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

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How to Get a DBA Name in Connecticut

If you want to use a different name other than the legal name for your business in Connecticut, 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 Connecticut LLC reach a wider audience.

Connecticut, also known as The Constitution 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 Connecticut.

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 Connecticut

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 Certificate of Incorporation or Certificate 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must file a DBA name with Connecticut 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 Connecticut

Want to obtain a DBA name in Connecticut? 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 Connecticut, ensuring that no other business is already using your chosen name is crucial. To confirm name availability in Connecticut, search the Connecticut Secretary of State Business Search database provided by the Connecticut 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 Connecticut, 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut DBA Name

Once you have determined that the name is available for registration, complete the required forms provided by your county or the Connecticut Secretary of State. You must register your DBA name in the county where you intend to conduct business. In most Connecticut 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 Connecticut DBA Name, you must apply to the Connecticut Secretary of State or the appropriate county office. In Connecticut, you can file the DBA name using various methods, such as (one method, by mail). The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in Connecticut is $10. This fee may vary depending on the method of filing or the specific county where you are registering your DBA name.

  • Online: There is no online filing available
  • Offline: For filing by mail, you must download the form, and send it to the Business Service Division, Connecticut Secretary of the State, P.O. Box 150470, Hartford, CT 06115

Step 5: Use the Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut and use it to enhance your business’s visibility and reach.

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DBA Name in Connecticut: A Detailed Guide

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

Renewing a DBA Name in Connecticut

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 Indefinite, you should renew your Connecticut DBA to ensure continued compliance with state regulations.

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

  1. Check the renewal deadline: Be aware of the renewal deadline for your DBA name, typically every Indefinite. 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut Secretary of State or the county office. Keep this documentation for your records.

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Changing a DBA Name in Connecticut

If you need to change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name), apply to the Connecticut 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 Indefinite.

To change your trade name in Connecticut, 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 Connecticut Government Records Inquiry System or the Connecticut Secretary of State Business Search database provided by the Connecticut Secretary of State to confirm business name availability in Connecticut.
  2. Complete the change application: Obtain the trade name change application from the Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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

How do I get a DBA name in Connecticut?
You need to file a Trade Name/DBA registration form with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
can I do this process online?
Yes, you can file your Trade Name/DBA registration form online on the Connecticut Secretary of State’s website.
What is a Trade Name?
A Trade Name is a name under which a business operates, also known as a DBA (Doing Business As) name.
Can I use my personal name as my business or DBA name?
Yes, you can use your personal name as your business or DBA name without registering it.
How much does it cost to file for a Trade Name/DBA registration in Connecticut?
The fee for registering a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut is $10.
Do I need to renew my Trade Name/DBA registration in Connecticut?
Yes, Trade Name/DBA registrations need to be renewed every five years in Connecticut.
Can I change my Trade Name/DBA name in Connecticut?
Yes, you can change your Trade Name/DBA name by filing an amendment to your original registration form with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
Can I have more than one Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut?
Yes, you can have multiple Trade Names/DBAs registered in Connecticut for the same business.
Can I use a Trade Name/DBA that someone else is already using in Connecticut?
No, a Trade Name/DBA must be unique and cannot be already in use in Connecticut.
How long does it take to get a Trade Name/DBA registration in Connecticut?
It typically takes about one to two weeks to get a Trade Name/DBA registration approved in Connecticut.
Do I need to register my Trade Name/DBA at the town level in Connecticut?
No, you do not need to register your Trade Name/DBA at the town level in Connecticut.
Can I advertise my business under my Trade Name/DBA before my registration is approved in Connecticut?
No, you cannot advertise your business under your Trade Name/DBA until your registration is approved in Connecticut.
Do I need to file any other forms with the state when registering my Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut?
No, you only need to file the Trade Name/DBA registration form to register your Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut.
What types of businesses need to register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut?
Any business that is using a name other than the legal name of the owner or entity needs to register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut.
Can I register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut if I’m under 18 years old?
No, you must be 18 years old or older to register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut.
Do I need to have a business license to register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut?
No, you do not need to have a business license to register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut.
Can I operate more than one business under the same Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut?
No, a Trade Name/DBA can only be used for one business in Connecticut.
Do I need to file a Tax Registration form when registering my Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut?
If your business is required to collect sales tax, you need to file a Tax Registration form separately with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.
How do I check if my Trade Name/DBA is already taken in Connecticut?
You can search the Connecticut Secretary of State’s Business Registry for existing Trade Names/DBAs.
How long can my Trade Name/DBA be in Connecticut?
The maximum length for a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut is 90 characters.
Do I need to include the suffix “LLC” or other business entity suffixes in my Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut?
No, you do not need to include any business entity suffixes in your Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut.
Can I register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut if my business is not based in Connecticut?
Yes, you can register a Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut for an out-of-state business if you are doing business in Connecticut under that name.
Can I file for expedited processing of my Trade Name/DBA registration in Connecticut?
Yes, you can request expedited processing of your Trade Name/DBA registration for an additional fee.
How can I make changes to my Trade Name/DBA registration in Connecticut?
You can make changes to your Trade Name/DBA registration by filing an amendment with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
What happens if I don’t renew my Trade Name/DBA registration in Connecticut?
Your Trade Name/DBA registration will be canceled if you do not renew it within 30 days of expiration in Connecticut.
Can I cancel my Trade Name/DBA registration in Connecticut?
Yes, you can cancel your Trade Name/DBA registration by filing a cancellation form with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
What happens if someone else is using my Trade Name/DBA in Connecticut without my permission?
You can take legal action against the individual or business using your Trade Name/DBA without your permission in Connecticut.
What is a DBA name in Connecticut?
A DBA name, also known as Doing Business As name, is a fictitious name used by a person or business entity for branding and business purposes in Connecticut.
Can anyone use an assumed name or DBA name in Connecticut?
Yes, anyone interested in doing business can register an assumed name or DBA name in Connecticut.
Who should register for a DBA name in Connecticut?
Any sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation that wants to conduct business under a different name than its legal name.
Do I need to register my DBA name with the state of Connecticut?
Yes, you must register your Connecticut DBA name with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
What are the Connecticut DBA name registration requirements?
You must file a DBA name registration with the Connecticut Secretary of State and pay the filing fee.
Where can I file a DBA name registration in Connecticut?
You can file a DBA name registration online through the Connecticut Secretary of State’s website or by mail.
When should I file my DBA name registration in Connecticut?
You should file your DBA name registration before conducting business or using the assumed name in Connecticut.
How long does it take for a Connecticut DBA name registration to be approved?
Typically, Connecticut DBA name registrations are processed within 5-7 business days.
What is the cost of filing a DBA name registration in Connecticut?
The filing fee for a DBA name registration in Connecticut is $60.
Is the Connecticut DBA name registration fee refundable?
No, the DBA name registration fee in Connecticut is non-refundable.
How long is a Connecticut DBA name registration valid?
A Connecticut DBA name registration is valid for five years.
Can I renew my Connecticut DBA name registration?
Yes, you can renew your Connecticut DBA name registration after five years by filing again with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
Can I change my DBA name in Connecticut?
Yes, you can change your Connecticut DBA name by filing a new application with the Connecticut Secretary of State and paying the filing fee.
Can I cancel my DBA name registration in Connecticut?
Yes, you can cancel your Connecticut DBA name registration by submitting the appropriate form to the Connecticut Secretary of State and paying the fee.
What is the penalty for not registering my DBA name in Connecticut?
Conducting business under an unregistered DBA name in Connecticut may result in legal and financial consequences, including fines and legal injunctions.
What information is required to register a DBA name in Connecticut?
To register a DBA name in Connecticut, you will need to provide your name or the name of your business, mailing address, the name you wish to register, and the duration of the registration.
Is Connecticut DBA name registration mandatory for home-based businesses?
Yes, registration of your DBA name is mandatory for both home-based and commercial businesses in Connecticut.
Can I use a DBA name prior to obtaining my Connecticut DBA registration?
No, you cannot use an assumed name or DBA name in Connecticut until your registration is approved.
Can more than one business use the same DBA name in Connecticut?
Yes, more than one business may use the same DBA name as long as they are not operating in the same industry.
Can I use my personal name as a DBA name in Connecticut?
Yes, you can use your personal name as a DBA name in Connecticut, as long as it is available.
Do I need to publish a notice of my Connecticut DBA name registration?
No, publication of a DBA name notice in Connecticut is not required.
Is a Connecticut DBA name registration an exclusive right to use the name in the state?
No, the registration of a DBA name in Connecticut does not grant exclusive rights to the use of the name.
Can I use my DBA name outside the state of Connecticut?
Yes, you can use your DBA name outside the state of Connecticut after complying with the registration requirements in other states.
Can a sole member LLC register a DBA name in Connecticut?
Yes, a sole member LLC can register a DBA name in Connecticut.
Can a foreign corporation register a DBA name in Connecticut?
Yes, a foreign corporation can register an assumed name or DBA name in Connecticut.
Can I change the duration of my Connecticut DBA name registration?
No, you cannot change the duration of your Connecticut DBA name registration.
Can I withdraw my Connecticut DBA name registration?
Yes, you can withdraw your Connecticut DBA name registration by completing the appropriate form and paying the fee.
Is it legal to use trademarked names as a DBA name in Connecticut?
No, it is illegal to use trademarked names as a DBA name in Connecticut and can result in legal consequences.
Can I appeal a denial of my Connecticut DBA name registration?
Yes, you can appeal the denial of your Connecticut DBA name registration to the Connecticut Secretary of State.

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Conclusion

Navigating obtaining, renewing, or changing a DBA name in Connecticut 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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