If you plan to operate a business in California under a name other than your personal legal name, you need to file for a fictitious business name (FBN), also known as a DBA (doing business as). Registering a DBA allows you to conduct any business with a business name without having to form a legal business entity. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register a fictitious business name (DBA) in any California city.:
1. Check if Your Business Name Is Available
Before filing a DBA, you’ll want to make sure the name you want to use hasn’t already been taken by another business. You can check the name availability by searching the California Secretary of State's online business search database. Avoid using names that are already in use or are too similar to the existing businesses to prevent trademark conflicts.
2. Prepare Your FBN Filing Forms
The main form you’ll need to fill out is the Fictitious Business Name Statement form from your local county clerk’s office. On the statement, you must include the fictitious business name you intend to use, the business owner information, and a description of the business activities. You’ll also need a publishing statement that indicates where you will publish the DBA filing.
3. Publish Your FBN
Within 30 days before or after filing your FBN statement, you must publish it in a newspaper circulated in the city where the business is located. Common publications used include the Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, or any other local papers. After publishing, get an affidavit of publication from the newspaper and include it with your filing.
4. File Your Completed FBN Paperwork
Take your completed FBN statement form, affidavit of publication, and payment to the county clerk’s office to officially register your business name on the county level. Filing fees are typically $30-50. You'll receive a stamped copy of your paperwork showing proof of filing.
5. Register for State Taxes
Even as a DBA, you may need to register for certain state taxes to legally operate. Common tax agencies to register with include the CA Seller’s Permit (the sales tax), the CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration (income tax), and also the Employment Development Department (payroll tax).
6. Obtain Business Licenses & Permits
Research whether your California city requires any special licenses or any permits to operate your type of business. Common examples include business licenses, sales permits, zoning permits, food handling permits, and also resale certificates. Obtain all the necessary documentation before you open for business under your DBA.
7. Renew Your FBN
California DBAs expire after 5 years and must be renewed by refiling a new FBN statement before the expiration date. Mark your calendar well in advance to remember to renew your business name on time and avoid an expired registration.
Following these key steps allows you to quickly and smoothly register a DBA trade name for your business in any city across the California. With a properly filed fictitious business name, you can operate under your chosen business name and satisfy all registration regulations in CA. Revisit and renew your filing periodically to keep your DBA active.
