California, also known as The Golden State, has specific regulations for filing a DBA name. However, these regulations can vary depending on your business structure. At LLCBase, we understand that forming a business can be an overwhelming experience, so we are here to help you every step of the way. This article will provide the essential steps to obtain a DBA Name in California.

Get a DBA Name

What is a DBA

A DBA, which stands for “Doing Business As,” is a name under which a business operates that differs from its legal name. It is also known as a trade, assumed, or fictitious name. A DBA allows business owners, such as sole proprietors, general partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations, to conduct business under a separate name without creating a new legal entity.

Registering a DBA is important for several reasons, including legal compliance, branding, and customer recognition. The process for obtaining a DBA varies by jurisdiction and may require filing with a state or county government office. Researching local regulations and following the steps to register your DBA name properly is essential.

Understanding DBA Names in California

You must choose a name when you form an LLC or any business structure. Every company has a legal name. For example, a partnership or sole proprietorship might operate under the legal name of the company’s owner or owners. The name specified in the Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization can be used by any business entity, including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and others.

There are situations when you may decide not to use your company’s registered legal name in California for various reasons. Your company’s legal name might not be relevant to your business or no longer accurately describe it. Alternatively, you might want a new name without changing your incorporation or registration documents.

If you plan to start your business in California under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must file a DBA name with California state, regardless of the type of business entity you have incorporated as (sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, or LLC).

There are no restrictions on how many DBA names you can use for your business. However, each DBA name must be filed with the state where you conduct business. This is necessary because the general public has a legal right to know whether a specific individual or company is operating under a name other than their legal name.

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How to Obtain a DBA Name in California

Want to obtain a DBA name in California? Simply follow these easy-peasy steps, and you’ll be well on your way to securing that perfect “doing business as” name in no time!

Step 1: Check Name Availability

Before filing a DBA in California, ensuring that no other business is already using your chosen name is crucial. To confirm name availability in California, search the California Secretary of State Bizfile Online database provided by the California Secretary of State. This step is important to avoid potential legal issues and confusion for customers.

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Step 2: Choose a DBA Name

In California, fictitious names cannot be identical or too similar. A DBA should avoid deceiving the public by appearing confusingly similar to any other business name. When choosing a DBA name, ensure it follows the guidelines and restrictions the California government sets. These guidelines may include avoiding certain words or phrases, such as those related to banking, insurance, or professional designations, without proper authorization.

Step 3: Register the California DBA Name

Once you have determined that the name is available for registration, complete the required forms provided by your county or the California Secretary of State. You must register your DBA name in the county where you intend to conduct business. In most California counties, specific information is required, such as the company’s name, organization type, and description of the products or services to be provided under the Fictitious Name. Carefully complete the necessary forms and ensure all information is accurate and complete.

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Step 4: Submit the Application

To file the California DBA Name, you must apply to the California Secretary of State or the appropriate county office. In California, you can file the DBA name using various methods, such as (two methods, online and by mail). The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in California is $26 for filing and $5 for each additional business name.. This fee may vary depending on the method of filing or the specific county where you are registering your DBA name.

  • Online: Check the California SOS website for the forms or city/county sites for the same
  • Offline: Check California Secretary of State website for the PDF Form

Step 5: Use the California DBA Name

Once your DBA name is registered and approved, you can use it in your business operations. Be prepared to provide three “specimens” demonstrating the Trade Name used, such as business cards, booklets, flyers, labels, or stickers. These specimens may be requested by the California Secretary of State or the county office as proof of usage. Properly displaying your DBA name in your marketing materials, signage, and other business documents is essential to ensure customers and clients know your new trade name.

Following these steps, you can obtain a DBA name in California and use it to enhance your business’s visibility and reach.

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DBA Name in California: A Detailed Guide

Read the comprehensive guide to renewing and changing a DBA name in California:

Renewing a DBA Name in California

It is essential to renew your DBA name periodically to maintain its validity. In most states, renewing a DBA name follows the same process as filing a new DBA name. Every five years, you should renew your California DBA to ensure continued compliance with state regulations.

To renew your DBA name in California, follow these steps:

  1. Check the renewal deadline: Be aware of the renewal deadline for your DBA name, typically every five years. Missing the deadline may result in penalties or loss of your trade name rights.
  2. Complete the renewal application: Obtain the renewal application from the California Secretary of State or the appropriate county office. Fill out the required information, including updates on your business address, contact information, and a description of the products or services provided under the Fictitious Name.
  3. Submit the renewal application: Submit the completed renewal application to the California Secretary of State or the appropriate county office by the deadline. Be prepared to pay the renewal fee, which may vary depending on the method of submission or the specific county where you are renewing your DBA name.
  4. Receive confirmation: Once your renewal has been processed and approved, you will receive confirmation from the California Secretary of State or the county office. Keep this documentation for your records.

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Changing a DBA Name in California

If you need to change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name), apply to the California Secretary of State (SOS) or the appropriate county office. The process for changing a trading name is similar to registering a new DBA. You can reserve your DBA name for five years.

To change your trade name in California, follow these steps:

  1. Check name availability: Before applying for a new trade name, ensure that another business still needs to use the desired name. Search the California Government Records Inquiry System or the California Secretary of State Bizfile Online database provided by the California Secretary of State to confirm business name availability in California.
  2. Complete the change application: Obtain the trade name change application from the California Secretary of State or the appropriate county office. Fill out the required information, including the current and new trade names you wish to use.
  3. Submit the change application: Submit the completed change application to the California Secretary of State or the appropriate county office. Be prepared to pay the change fee, which may vary depending on the submission method or the county where you change your DBA name.
  4. Receive confirmation: Once your trade name change has been processed and approved, you will receive confirmation from the California Secretary of State or the county office. Keep this documentation for your records and update all relevant business materials with the new trade name.

FAQs

What is a DBA in California?
A DBA in California is a “doing business as” name that a business owner uses as a “fictitious business name,” which means the business is operating under a name different from the legal name of the owner.
Who needs a DBA in California?
In California, any person, sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or other entity that conducts business under a name different from the owner’s or entity’s legal name needs a DBA.
How do I know if a DBA name is available in California?
In California, you can search for available DBA names using the online database of the California Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in California?
In California, the filing fee for a DBA is usually around $26.
How long does it take to get a DBA in California?
In California, the turnaround time for processing a DBA application can vary, but it usually takes up to four weeks.
Can I use a DBA without filing it in California?
No, you cannot use a DBA without filing it in California. Failing to file a DBA name could result in fines or legal trouble.
How do I file a DBA in California?
In California, you can file for a DBA by submitting Form 26 to the county clerk’s office where your business address is located.
Do I need to register my DBA in every county where I operate in California?
Yes, you must register your DBA in every county where your business operates.
Can someone else use my DBA name in California?
No, other businesses are not allowed to use your registered DBA name in California.
Can I change my DBA name in California?
Yes, you can change your DBA name in California. You will need to file a new DBA form with the county clerk’s office and publish notice of the change in a newspaper.
Are there any restrictions on DBA names in California?
Yes, there are rules and restrictions on DBA names in California. Names must meet certain requirements related to the business activities, advertising, and clarity.
Can I use a personal name as my DBA in California?
Yes, you can use your personal name as your DBA name in California.
How do I publish a DBA in California?
In California, the law requires you to publish a statement about your DBA name change in a newspaper of general circulation within 30 days following filing.
How long does a DBA last in California?
A DBA in California expires five years after the filing date.
How do I renew my DBA in California?
In California, you can renew your DBA by filing a new DBA statement with the county clerk’s office and publishing a notice of renewal in a newspaper.
Can I dissolve my DBA in California?
Yes, you can dissolve your DBA in California by completing and submitting Form AB-211 to the county clerk’s office.
What penalties do I face if I don’t register my DBA in California?
The penalties for not registering your DBA name in California can result in monetary fines or legal troubles.
What if my business address changes in California?
If your business address changes in California, you must file an amendment to your DBA statement with the county clerk’s office.
How do I transfer my DBA in California to a different business owners?
You can only transfer a DBA to a new owner by filing a statement of abandonment for the current applicant and then filing a new DBA application for the new applicant.
Can I operate my business under a DBA without a business license in California?
No, operating without a business license in California even under a registered DBA is prohibited by law.
Can I have multiple DBAs for one business in California?
Yes, you can have multiple DBA names for one business in California.
Can I change my business structure and keep my existing DBA in California?
No, if you change your business structure, you would need to update your business registration and file for a new DBA if necessary in California.
Do I need to get a separate DBA for each business location in California?
No, you only have to file one DBA for your business, and you can operate under that name at all business locations in California.
How do I know if my business needs a DBA in California?
If you operate your business under a name other than your legal name or your business entity’s legal name, then you’ll need to register a DBA name in California.
What happens if my DBA gets rejected in California?
If your DBA gets rejected in California, you won’t be able to use the DBA, or you’ll need to resubmit your application.
Can I use a DBA name that is similar to an existing business in California?
No, you should not use a DBA name that may cause confusion or impersonates an already existing company’s similar name.
Can I add or remove the DBA part from my business name in California?
Yes, you can add or remove the DBA designation; however, if you stop using a DBA, you should update business licensing and tax boards affiliated documentation in California.
Do I need to display my DBA registration in California?
Yes, businesses operating under a fictitious name are required to show the Registrant’s DBA name and city and state of the fictitious name registration on their business premises signage and storefront advertising in California.
What happens if I don’t renew my DBA on time in California?
Not renewing your DBA on time will result in the release of your DBA name by the California county authorities.
What is a DBA name?
A DBA (doing business as) name is a fictitious name under which an individual or entity can conduct business.
Who needs a DBA name in California?
Anyone doing business under a fictitious name in California needs to register for a DBA.
How is a DBA name registered in California?
A DBA name can be registered by submitting a completed form to the county clerk’s office in the county where the business is located.
What type of business can register for a DBA name in California?
Any business that is operating under a name that is different than the established legal name of the company needs to register a DBA.
Do partnerships in California need to register a DBA name?
Yes, all partnerships in California that are operating under a name that is different than the established legal name of the company need to register a DBA.
Are there any exceptions to who needs to register for a DBA name in California?
There are no exceptions to the requirement to register for a DBA name in California if you are doing business under a fictitious name.
How long does the registration process take in California?
The registration process usually takes about 4-6 weeks in California.
Is it possible to register a DBA name online in California?
It is not possible to register a DBA name online in California. Registration must be done in person or via mail.
Is it possible to look up whether a business has registered a DBA name in California?
Yes, you can search the California Secretary of State’s business entity database to look up whether a business has registered a DBA name.
How long is a DBA name registration valid in California?
A DBA registration is valid for five years in California.
Is it possible to renew a DBA name registration in California?
Yes, a DBA name registration can be renewed in California if it is done so before the expiration date.
Can a DBA name be transferred to another business in California?
A DBA name cannot be transferred to another business in California. Each business must register its own DBA name.
What happens if a business operates using a DBA name without registering it in California?
If a business operates using a DBA name without registering it in California, it may be subject to fines and other penalties.
Can an individual use a DBA name in California?
Yes, an individual can use a DBA name in California if they are operating a business under a fictitious name.
How much does it cost to register for a DBA name in California?
Fees for registering a DBA name in California vary by county, but generally cost about $25-$35.
Is there a deadline to register for a DBA name in California?
There is no specific deadline for registering a DBA name in California, but it should be done before conducting business under a fictitious name.
Do non-California businesses need to register for a California DBA name?
Non-California businesses that are conducting business in California under a fictitious name need to register for a DBA.
Can a business have multiple DBA names in California?
Yes, a business can have multiple DBA names in California as long as each name is registered separately.
Can a DBA name be reserved in California?
A DBA name cannot be reserved in California. It must be registered in the county where the business is located.
What information is needed to register for a DBA name in California?
Information needed to register for a DBA name in California includes the name of the registrant, the proposed DBA name, and the address of the business.
Is it possible to use a DBA name to avoid paying taxes in California?
No, using a DBA name does not exempt a business from taxes in California.
Can a DBA name be changed in California?
Yes, a DBA name can be changed in California by filing a new registration form with the county clerk’s office.
Is a registered trademark required for a DBA name in California?
A registered trademark is not required for a DBA name in California, but it is recommended to check for trademark conflicts before registering a name.
Does a DBA name provide any legal protection in California?
No, registering for a DBA name in California does not provide any legal protection for the name.
Can an owner of an LLC register for a DBA name in California?
Yes, the owner of an LLC can register for a DBA name in California if they are doing business under a fictitious name.
Do corporations need to register for a DBA name in California?
Yes, corporations in California that are doing business under a fictitious name need to register for a DBA.
Are there any fees for renewing a DBA name registration in California?
Yes, there is a fee for renewing a DBA name registration in California. The fee varies by county but is generally about $20-$30.
What happens if a business moves to a different California county after registering for a DBA name?
If a business moves to a different California county after registering for a DBA name, it must re-register in the new county.

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Conclusion

Navigating obtaining, renewing, or changing a DBA name in California is essential to managing your business’s identity and growth. Following the outlined steps and adhering to state regulations ensures your business remains compliant and continues to thrive. Remember, a well-chosen trade name reflects your brand identity and helps you connect with your target audience more effectively. As your business evolves, it’s crucial to stay adaptable and responsive to the ever-changing market conditions, and having a suitable DBA name is a significant part of that journey.

So, embrace the opportunity to create a professional and friendly image for your business, and let your DBA name be the catalyst for success. Visit LLCBase today to access valuable resources and guidance tailored to your business needs.

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