DBA Registration

What is a DBA?

A DBA, also known as a fictitious name, allows you to conduct business under a name different from your legal name or your company's registered name. Unlike an LLC, a DBA doesn't create a separate legal entity or provide liability protection.

Steps to Form a DBA in Florida

Step 1: Choose a Business Name

Select a unique name for your DBA. In Florida, your DBA name must be distinguishable from other registered business names.

Step 2: Conduct a Name Search

Use the Florida Division of Corporations' website (Sunbiz.org) to search for your desired name and ensure it's available.

Step 3: Register Your DBA

In Florida, you can register your DBA online through the Sunbiz.org website5. Here's what you need to do:

1. Go to the Sunbiz.org website

2. Click on "Start E-Filing" and select "Fictitious Name Registration"

3. Fill out the online form with your business information

4. Pay the required fee (currently $50 for online filing)

Step 4: Publish a Legal Notice

Florida law requires you to publish a legal notice of your DBA registration in a newspaper in the county where your principal place of business is located. This must be done at least once before you file your registration.

Step 5: Maintain Your Registration

DBA registrations in Florida are valid for five years. You'll need to renew your registration before it expires to continue using the fictitious name.

Key Differences from DBA to LLC Formation

Unlike LLC formation, setting up a DBA in Florida:

• Does not create a separate legal entity

• Provides no liability protection

• Doesn't require articles of organization or an operating agreement

• Doesn't need a registered agent

• Requires newspaper publication of the registration

Additional Considerations

• While not required for a DBA, you may still need to obtain relevant business licenses and permits depending on your industry and location.

• A DBA doesn't provide tax benefits like an LLC might, so consult with a tax professional about your specific situation.

• You don't need to obtain an EIN for a DBA unless you have employees or file certain tax returns.

Remember, while a DBA can be a simpler and less expensive option for sole proprietors or partnerships, it doesn't offer the legal protections of an LLC. Consider your business needs carefully when choosing between a DBA and an LLC. 

 We Can Assist With Forming A Florida DBA or LLC. 

Our Flat Fee is $150. This includes an EIN # , but does NOT include SunBiz fees. 

• Access Florida SunBiz Forms Here.

• Register A Business Here.

• Get Our LLC Tutorial Training Here.

We can prepare legal documents of all kinds and furnish a mobile notary to assist in execution. We can also assist with the online e-filing portal.

Call: 1-877-540-6104 To Hire Us For Assistance or Check Out Our $27 Tutorial Course👇