How to Get a DBA Name For an LLC in Arkansas – An Easy Guide


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
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Get a DBA Name in Arkansas

Are you looking to establish a business in Arkansas and need to get a DBA (Doing Business As) name for your venture? You’re in the right place! A DBA, also known as a Trade Name, Fictitious Name, or Assumed Name, allows you to conduct business under a name that’s different from your legal business name. This can be advantageous for branding, marketing, and overall business operations.

In Arkansas, if you’re willing to use a different name other than the legal name for your business, you must file the DBA (Doing Business As). The public (specifically your potential customers) knows your business by its registered legal name. Instead of using your formal business name, you may use the trade name or DBA in marketing and sales to reach a wider audience.

Arkansas, popularly known as The Natural State, has some regulations when it comes to filing your DBA name. However, the regulations can vary depending on the type of business structure you have. In this article, I will share the basic steps to get a DBA Name in Arkansas.

What is DBA Name in Arkansas?

Whenever you form an LLC or any business structure, you must get a name for it. Every company has a legitimate name. For instance, a partnership or sole proprietorship might function under the legal name of the company’s owner or owners. The name specified in the Articles of Incorporation or Certificate of Organization may be used by any business entity, including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and others.

However, there are situations when you may decide against using your company’s registered legal name in Arkansas. This is due to a variety of factors. For instance, the legal name of your company can be unrelated to it or no longer accurately describe it. Or perhaps you want a new name without altering your documentation for incorporation or registration.

If you intend to run your business in Arkansas under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must submit a DBA name with Arkansas state regardless of the type of business entity you have incorporated as (single proprietor, partnership, corporation, or LLC).

No restrictions exist on how many DBA names you can use to do business. However, each DBA name must be filed with the state where you conduct business. This is necessary because the general public has a legal right to know whether a specific individual or company is operating under a name other than their legal name.

In Arkansas, changing your business name is a risky factor. It can bring positive and negative effects on your business. Hence, before you file and change your legal business name, analyze all the risks and advantages.

–LLCBuddy Editorial Team

How to Get a DBA in Arkansas

To get a DBA in Arkansas, you must first check if any other business is already using the name before filing a DBA in Arkansas. You can then submit the Arkansas business name reservation form after it has been confirmed that no other company is already using the chosen name. You can search the Arkansas Government Records Inquiry System and confirm that the name you chose is not already in use. However, getting a DBA is not mandatory in many states. If you open an LLC in Arkansas, you must check with Arkansas Secretary of State whether you need to file DBA or not.

Guideline for choosing a DBA name

You must choose a name to register, which is the crucial step. There are a few straightforward LLC name guidelines to follow (if you’re forming an LLC) while choosing a name in Arkansas.

  • In Arkansas, fictional names cannot be the same or similar to one another. A DBA cannot deceive the public by appearing to be confusingly similar to any other business name.
  • Unless the company has been incorporated as an LLC or corporation, a DBA name cannot contain a corporate indication, such as Corp or LLC, or any other words that imply an entity type. This will stop a lone proprietor from passing for a legitimate corporation.
  • Any banking-related words without a letter from the Arkansas Banking Commissioner’s Office, or any insurance-related words without a letter from the Arkansas Arkansas Insurance Department.
  • Any words that could confuse your corporation with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department, etc.).
  • A professional designation in the name (i.e., engineering, attorney) without a copy of the license of one officer/member or a letter from the governing agency allowing the use of the name without licensing.
  • Any words that indicate or imply that the corporation is engaged in a business that is not authorized by law to pursue.

How Can You Tell if a DBA Name in Arkansas is available?

Once you have selected a name that complies with the requirements mentioned above, there are a number of methods you can use to find out if the name is open for registration. One simple strategy is to look up other companies in Arkansas with the same name on Google.

It is a simple technique to clear out any already taken names, even though it may not guarantee that the name you want to register is accessible. As it is likely that you will require a website domain that matches your business name, you may also check to see whether the web domain for that name is accessible. For example, you can check Arkansas LLC name search guide to see how you can find the availability of your desired LLC name in Arkansas.

Before you may register your Trade Name in Arkansas, you must have used it for business purposes. Therefore, you must use a Trade Name as soon as possible if you want to register and protect it in Arkansas.

Register the Arkansas DBA Name

Once you have established that the name is available for registration, you must finish the file using the forms your county has provided. You must register your DBA name in the county where you intend to conduct business. In most Arkansas counties, the following fundamental information is needed-

  • Name of the company, its phone number, city, state, and street address
  • The organization type under which the business is incorporated
  • List the partners’ names and addresses (if applicable)
  • Describe the items, services, or business that will be delivered under the Fictitious Name in the registration form
  • Use of the Fictitious Name in the marketplace
  • Both the classification type and number
  • Make a mark (pick Trade Name)
  • Date and state of the first use of the trade name
  • When the Trade Name first appeared in Arkansas
  • Application’s name, title, signature, and date Email address

Submitting the Arkansas DBA Name Application

To file the Arkansas DBA Name, you must apply to the Arkansas Secretary of State. In Arkansas, you can file the DBA name in three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing.. The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in Arkansas is $22.50 for filing online, $25 for filing by mail or in-person.

  • Online filing: For online filing check the https://www.ark.org/sos/corpfilings/index.php for online forms.
  • Offline filing: Check Arkansas Secretary of State website for the Form DN-18. Download the form, fill it up and send it to the Arkansas Secretary of State, 1401 W. Capital Ave., Suite 250, Little Rock, AR 72201

Using the Arkansas Trade Name

Three “specimens” demonstrating the Trade Name used must be submitted to Arkansas Secretary of State. The following are some instances of acceptable specimens:

  • Business cards
  • Booklets,
  • Flyers,
  • Labels, and
  • Stickers

How to Renew a Trade Name in Arkansas

You can renew your DBA name after a stipulated time. In most states, the renewal of the DBA name follows the same process as filing a fresh DBA name. You need to get the DBA renewal form, fill it up with the correct information, and submit it to the state online or offline. The renew time for DBA name filing is Indefinite in Arkansas.

How to Change a Trade Name

You can change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name) by applying to the Arkansas SOS. The process is similar. You can search for the name you want to have after changing the old Trade Name. If the name is available, make sure it follows other guidelines. You can reserve your DBA name for Indefinite; after then, you can change or renew your DBA if needed through the Arkansas SOS.

FAQs

What is a DBA name?
DBA stands for “doing business as” and is a type of business entity that allows a person or organization to operate under an alternate name.
What is the process for filing a DBA name in Arkansas?
The process for filing a DBA in Arkansas involves submitting a DBA filing form to the appropriate state agency, paying the filing fee, and completing any other required steps.
Who is eligible to file a DBA name in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, any individual, corporation, partnership, or other business entity may file a DBA.
What documents are needed to file a DBA in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, you will need to submit a completed DBA filing form, as well as any additional paperwork required by the state.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in Arkansas?
The filing fee for a DBA in Arkansas is $25.
How long does it take to file a DBA in Arkansas?
The processing time for a DBA filing in Arkansas is typically 2-4 weeks.
How long does a DBA name remain valid in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, a DBA name remains valid for an indefinite period of time, unless it is cancelled or revoked.
Does a DBA need to be renewed in Arkansas?
No, a DBA in Arkansas does not need to be renewed.
Is there a difference between a DBA and an LLC in Arkansas?
Yes, a DBA is different from an LLC in Arkansas in that a DBA is a “trade name” used to operate a business, while an LLC is a legal business entity with its own rights, privileges, and liabilities.
Is a DBA name required to do business in Arkansas?
No, a DBA is not required to do business in Arkansas. However, many people choose to file a DBA in order to operate under a different name than the one registered with the state.
Does a DBA name need to be registered with the county in Arkansas?
No, a DBA name does not need to be registered with the county in Arkansas.
Do I need to register a DBA name with the IRS in Arkansas?
No, you do not need to register a DBA with the IRS in Arkansas.
Is a DBA name the same as a fictitious business name in Arkansas?
No, while a DBA name and a fictitious business name may be used interchangeably, they are technically different entities in Arkansas.
Does a DBA name have to match the name of the owner in Arkansas?
No, a DBA name does not have to match the name of the owner in Arkansas.
Is there an annual registration fee for a DBA name in Arkansas?
No, there is no annual registration fee for a DBA name in Arkansas.
What is the penalty for not filing a DBA name in Arkansas?
The penalty for not filing a DBA in Arkansas is up to $500.
How do I cancel a DBA name in Arkansas?
To cancel a DBA name in Arkansas, you must submit a cancellation form to the appropriate state agency.
Can I have multiple DBAs in Arkansas?
Yes, you can have multiple DBAs in Arkansas.
Do I need to publish a notice in the newspaper when filing a DBA in Arkansas?
Yes, you must publish a notice in a newspaper of general circulation when filing a DBA in Arkansas.
Does a DBA name need to be unique in Arkansas?
Yes, a DBA name must be unique in Arkansas in order to be approved.
Is a DBA name required to open a business bank account in Arkansas?
No, a DBA name is not required to open a business bank account in Arkansas.
Is there a searchable database of DBAs in Arkansas?
Yes, there is a searchable database of DBAs in Arkansas maintained by the Secretary of State.
Do I need a separate DBA name for each business location in Arkansas?
Yes, if you have multiple business locations in Arkansas, you will need a separate DBA name for each one.
What if I want to change the name of my DBA in Arkansas?
To change the name of your DBA in Arkansas, you must submit a new DBA filing form to the appropriate state agency.
How do I transfer a DBA name in Arkansas?
To transfer a DBA name in Arkansas, you must submit a transfer form to the appropriate state agency.
Are there any requirements for the name of a DBA in Arkansas?
Yes, there are certain requirements for the name of a DBA in Arkansas, including that it cannot contain prohibited words, phrases, or symbols.
Is a business license required to file a DBA in Arkansas?
No, a business license is not required to file a DBA in Arkansas.
Does a DBA protect personal assets in Arkansas?
No, a DBA does not protect personal assets in Arkansas.
Does a DBA name have to be the same as the domain name in Arkansas?
No, a DBA name does not have to be the same as the domain name in Arkansas.
What is the process for filing a DBA Name in Arkansas?
To file a DBA Name in Arkansas, you must submit a Certificate of Assumed Name to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office. You will need to fill out an online form, provide the filing fee and business information, and submit the form.
Where can I find the form to file a DBA Name in Arkansas?
The form to file a DBA Name in Arkansas can be found on the Arkansas Secretary of State website.
How much does it cost to file a DBA Name in Arkansas?
The filing fee to file a DBA Name in Arkansas is currently $25.
How long does it take to file a DBA Name in Arkansas?
The processing time for filing a DBA Name in Arkansas is usually within five business days.
Is registering a DBA Name in Arkansas required?
Yes, registering a DBA Name in Arkansas is a legal requirement for many businesses operating in the state.

Also Read

Why Arkansas DBA Filing is So Important

A DBA, also known as a fictitious business name, trade name, or assumed name, is essentially a way for individuals and companies to operate under a name that is different from their legal entity’s name. This can be particularly useful for sole proprietors and partnerships looking to operate under a more marketable or catchy name, without the need to create a separate legal entity.

In Arkansas, filing a DBA is a relatively straightforward process that involves submitting a registration form to the Secretary of State’s office. Along with the completed form, you will need to pay a modest filing fee and provide information about your business, including the DBA name you wish to use and the type of business you are operating. Once your DBA is approved, you will receive a certificate that confirms your right to use the name in your business transactions.

But why is filing a DBA so important for your business? Firstly, it allows you to establish a distinct identity for your brand. A memorable and unique business name can help differentiate your products and services from competitors and make a lasting impression on customers. By registering your DBA, you ensure that no one else can use the same name, protecting your brand from potential infringements.

Secondly, filing a DBA can help you build trust and credibility with your customers. When people see that your business name is registered with the state, it gives them confidence that you are a legitimate and professional operation. This transparency can go a long way in attracting and retaining customers, who want to know that they are doing business with a reputable company.

Additionally, filing a DBA can provide you with legal protections and rights. If you encounter any disputes or conflicts over your business name, having a registered DBA can give you a legal leg to stand on and protect your rights to the name. It can also help you establish a paper trail in case you need to prove ownership of the name in the future.

In conclusion, filing a DBA in Arkansas is a critical step in setting up your business for success. Not only does it help you establish a professional brand identity and build trust with customers, but it also provides you with legal safeguards and protections. So, don’t overlook the importance of registering your DBA – it could make a world of difference for your business in the long run.

In Conclusion

A DBA name in Arkansas is the best way to update your business name. Unlike the registered legal business name, you can have as many as DBA names. You can use your new assumed name as soon as the state has processed your filing, and getting one is a rather simple process. Whether you have an LLC or any other business structure, filing a DBA name is helpful for your business upgradation anytime.

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