Businesses using a name other than the owner's name are required to register a DBA / Fictitious Business Name Certificate. Note that you can incorporate or form an LLC instead of filing a DBA. If you are an LLC or Corporation you don't need a dba.
Legal Business Licensing Requirements Applying To Any State & Any Business
APPLIES TO ALL 50 STATES:
Even if you are a home or online business, all off the following applies to you.
All Businesses Need a Business License & a Trade Business Name (Trade Business Name required if using a trade name).
Retailers / Wholesalers, Need a Reseller Tax ID, & a Business License.
Employers Need a Federal Tax Id Number (EIN), a State Tax Id ( State EIN), & a Business License.
Corporations, & LLC Need a Federal Tax Id Number (EIN)& a Business License.
Partnerships Need a Federal Tax Id Number (EIN) & a Trade Business Name, but also need a Business License.
Sole Proprietors May Use a Federal Tax Id Number as a Business Tax ID but also need a Business License.
Instead of filing a Trade Business Name, You Can Incorporate or form an LLC & You Will Not Need To File A DBA