DBA FILING AND COMPLIANCE ✅ BUSINESS ✅ SERVICES

Stage 1. Preliminary Legal Analysis and Name Availability Check

Lawyer's Actions:

Analysis of business structure options (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship).
Verification of name availability through state business registry.
Conflict check with trademarks (USPTO) and local business registrations.

Stage 2. Preparation and Filing of DBA Registration Documents

Lawyer's Actions:

Completing DBA forms according to state requirements (sometimes county or city).
Filing the application with state or county office (e.g., County Clerk or Secretary of State).
Payment of government fees.
Obtaining registration confirmation.

Stage 3. DBA Publication (Where Required by Law)

In some states (e.g., New York, California), public notice of the DBA must be published in approved newspapers.

Lawyer's Actions:

Determining publication requirements in the relevant jurisdiction.
Arranging publication in approved print media.
Obtaining and filing proof of publication.

What is DBA and Why Do You Need It?

DBA (Doing Business As) is a simple way to give your business a recognizable name without creating a new company. You can operate as "Ivanov & Co" while customers see a bright brand. It's convenient for banks, contracts, and marketing, but important to remember: DBA is just a trade name, not a separate legal entity and not protection from risks.

How DBA is Useful in Practice?

Allows operating under a memorable brand name.
Needed to open a bank account under the trade name.
Simplifies check processing, contracts, and marketing.
Enables one legal entity to operate under multiple brands.

Where and How to Register?

Rules depend on state, county, or city:

File application with state office or county clerk;
Sometimes need to publish notice in local newspaper;
Pay registration fee;
Renew registration according to jurisdiction deadlines.

Important: procedures and prices vary — California, Texas, and New York have different rules.

What DBA Does Not Provide

DBA does not create a separate legal entity.
DBA does not grant exclusive name rights (need USPTO trademark for that).
DBA does not protect personal assets — need LLC or corporation for that.

If you want exclusivity — register a trademark.

Post-Registration Responsibilities

Use registered name in documents and advertising.
Monitor expiration date and renew on time.
Update information when address or ownership changes.
Comply with local disclosure requirements (e.g., indicate owner on checks or contracts if required).

Practical Tips

Before registration, do quick search — check for similar names in the state.
If planning brand scaling and protection — simultaneously file trademark application.
For online business — check domain and social media availability for chosen name.
If operating in multiple states — register DBA in each state where you do business.

Summary

DBA is an affordable and practical tool for operating under a memorable name. It simplifies work with clients and banks, but doesn't replace legal brand protection or personal liability protection.