Guide to Registering a DBA or Fictitious Business Name

File your DBA with the appropriate entity through easy online services

DBAs typically are filed with the state or, more commonly, the county. For a small fee, you can complete a name registration form that allows you to legally use your fictitious business name; all you'll need in most jurisdictions is your name, the date of your filing, the name you wish to do business as and your business address.

I recommend: If you fear paperwork, hire someone to do it for you. MyCorporation.com, LegalZoom.com and BizFilings offer complete DBA registration services for businesses in any jurisdiction.

Decide if a DBA is right for you

If your company is structured as a sole proprietorship or a partnership, and you want to operate your business under a name other than your own, chances are you'll need to file a DBA with your city, county or state.

I recommend: Learn the basics of DBA registration with articles from Business Pipeline and About.com.

Choose a name

If you want to do business under a fictitious name, choose that name carefully. Keep your name simple and easy to pronounce, and choose one that adequately describes your business while appealing to your target customers.

I recommend: Browse records of existing DBAs in your area to make sure your name is not already being used. Most states and counties have their own fictitious name databases; find yours at BusinessName.com.

Apply for a Federal Tax ID Number

A name isn't enough to do business; you'll also need a number with which to identify your business to the federal government. You can use either your Social Security Number (SSN) or an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

I recommend: Find out if you need an EIN — and apply for one online — with information from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Register a trademark

Filing a DBA will not protect your business name from duplication. To reserve exclusive rights to your DBA, you'll have to register it as a trademark.

I recommend: Search federal trademarks — and apply for one of your own — online with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Use — and enjoy — your DBA

Once your DBA is properly registered, you can use it to conduct business — meaning that you can freely use your DBA to market and advertise your business, as well as finance it via business checking accounts and lines of credit.

I recommend: Use your new business name everywhere — on your business cards, checks, stationery and more. Order custom business supplies featuring your fictitious name from Deluxe or iPrint.com.