A fictitious name mean, also referred to as a DBA or “doing business as” name, is when a person registers a business name with the city or county to let people know who owns the enterprise.

Can you run a business with just a fictitious name?

As a sole proprietor, you can legally conduct business in that state under your fictitious business name, but you won’t have any limited liability protection. If you want to use a different name you will have register your DBA name in that state by filing the appropriate documents.

What is the benefit of a fictitious business name?

Some of the main advantages of filing for a fictitious business name are privacy protection, increased flexibility, and enhanced value. Certain advantages may benefit different types of business structures more than others.

Is a DBA a good idea?

The main benefit of filing a DBA registration is it will keep you in compliance with the law. For sole proprietors, a DBA lets them use a typical business name without creating a formal legal entity (i.e. corporation or LLC). However, be advised that a DBA doesn’t protect your business name from being used by others.

In the case of a business owned by an individual, a “fictitious business name” is any name that does not include the last name (surname) of the owner, or which implies additional owners (such as “Company”, “and Company”, “and Sons”, “Associates”, etc.).

Why would I need a DBA?

Registering for a DBA allows you to transact business under the fictitious name instead of your personal name. Your bank requires a DBA to open a business bank account. Banks often require sole proprietorships and the partners in general partnerships to have a DBA before they can open a business bank account.

What is the purpose of a fictitious name?

The Purpose of a Fictitious Name States require filing fictitious business names because they help inform the public about who actually owns the company. A fictitious name filing puts a business’s name and its owner’s identity on public record.

What can you do with a fictitious business name?

However, if the corporation’s name is already in use, it cannot operate under that same name in that state. By filing for a fictitious business name that is not already in use, the corporation can expand into the new state by using the new name to conduct business. There is no limit to how many fictitious business names one company can register.

What is the definition of a fictitious name?

What is a fictitious name? A fictitious name (also known as a“doing business as” or “dba”) is: Different from your personal name, if doing business as a sole proprietor. Different from your entity’s legal name, if you have incorporated or otherwise formed a separate legal business entity.

Is it fraud to run a business under an assumed name?

In fact, it can be considered fraud if you present your business under a name other than the proper legal name without proper notification. Fortunately, there’s really not much excuse for not filing an assumed business name because it’s so easy and inexpensive.