Q: What’s the difference between a fictitious name statement and a dba?
A: There is really no difference. The “dba” = “doing business as” = doing business under a fictitious name.
Q: If I am forming a corporation or a partnership or an LLC, do I still have to file a dba?
A: No, the formation of the entity is the registration you need.
Q: If my name is John Smith and I want to be known as Smith Chiropractic Center, do I have to file a dba?
A: This one is kind of on the line, but I suggest you register the dba, since your entire name is not included. The purpose of the dba is so that everyone in your community knows that it is you running this practice, not someone else. If you were opening “John Smith Chiropractic” you would NOT have to register the dba.
Q: How do I register a DBA?
A: Usually you register with the city where your practice is located. Many cities want you to publish the dba in the local newspaper a couple of times, so everyone in town knows it’s you.
Q: Can I get a bank account before I register my DBA?
A: No, you should register first. You’ll probably have to use your own personal funds to do this – it is usually not expensive.
Q: Can someone else use my DBA?
A: If you are a sole proprietor with a DBA, there is nothing to prevent someone else from using it. If you want to prevent another business from using your name, you can also reserve the name with your state.
