A 'Doing Business As' (DBA) name, also known as a fictitious business name, trade name, or assumed name, is a public record that a business is operating under a name different from its legal name. For sole proprietors and general partnerships, the legal name is typically the owner's personal name. For LLCs and corporations, the legal name is the one registered with the state during formation. A DBA allows you to use a more marketable or descriptive name for your business without forming a new legal entity. Understanding the DBA definition is crucial for entrepreneurs. It's not a legal business structure like an LLC or corporation; it’s simply a way to use a different name. This distinction is vital because a DBA does not offer liability protection. If your business operates as a sole proprietorship under a DBA and incurs debt or faces a lawsuit, your personal assets are at risk. Lovie helps clarify these distinctions to ensure you choose the right path for your business formation and protection.
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