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


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Get a DBA Name in Florida

Are you looking to establish a business in Florida 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 Florida, 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.

Florida, popularly known as The Sunshine 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 Florida.

What is DBA Name in Florida?

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 Articles 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 Florida. 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 Florida under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must submit a DBA name with Florida 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 Florida, 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 Florida

To get a DBA in Florida, you must first check if any other business is already using the name before filing a DBA in Florida. You can then submit the Florida business name reservation form after it has been confirmed that no other company is already using the chosen name. You can search the Florida 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 Florida, you must check with Florida 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 Florida.

  • In Florida, 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 Florida Banking Commissioner’s Office, or any insurance-related words without a letter from the Florida Florida Office of Insurance Regulation.
  • 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 Florida 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 Florida 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 Florida LLC name search guide to see how you can find the availability of your desired LLC name in Florida.

Before you may register your Trade Name in Florida, 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 Florida.

Register the Florida 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 Florida 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 Florida
  • Application’s name, title, signature, and date Email address

Submitting the Florida DBA Name Application

To file the Florida DBA Name, you must apply to the Florida Secretary of State. In Florida, 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 Florida is $50 Processing Fee, $10 Certificate of Status, $30 Certified Copy.

  • Online filing: For online filing, check the Sunbiz Fictitious Name portal. There, look for the “Trade Names” section. You will get the registration form.
  • Offline filing: For filing offline, you must send the downloaded PDF form or drop it off in person at the Fictitious Name Registration, P.O. Box 6327, Tallahassee, FL 32314

Using the Florida Trade Name

Three “specimens” demonstrating the Trade Name used must be submitted to Florida 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 Florida

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 five years in Florida.

How to Change a Trade Name

You can change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name) by applying to the Florida 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 five years; after then, you can change or renew your DBA if needed through the Florida SOS.

FAQs

What is a DBA Name in Florida?
A DBA Name in Florida is a Doing Business As (DBA) name, which is a trade name used by a business that is different than the business’s legal name.
What is the process for filing a DBA Name in Florida?
The process for filing a DBA Name in Florida begins by filing an application with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations. The application must include the name of the business, the owner’s name, and the address of the business.
How much does it cost to file a DBA Name in Florida?
It costs a total of $50.00 to file a DBA Name in Florida, which includes a $35.00 filing fee and a $15.00 state fee.
How long does it take to file a DBA Name in Florida?
It takes approximately 7-10 business days for the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations to process and approve a DBA Name filing.
What happens after I file a DBA Name in Florida?
After the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations has processed and approved your DBA Name filing, you will receive a confirmation letter with a copy of the approved application.
Do I need to file a DBA Name in Florida if I already have a registered LLC?
Yes, if you are wanting to operate under a name different than your LLC’s legal name, then you will need to file a DBA Name in Florida.
What information do I need to file a DBA Name in Florida?
When filing a DBA Name in Florida, you will need to provide the following information
Is there an expiration date for a DBA Name in Florida?
Yes, a DBA Name in Florida is valid for 5 years from the date it is filed.
What should I do if I need to renew my DBA Name in Florida?
You can renew your DBA Name in Florida by filing a “Renewal of Fictitious Name” form with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations.
Are there any restrictions on the types of names I can choose when filing a DBA Name in Florida?
Yes, when filing a DBA Name in Florida, all names must be distinguishable from existing businesses and must comply with Florida’s fictitious name statutes.
Can I use a DBA Name in Florida for a website or an email address?
Yes, you can use a DBA Name in Florida for a website and an email address.
Where can I find more information about filing a DBA Name in Florida?
Information about filing a DBA Name in Florida can be found on the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations website.
Do I need to register my DBA Name in Florida with my local county or city?
While some counties and cities in Florida may require businesses to register their DBA Name, this is not required by the state of Florida.
Do I need a separate bank account for my DBA Name in Florida?
Yes, you will need to open a separate bank account for your DBA Name in Florida.
Can I use the same DBA Name in Florida for multiple businesses?
No, each business must have a unique DBA Name in Florida.
Is there a penalty for using a DBA Name in Florida without filing it?
Yes, if you operate your business in Florida under a DBA Name without filing it, you may be subject to penalties and fines.
Can I amend my DBA Name in Florida after it has been filed?
Yes, you can amend your DBA Name in Florida by filing an “Amendment to Fictitious Name” form with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations.
Do I need a license to use a DBA Name in Florida?
Depending on the type of business you are operating and the county or city in which you are located, you may need to obtain a license to use a DBA Name in Florida.
Is there a fee to amend my DBA Name in Florida?
Yes, it costs a total of $50.00 to amend a DBA Name in Florida, which includes a $35.00 filing fee and a $15.00 state fee.
Can I use a DBA Name in Florida for a federal tax ID number?
Yes, you can use a DBA Name in Florida for a federal tax ID number.
Can I use a DBA Name in Florida for a DBA in another state?
No, a DBA Name in Florida can only be used for businesses in Florida.
How do I advertise my DBA Name in Florida?
You can advertise your DBA Name in Florida by using traditional methods such as signage, newspaper, radio, and television, as well as online methods such as social media and search engine optimization.
Is a DBA Name in Florida required to obtain a business loan?
Depending on the lender, you may need to have a DBA Name in Florida in order to obtain a business loan.
Can I use the same DBA Name in Florida for multiple locations?
Yes, you can use the same DBA Name in Florida for multiple locations, however, you will need to file a separate application for each location.
Is a DBA Name in Florida required to obtain a business license?
Depending on the type of business you are operating and the county or city in which you are located, you may need to obtain a DBA Name in Florida in order to obtain a business license.
Do I need to register my DBA Name in Florida with the IRS?
No, you do not need to register your DBA Name in Florida with the IRS.
Do I need to publish my DBA Name in Florida after filing it?
Yes, after filing your DBA Name in Florida, you are required to publish it in a newspaper of general circulation in the county in which your business is located.
What happens if I don’t publish my DBA Name in Florida?
If you do not publish your DBA Name in Florida, you may be subject to penalties and fines.
Can I use a DBA Name in Florida if I am a foreign corporation?
Yes, foreign corporations are eligible to use a DBA Name in Florida.
Do I need to file a DBA Name in Florida if I am an individual or a partnership?
Yes, individuals and partnerships must file a DBA Name in Florida if they are operating under a name other than their legal name.

Also Read

Why Florida DBA Filing is So Important

One of the key reasons why Florida DBA filing is so important is branding. By registering a DBA, you can create a unique business name that will set you apart from competitors and help establish a strong brand identity. A catchy and memorable business name can help attract customers and make your business stand out in a crowded marketplace. Additionally, having a registered DBA can also help you build credibility with suppliers, partners, and customers, showing that your business is legitimate and professional.

Another important reason to file a DBA in Florida is legal protection. Registering your business name as a DBA can help protect it from being used by others and prevent potential legal issues down the line. In case of disputes or conflicts over the use of a business name, having a registered DBA can provide you with legal recourse and protection. By choosing to register your DBA, you can avoid potential lawsuits, fines, or having to rebrand your business in the future.

Furthermore, registering a DBA can also open up new opportunities for your business. It can help you build a strong online presence, establish credibility with financial institutions, and even expand into new markets. Many online platforms and financial institutions require businesses to have a registered DBA in order to do business with them. By registering your DBA, you can ensure that your business is compliant with legal requirements and open up new avenues for growth and success.

Beyond the practical benefits, filing a DBA in Florida can also help you build a sense of pride and ownership in your business. Choosing a unique and meaningful business name can be an exciting and empowering process that can help you connect with your business on a deeper level. By registering your DBA, you are making a statement to the world that you are committed to your business and willing to take the necessary steps to ensure its success.

In conclusion, Florida DBA filing is not just a bureaucratic requirement – it is a crucial step in establishing and protecting your business identity. By registering your DBA, you can build a strong brand identity, protect your business name, open up new opportunities, and build a sense of pride and ownership in your business. So, if you are starting a new business or looking to rebrand an existing one, don’t overlook the importance of filing a DBA in Florida. It could be the first step towards a successful and thriving business venture.

In Conclusion

A DBA name in Florida 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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