Starting a business under a name different from your legal name, or the registered name of your LLC or corporation, requires filing a Fictitious Business Name (FBN), commonly known as a DBA (Doing Business As). In California, this process is managed at the county level, making it distinct from state-level business registrations like LLCs or corporations. A DBA allows you to operate your business with a trade name, which is crucial for branding, marketing, and building customer trust. It’s a straightforward process but requires attention to detail to ensure compliance with California law. This guide will walk you through each step, from determining if you need a DBA to publishing the required notice. While a DBA provides a business name, it doesn't create a separate legal entity like an LLC or a Corporation. If you are a sole proprietor or a general partnership operating under a name other than your own personal names, you must file a DBA. Similarly, if you are an existing LLC or corporation and wish to conduct business under an additional name, you will also need to file for a DBA in California. Understanding this distinction is key to choosing the right business structure and name registration for your venture. Lovie can help you form your core business entity, like an LLC or corporation, and then guide you through the DBA filing process in California.
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