One benefit of getting a DBA for your business certificate is the ability to do business under many names. Particularly useful for single proprietors and limited liability companies, this allows for more name flexibility without requiring a large investment in time and money. The DBA application procedure is less complicated than it seems and can be accomplished entirely on your own with little preparation.
Easy steps to get a dba for your business
1. Think about potential names.
You’ll need to settle on a great name for your business before applying for a DBA. You may be working with an idea you’ve had for a while, or you could be beginning from fresh. Right now is when you should be thinking about a good name for your company. A good company name should convey its purpose, be simple to spell, and stick in customers’ minds. Common sayings, folklore, foreign language, and other sources may provide motivation.
2. Research the Trademark Status of a Suggested Name
As you decide on your top two or three choices, it is crucial to see whether any of them are taken. Using a name that another company already trademarks might result in legal action from that company. Because of this, you’ll have to alter your DBA and maybe your logo, which is a major hassle.
3. Look into the Secretary of State’s Files.
Make sure your DBA name isn’t trademarked or too close to an existing company or limited liability company name if you file for corporate or LLC status for your firm. Your state may not let you register a business name that is too similar to another company’s name already in use. Any future corporation, LLC or corporation, could need a name change due to legal restrictions. Your state’s Secretary of State website probably has a company directory you may use for this purpose. While each form is unique, the vast majority will let you search using either your company’s full name or a partial name.
4. Find out what paperwork is needed to apply for a DBA in your state
A DBA application and the associated requirements vary by state. The cost to register a DBA is also set by each state. In most states, registering your business name as a DBA also necessitates completing an application and associated fees. Some jurisdictions may additionally demand that you publicize the application for the DBA name in your area. The business part of your state’s official website will have the details you need to submit a DBA application in your area. Municipal clerks also often keep this data and the DBA application on file.
5. Register your DBA.
When you have researched and decided on a DBA name that satisfies your state’s regulations, you may go on with completing and filing your DBA paperwork. This may be done in the town clerk’s office or online.
6. Be patient and hold out for acceptance
The use of the DBA name is subject to the approval of the documentation submitted to establish it. As the time it takes to have a DBA granted might vary, it’s best to get started on the application process as early as. The state government will notify you by letter or electronic mail when your application has been processed. Then you may officially begin doing business under your new name.
7. Review Renewal Policies and Procedures
Once you getting a DBA for your business you will need to renew it regularly. You’ll need to renew your DBA every five years in most states. Although these renewals are often handled digitally, it is still a good idea to put a reminder in your calendar to ensure you don’t forget.
After your DBA is recognized, you must start using it in all of your company’s communications. You should create a logo, tagline, and other identifying elements for your company that represent your DBA. Obtain a website domain corresponding to your DBA name if you haven’t already. Creating a website and social media profiles may begin simultaneously with your brand’s development.
Obtaining an EIN, or employer identification number, might help simplify the tax filing process even though some single entrepreneurs use their SSNs when filing taxes; doing so presents severe security risks. Numerous documents, such as contracts you may have to transmit to customers, will include your social security number. Obtaining an EIN is a more secure option. Your primary company entity is linked to this number, so you may use the same EIN for your direct and any assumed names. The IRS website is where you should go to apply for an EIN.
