DBA Fictitious/Assumed/Trade Name WHAT IS A DBA FICTITIOUS/ASSUMED/TRADE NAME?
A DBA stands for "Doing Business As" and it is the Filing of your doing business as trade name. For example, if you do business as "Joe's Fine Merchandise, " "Joe's Fine Merchandise" is a trade name. You need to file it with a clerk. If you do, you will obtain a DBA certificate that will help you create stationary and advertise with that name. Who Needs a DBA? Users of a trade name need one. If you file an LLC or Corporation, you can use the corp or LLC name to advertise and you will not need to file a DBA. DBA vs. LLC If you are going to make any serious money such as more than $50,000 per year, you may want to form an LLC or coproration. It is the best to help you save on taxes and protect you from personal liability. . WHERE TO OBTAIN A DBA You can obtain all permits for your business here online.