How to Get a DBA Name For an LLC in Montana – 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 Montana

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

Montana, popularly known as The Treasure 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 Montana.

What is DBA Name in Montana?

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

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

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

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

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

Submitting the Montana DBA Name Application

To file the Montana DBA Name, you must apply to the Montana Secretary of State. In Montana, you can file the DBA name in one method, online. The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in Montana is $20.

  • Online filing: For online filing, check the Montana ePass website. There, look for the “Assumed Names” section. You will get the registration form.
  • Offline filing: There’s no offline form submission in the state

Using the Montana Trade Name

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

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 Montana.

How to Change a Trade Name

You can change your Trade Name (DBA or Fictitious Name) by applying to the Montana 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 Montana SOS.

FAQs

What is a DBA Name?
DBA, which stands for “Doing Business As,” is an alternate name used by companies and individuals to identify their business. It is also known as an assumed name or trade name.
What is the process for Filing a DBA Name in Montana?
In Montana, the process for filing a DBA name is to complete the Application for Registration of a Fictitious Name and submit it to the Montana Secretary of State’s office.
What are the requirements for filing a DBA Name in Montana?
In Montana, the requirements for filing a DBA name include providing the name of the owner of the business, the address of the business, and a statement of the business purpose.
Is there a fee to file a DBA Name in Montana?
Yes, there is a $20 filing fee to file a DBA name in Montana.
How do I find out if a DBA Name is available in Montana?
To find out if a DBA name is available in Montana, you can search the Montana Secretary of State’s website for existing DBA names.
How long does it take to file a DBA Name in Montana?
It typically takes up to two weeks to file a DBA name in Montana.
How long is a DBA Name valid in Montana?
A DBA name is valid in Montana for four years and must then be renewed.
What documents do I need to file a DBA Name in Montana?
Documents that are required to file a DBA name in Montana include the Application for Registration of a Fictitious Name, and a copy of a valid Montana driver’s license or other form of ID for the owner of the business.
Where do I file a DBA Name in Montana?
You can file a DBA name in Montana at the Montana Secretary of State’s office.
Is there a minimum age requirement for filing a DBA Name in Montana?
Yes, the minimum age requirement for filing a DBA name in Montana is eighteen years old.
Do I need to register a DBA Name with the Montana Department of Revenue?
Yes, you must register your DBA name with the Montana Department of Revenue in order to obtain a business license.
What type of information do I need to provide when filing a DBA Name in Montana?
When filing a DBA name in Montana, you will need to provide the name of the owner of the business, the address of the business, and a statement of the business purpose.
Do I need to register a DBA Name with the Montana Secretary of State?
Yes, you must register your DBA name with the Montana Secretary of State in order to do business in the state.
How do I renew my DBA Name in Montana?
To renew your DBA name in Montana, you must complete the Application for Registration of a Fictitious Name and submit it to the Montana Secretary of State’s office before the expiration date.
Does Montana require any additional steps for filing a DBA Name?
In addition to filing a DBA name with the Montana Secretary of State, you may also need to obtain a business license from the Montana Department of Revenue.
What is the difference between a DBA Name and a Corporation in Montana?
A DBA name is an alternate name used by companies and individuals to identify their business, while a corporation is a legal structure that provides limited liability to its owners.
What are the benefits of filing a DBA Name in Montana?
The benefits of filing a DBA name in Montana include protecting the owner’s legal rights to the name, allowing customers to easily identify the business, and allowing the business to obtain a business license.
What happens if I don’t file a DBA Name in Montana?
If you do not file a DBA name in Montana, you may be liable for any debts or liabilities incurred by the business, and you may be unable to obtain a business license.
Are there any restrictions on using a DBA Name in Montana?
Yes, there are restrictions on using a DBA name in Montana, such as not using a name that is similar to an existing business, not using a name that is misleading, and not using a name that is offensive or indecent.
What other names can I use for my business in Montana?
Other names that can be used for a business in Montana include a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a corporation, or a limited liability company (LLC).
What type of business activities can I conduct under a DBA Name in Montana?
The type of business activities that can be conducted under a DBA name in Montana include selling goods and services, providing professional services, and conducting other business activities.
Who can file a DBA Name in Montana?
Any individual or business that is conducting business in Montana can file a DBA name.
How often do I need to file a DBA Name in Montana?
You need to file a DBA name in Montana every four years in order to keep it valid.
Can I file a DBA Name in Montana online?
No, the filing of a DBA name in Montana must be done in-person or by mail to the Montana Secretary of State’s office.
Is a DBA Name the same as a business license in Montana?
No, a DBA name is not the same as a business license in Montana. A DBA name is an alternate name used by companies and individuals to identify their business, while a business license is required to operate a business in the state.
Can I use a DBA Name in Montana for a non-profit organization?
Yes, you can use a DBA name in Montana for a non-profit organization, as long as you have registered the DBA name with the Montana Secretary of State.
How do I make changes to my existing DBA Name in Montana?
To make changes to an existing DBA name in Montana, you must submit an Amendment to Registration of Fictitious Name form to the Montana Secretary of State’s office.
Can I use a DBA Name in Montana for multiple businesses?
Yes, you can use a DBA name in Montana for multiple businesses, however, you must obtain a separate DBA name for each business.
Do I need to publish a notice of a DBA Name in Montana?
Yes, you must publish a notice in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the business is located in order to register a DBA name in Montana.
What is a DBA Name in Montana?
A DBA Name in Montana is a Doing Business As Name, which is a business name used by a business owner to conduct business activities under a name different from the legal name of their business.
How do I file a DBA Name in Montana?
To file a DBA Name in Montana, you must complete a DBA Name registration with the Montana Secretary of State.
What information is required for filing a DBA Name in Montana?
The information required for filing a DBA Name in Montana includes the name of the business, the business address and contact information, the name of the business owner, and the purpose of the business.
How much does it cost to file a DBA Name in Montana?
The fee for filing a DBA Name in Montana is $10.

Also Read

Why Montana DBA Filing is So Important

DBA filing is a relatively simple process that allows businesses to operate under a name other than their legal business name. By registering a DBA name, businesses can create a distinct and memorable brand identity while complying with state regulations. In Montana, DBA filing is particularly important due to the state’s stringent regulations on business names and trademarks.

Failing to file a DBA name in Montana can have serious consequences for businesses. Without a registered DBA name, businesses may face legal challenges from competitors who claim a similar name or trademark infringement. Furthermore, operating without a registered DBA name can make it difficult for businesses to establish a strong brand identity and may hinder their ability to market themselves effectively to customers.

One of the key benefits of filing a DBA name in Montana is the protection it offers to businesses. By registering a DBA name with the state, businesses can prevent others from using the same name and potentially causing confusion among customers. This protection is especially important for small businesses that rely on their brand reputation to attract and retain customers.

Additionally, filing a DBA name in Montana can help businesses build credibility and trust with consumers. A registered DBA name demonstrates to customers that a business is legitimate and operating in accordance with state laws. This can give customers peace of mind and confidence in the products and services being offered. In today’s competitive business landscape, building trust with customers is essential to long-term success.

Moreover, filing a DBA name can also benefit businesses in terms of marketing and branding. A unique and memorable DBA name can help businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace and attract customers. By registering a DBA name, businesses can create a strong brand identity that resonates with consumers and sets them apart from competitors.

In conclusion, Montana DBA filing is a crucial step for businesses looking to protect their brand, comply with state regulations, and build credibility with customers. By registering a DBA name, businesses can establish a distinct and memorable brand identity, protect themselves from legal challenges, and demonstrate their commitment to operating ethically and transparently. In today’s competitive business environment, filing a DBA name is essential for businesses looking to thrive and succeed in Montana’s dynamic economy.

In Conclusion

A DBA name in Montana 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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