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

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How to Get a DBA Name in Tennessee

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

Tennessee, also known as The Volunteer 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 Tennessee.

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 Tennessee

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 Charter for Profit Corporation 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must file a DBA name with Tennessee 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 Tennessee

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

Once you have determined that the name is available for registration, complete the required forms provided by your county or the Tennessee Secretary of State. You must register your DBA name in the county where you intend to conduct business. In most Tennessee 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 Tennessee DBA Name, you must apply to the Tennessee Secretary of State or the appropriate county office. In Tennessee, 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 Tennessee 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 in Tennessee, you must send the accomplished DBA filing form to the Tennessee Secretary of State, Division of Business Services, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 6th Floor, William R. Snodgrass Tower, Nashville, TN 37243 or drop it off in person at the same address.

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

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DBA Name in Tennessee: A Detailed Guide

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

Renewing a DBA Name in Tennessee

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 Tennessee DBA to ensure continued compliance with state regulations.

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

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Changing a DBA Name in Tennessee

If you need to change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name), apply to the Tennessee 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee Government Records Inquiry System or the Tennessee Secretary of State Business Information Search database provided by the Tennessee Secretary of State to confirm business name availability in Tennessee.
  2. Complete the change application: Obtain the trade name change application from the Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 (Doing Business As) name is a name under which a business operates that is different from its legal name.
Is a DBA name required in Tennessee?
No, a DBA name is not required in Tennessee, but it may be necessary for a business to successfully operate and function under a name that is different from its legal name.
How much does it cost to get a DBA name in Tennessee?
The cost to get a DBA name in Tennessee varies from county to county, but the average fee is about $20.
Is a DBA name registered with the state of Tennessee?
No, a DBA name is not registered with the state of Tennessee. It is registered with the county in which the business is located.
Can anyone get a DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, anyone operating a business under a name that is different from its legal name can get a DBA name in Tennessee.
Are there any restrictions on DBA names in Tennessee?
Yes, the name must not conflict with another registered business name in the same county or create confusion for consumers.
How long does it take to get a DBA name in Tennessee?
It typically only takes a few days to register a DBA name in Tennessee.
Do I need a lawyer to get a DBA name in Tennessee?
No, a lawyer is not required to get a DBA name in Tennessee.
Can I apply for a DBA name online in Tennessee?
That depends on the county in which the business is located. Some counties allow online applications while others require in-person or mail applications.
What information is required to register a DBA name in Tennessee?
The business name, owners’ names and addresses, and the business address are all required to register a DBA name in Tennessee.
Can I have multiple DBA names in Tennessee?
Yes, a business can have multiple DBA names in Tennessee as long as they are registered in different counties.
Do I need to renew my DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, DBA names in Tennessee must be renewed every few years depending on the county.
When renewing my DBA name in Tennessee, do I have to pay another fee?
Yes, a renewal fee must be paid every few years when renewing a DBA name in Tennessee.
Can I change my DBA name in Tennessee after it’s registered?
Yes, a business can change its DBA name in Tennessee by filing a new registration with the county.
Do I need to file a separate tax return for my DBA name in Tennessee?
No, a DBA name in Tennessee does not require a separate tax return. It is reported with the business’s legal name on the tax return.
Can I trademark my DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, a business can trademark its DBA name in Tennessee if it is eligible for trademark protection.
Can a DBA name be transferred to a new owner in Tennessee?
Yes, a DBA name can typically be transferred to a new owner in Tennessee by filing a new registration with the county.
Can I use my DBA name to open a bank account in Tennessee?
Yes, a bank account can be opened using a DBA name in Tennessee.
Do I need a separate business license for my DBA name in Tennessee?
No, a separate business license is not required for a DBA name in Tennessee. The business license is under the legal name of the business.
Do I need to display my DBA name when advertising in Tennessee?
Yes, a business operating under a DBA name in Tennessee must include the DBA name on all advertising and promotional materials.
Can a DBA name resolution dispute be initiated in Tennessee?
Yes, a DBA name resolution dispute can be initiated in a Tennessee court by a business that believes its intellectual property rights have been infringed upon.
Can individuals use a DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, individuals can use a DBA name in Tennessee if they are operating a business under a name that is different from their legal name.
Does a sole proprietorship need a DBA name in Tennessee?
No, if a sole proprietorship is operating the business under the owner’s legal name, a DBA name is not needed in Tennessee.
Can a nonprofit organization use a DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, a nonprofit organization can use a DBA name in Tennessee if registered with the county.
Do foreign corporations need a DBA name in Tennessee if conducting business there?
Yes, foreign corporations conducting business in Tennessee under a name different from their legal name need to register a DBA name with the county.
Where in Tennessee do I register for a DBA name?
A business should register a DBA name with the county in which the business is located in Tennessee.
Can I use a DBA name for an online business in Tennessee?
Yes, a DBA name can be used for an online business in Tennessee as long as it is registered with the county where the business is physically located.
Do I need to have a physical storefront to register a DBA name in Tennessee?
No, a business does not need to have a physical storefront to register a DBA name in Tennessee as long as it has a physical address.
Can I change the spelling of my legal name when registering a DBA name in Tennessee?
No, a business cannot change the spelling of the legal name when registering a DBA name in Tennessee.
What does DBA stand for?
DBA stands for “Doing Business As.”
Can anyone do business under a DBA name?
Yes, anyone can do business under a DBA name, as long as the name is not already in use.
What is the process of getting a DBA name in Tennessee?
The process of getting a DBA name in Tennessee involves filing a form with the Secretary of State’s office.
Can I register my DBA name online in Tennessee?
Yes, you can register your DBA name online in Tennessee.
What is the fee for registering a DBA in Tennessee?
There is a $20 fee for registering a DBA in Tennessee.
Can I change my registered DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change your registered DBA name in Tennessee by filing an amendment with the Secretary of State’s office.
Can I transfer my DBA name from another state to Tennessee?
No, you cannot transfer your DBA name from another state to Tennessee. You will need to register your DBA name in Tennessee.
How long is my DBA name valid in Tennessee?
Your DBA name is valid in Tennessee for five years, after which you will need to renew it.
What happens if someone else is already using my DBA name in Tennessee?
If someone else is already using your DBA name in Tennessee, you will need to select a new name.
Do I need to have a business before I can register a DBA name in Tennessee?
No, you do not need to have a business before you can register a DBA name in Tennessee.
Do I need a lawyer to register a DBA name in Tennessee?
No, you do not need a lawyer to register a DBA name in Tennessee.
Can I use my personal name as my DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, you can use your personal name as your DBA name in Tennessee.
Can I use an abbreviation as my DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, you can use an abbreviation as your DBA name in Tennessee.
Can I use a trademarked name as my DBA name in Tennessee?
No, you cannot use a trademarked name as your DBA name in Tennessee.
Are there any other fees I will need to pay when registering my DBA name in Tennessee?
No, there are no additional fees when registering a DBA in Tennessee.
Can I use my DBA name in advertising?
Yes, you can use your DBA name in advertising in Tennessee.
How do I renew my DBA name in Tennessee?
You can renew your DBA name in Tennessee by filing a renewal form with the Secretary of State’s office.
Are there any penalties for not renewing my DBA name in Tennessee?
Yes, there may be penalties for not renewing your DBA name in Tennessee, such as losing your exclusive right to use the name.
Can I register a DBA name for a nonprofit organization in Tennessee?
Yes, you can register a DBA name for a nonprofit organization in Tennessee.
What if my DBA name gets rejected by the Secretary of State’s office?
If your DBA name gets rejected by the Secretary of State’s office, you will need to select a new name.
Can I use my DBA name for any type of business in Tennessee?
Yes, you can use your DBA name for any type of business in Tennessee.
Do I need to provide any documentation to register a DBA name in Tennessee?
No, you do not need to provide any documentation to register a DBA name in Tennessee.
Can I check to see if a DBA name is already in use in Tennessee before registering it?
Yes, you can check to see if a DBA name is already in use in Tennessee on the Secretary of State’s website.
Can I register a DBA name for a franchise in Tennessee?
Yes, you can register a DBA name for a franchise in Tennessee.
What if I want to register my DBA name as my domain name?
You will need to purchase the domain name separately from a domain registrar.
Is there a limit to how many words or characters I can use in my DBA name in Tennessee?
No, there is no limit to how many words or characters you can use in your DBA name in Tennessee.

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Conclusion

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