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

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How to Get a DBA Name in Ohio

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

Ohio, also known as The Buckeye 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 Ohio.

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 Ohio

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 Ohio 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 Ohio under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must file a DBA name with Ohio 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 Ohio

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

Once you have determined that the name is available for registration, complete the required forms provided by your county or the Ohio Secretary of State. You must register your DBA name in the county where you intend to conduct business. In most Ohio 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 Ohio DBA Name, you must apply to the Ohio Secretary of State or the appropriate county office. In Ohio, you can file the DBA name using various methods, such as (two methods, by mail and in person.). The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in Ohio is Varies by county. 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 offline, you must send the accomplished DBA filing form to the Ohio Secretary of State, P.O. Box 670, Columbus, OH 43216 or drop it off in person at 180 E. Broad St., 4th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215.

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

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DBA Name in Ohio: A Detailed Guide

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

Renewing a DBA Name in Ohio

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 Ohio DBA to ensure continued compliance with state regulations.

To renew your DBA name in Ohio, 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 Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio Secretary of State or the county office. Keep this documentation for your records.

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Changing a DBA Name in Ohio

If you need to change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name), apply to the Ohio 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 Ohio, 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 Ohio Government Records Inquiry System or the Ohio Secretary of State Business Search database provided by the Ohio Secretary of State to confirm business name availability in Ohio.
  2. Complete the change application: Obtain the trade name change application from the Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio 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 name?
A DBA name, which stands for “doing business as,” is the name a business uses publicly instead of its legal name.
Why do I need a DBA name in Ohio?
If you’re conducting business under a name other than your own, you need to register a DBA in Ohio.
How do I know if I need a DBA name in Ohio?
If your business name is not your own legal name, you likely need to register a DBA in Ohio.
How do I register a DBA name in Ohio?
You can register a DBA name in Ohio by filing a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Ohio Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in Ohio?
Filing a DBA in Ohio costs $39.
Do I need a lawyer to file a DBA in Ohio?
No, you don’t need a lawyer to file a DBA in Ohio.
How long does it take to process a DBA filing in Ohio?
Processing times for DBA filings in Ohio vary, but it typically takes a few weeks.
Do I need to renew my DBA name in Ohio?
Yes, you need to renew your Ohio DBA name every five years.
Can I change my DBA name after it’s been registered in Ohio?
Yes, you can change your Ohio DBA name by filing an amendment.
Do I need to publish my DBA name in Ohio?
No, you don’t need to publish your DBA name in Ohio.
Is my Ohio DBA name automatically protected?
No, registering a DBA name in Ohio does not automatically protect it from use by others.
Do I need a separate EIN for my Ohio DBA?
No, you do not need a separate EIN for a DBA in Ohio.
Can I use my DBA name to form a corporation in Ohio?
Yes, you can use your DBA name to form a corporation in Ohio.
Can I use a home address for my Ohio DBA registration?
Yes, you can use a home address for your Ohio DBA registration.
Can I file my Ohio DBA registration online?
Yes, you can file your Ohio DBA registration online.
What happens if I don’t register a DBA name in Ohio?
If you don’t register a DBA name in Ohio, you could face legal penalties.
Can I register my Ohio DBA name in another state?
No, you must register your DBA name in any state where you conduct business, including Ohio.
Can multiple businesses use the same DBA name in Ohio?
No, two businesses can’t use the same DBA name in Ohio.
Can individuals to file a DBA name in Ohio?
Yes, individuals can file a DBA name in Ohio.
Can I use a nickname as my DBA name in Ohio?
Yes, you can use a nickname as your DBA name in Ohio.
Can I have multiple DBA names in Ohio?
Yes, you can have multiple DBA names in Ohio.
Can I file a DBA name in Ohio for a non-profit organization?
Yes, non-profit organizations can file a DBA name in Ohio.
How do I cancel my Ohio DBA name?
You can cancel your Ohio DBA name by filing a cancellation form with the Ohio Secretary of State.
Can I sell my Ohio DBA name?
Yes, you can sell your Ohio DBA name, but it must be transferred with the business it represents.
Does Ohio have any specific requirements for DBA names?
Ohio does not have any additional requirements beyond those set by the Secretary of State.
How can I check if my Ohio DBA name is available?
You can check the availability of your Ohio DBA name by searching the Secretary of State database.
Who can legally register a DBA name in Ohio?
Anyone who wants to conduct business using a name that is not their own legal name can register a DBA name in Ohio.
Do I need to file a DBA name for an online business in Ohio?
Yes, if you do business under a name that is different from your own legal name, you need to register a DBA name in Ohio.
Why do DBA registrations in Ohio need to be renewed every five years?
DBA registrations need to be renewed every five years in Ohio to ensure that they remain current and accurate.
What is a DBA?
DBA stands for “doing business as,” which is a name under which a business operates that differs from its legal name.
Do I need to register for a DBA in Ohio?
Yes, if you are using a different name for your business than your legal name, you will need to register for a DBA in Ohio.
How do I check if my desired DBA name is available in Ohio?
You can search for available names on the Ohio Secretary of State website.
What is the fee for registering a DBA in Ohio?
The fee for registering a DBA in Ohio varies depending on the county in which your business is located. Check with your local county clerk’s office for specific fees.
How long does it take to obtain a DBA in Ohio?
The processing time for a DBA registration in Ohio varies, but it typically takes several weeks to process.
Do I need to publish a notice of my DBA registration in Ohio?
This depends on the county in which your business is located. Some counties require publication while others do not. Check with your local county clerk’s office for specific requirements.
Can I use a DBA if I am a sole proprietor in Ohio?
Yes, sole proprietors often use DBA names for their businesses in Ohio.
Can I register a DBA name online in Ohio?
Yes, you can register a DBA online on the Ohio Secretary of State website.
Are there any restrictions on the type of name I can choose for my DBA in Ohio?
Yes, your DBA name cannot violate any existing trademarks or be confusingly similar to any existing business names.
What documents do I need to register for a DBA in Ohio?
You will need to provide proof of identity and a filing fee. Check with your local county clerk’s office for specific documentation requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to register a DBA in Ohio?
No, you do not need a lawyer to register a DBA in Ohio. You can complete the process on your own.
What happens if someone else already has the name I want for my DBA in Ohio?
If someone else already has the name you want, you will need to choose a different name.
Can I change my DBA name if I want to in Ohio?
Yes, you can change your DBA name in Ohio. You will need to complete the registration process again with your new name.
How long is my DBA registration valid in Ohio?
Your DBA registration in Ohio is valid for five years.
Do I need to renew my DBA registration in Ohio?
Yes, you will need to renew your DBA registration in Ohio every five years.
Can I have multiple DBA names in Ohio for the same business?
Yes, you can have multiple DBA names in Ohio for the same business.
Can I use a DBA name for my non-profit organization in Ohio?
Yes, non-profit organizations can use DBA names in Ohio.
Can an LLC use a DBA name in Ohio?
Yes, an LLC can use a DBA name in Ohio.
Can I trademark my DBA name in Ohio?
Yes, you can trademark your DBA name in Ohio if it meets certain requirements.
Do I need to register my DBA with the IRS in Ohio?
No, registering a DBA with the IRS is not required in Ohio.
Can I use a hyphen or special character in my DBA name in Ohio?
Yes, you can use a hyphen or special character in your DBA name in Ohio.
Can I use an existing business’s name as my DBA in Ohio?
No, you cannot use an existing business’s name as your DBA in Ohio.
Can I register a DBA for my online business in Ohio?
Yes, you can register a DBA for your online business in Ohio.
Do I need to file a DBA amendment if my business address changes in Ohio?
Yes, if your business address changes, you will need to file a DBA amendment in Ohio.
Can I use a DBA name for a side business in Ohio?
Yes, you can use a DBA name for a side business in Ohio.
How do I change my DBA name in Ohio?
To change your DBA name in Ohio, you will need to file a DBA amendment with your new name.
Can I transfer my DBA registration to another state?
No, you cannot transfer your DBA registration to another state. You will need to register for a DBA in each state in which you do business.
What is the penalty for operating without a DBA in Ohio?
Fines and penalties vary depending on the county and may include per-day fines or an order to cease business operations.
Do I need an EIN for my DBA in Ohio?
Whether or not you need an EIN for your DBA in Ohio depends on the legal structure of your business. Consult with a tax professional to determine eligibility for an EIN.

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Conclusion

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