How to Get a DBA Name For an LLC in New Jersey – 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 New Jersey

Are you looking to establish a business in New Jersey 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 New Jersey, 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.

New Jersey, popularly known as The Garden 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 New Jersey.

What is DBA Name in New Jersey?

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 Certificate of Incorporation or Certificate of Formation 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 New Jersey. 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 New Jersey under a name other than your personal name or an existing corporate name, you must submit a DBA name with New Jersey 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 New Jersey, 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 New Jersey

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

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

Before you may register your Trade Name in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey.

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

Submitting the New Jersey DBA Name Application

To file the New Jersey DBA Name, you must apply to the New Jersey Secretary of State. In New Jersey, you can file the DBA name in two methods, by mail and in person.. The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in New Jersey is $50.

  • Online filing: There is no online filing available
  • Offline filing: For filing offline, you must send the accomplished DBA filing form to the County Clerk’s Office in the county where your business is located. Addresses vary by county.

Using the New Jersey Trade Name

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

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 New Jersey.

How to Change a Trade Name

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

FAQs

What is a DBA Name?
A “Doing Business As” (DBA) name is a business name used by a person or entity that is different than the legal name of the business.
Is filing a DBA Name required in New Jersey?
Yes, registering a DBA name in New Jersey is required for any business operating under a different name than its legal name.
How do I file a DBA Name in New Jersey?
You must file a DBA name with the New Jersey Division of Revenue in order to register a DBA name in New Jersey.
What information is needed to file a DBA Name in New Jersey?
You will need to provide the business name, business address, type of business (corporation, partnership, etc.), name and address of the business owner, and a list of services the business offers.
How long does it take to file a DBA Name in New Jersey?
The filing process typically takes approximately 4-6 weeks.
Is there a fee to file a DBA Name in New Jersey?
Yes, there is a $75 filing fee for registering a DBA name in New Jersey.
What happens after a DBA Name is filed in New Jersey?
After your DBA name has been filed, you will receive a Certificate of Filing as proof that your business is registered under the new name.
Do I need to register my DBA Name with the local county clerk’s office in New Jersey?
Yes, you must register your DBA name with the local county clerk’s office in the county where the business is located.
How often do I need to renew my DBA Name in New Jersey?
A DBA name does not need to be renewed in New Jersey; it is valid for as long as the business continues to operate under that name.
What are the penalties for not filing a DBA Name in New Jersey?
Failing to register a DBA name in New Jersey can result in fines and other penalties, including the loss of the right to conduct business under the name.
Is a DBA Name the same as a business name?
While a DBA name is a business name, it is not the same as the legal business name. A DBA name is an assumed business name used by a person or entity different than the legal name of the business.
Does a DBA Name provide any legal protection in New Jersey?
A DBA name does not provide any legal protection in New Jersey; it is simply a name used for business purposes.
Is a DBA Name the same as a fictitious business name?
Yes, a DBA name is the same as a fictitious business name.
Is it necessary to publish a DBA Name in New Jersey?
Yes, a DBA name must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the business is located in order for it to be valid in New Jersey.
Can I reserve a DBA Name in New Jersey?
No, it is not possible to reserve a DBA name in New Jersey.
What steps must I take to change my DBA Name in New Jersey?
To change your DBA name in New Jersey, you must file a new DBA name with the Division of Revenue and publish a notice of the change in a newspaper of general circulation.
How do I cancel my DBA Name in New Jersey?
To cancel your DBA name in New Jersey, you must file a Cancellation of Fictitious Name form with the Division of Revenue.
Do I need a separate DBA Name for each business location in New Jersey?
No, you do not need a separate DBA name for each business location in New Jersey.
Can I use the same DBA Name for multiple businesses in New Jersey?
Yes, you can use the same DBA name for multiple businesses in New Jersey.
What is the difference between a DBA Name and a trademark in New Jersey?
A DBA name is a name used to do business under a different name than the legal name and does not provide any legal protection. A trademark is a legally protected mark or logo used to identify and distinguish the source of goods or services.
Does a DBA Name provide protection from liability in New Jersey?
No, a DBA name does not provide any protection from liability in New Jersey.
Can a DBA Name be used to open a bank account in New Jersey?
Yes, a DBA name can be used to open a bank account in New Jersey.
Do I need a DBA Name to accept payments in New Jersey?
Yes, a DBA name is required to accept payments in New Jersey.
Is it necessary to have a business license to file a DBA Name in New Jersey?
Yes, a business license is required to file a DBA name in New Jersey.
Is there a limit on the number of DBA Names I can file in New Jersey?
No, there is no limit on the number of DBA names you can file in New Jersey.
What types of businesses need to file a DBA Name in New Jersey?
Any business operating under a name different than its legal name must file a DBA name in New Jersey.
How can I find out if a DBA Name is already in use in New Jersey?
You can search the New Jersey Division of Revenue’s website for any existing DBA names.
What is the process for filing a DBA name in New Jersey?
The process for filing a DBA name in New Jersey is to register the name with the New Jersey Division of Revenue through a Fictitious Name Registration.
What documents are required to file a DBA in New Jersey?
To file a DBA in New Jersey, you will need to provide a completed Fictitious Name Registration form, a signature of an authorized owner, and the applicable filing fee.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in New Jersey?
The filing fee for a DBA in New Jersey is $25.
How long does it take to file a DBA in New Jersey?
It usually takes about 3-4 weeks to process a DBA filing in New Jersey.
Are there any rules and regulations that need to be followed when filing a DBA in New Jersey?
Yes, there are certain rules and regulations that need to be followed when filing a DBA in New Jersey. These include making sure the name is not already in use, and that it does not infringe on any existing trademarks.
Is there any way to expedite the filing process for a DBA in New Jersey?
Yes, you can expedite the filing process for a DBA in New Jersey by submitting an Expedited Filing Request Form along with the Fictitious Name Registration. The expedited request will be processed within 3 business days.
What happens if the DBA name is not renewed in New Jersey?
If the DBA name is not renewed in New Jersey, it will be cancelled by the Division of Revenue.

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Why New Jersey DBA Filing is So Important

First and foremost, filing a DBA name in New Jersey allows you to operate your business under a name other than your own legal name. This is especially important if you plan on using a name that is different from the one listed on your official business registration documents. By registering a DBA name, you are ensuring that no other business in the state can operate under the same name, thus preventing confusion among customers and competitors.

Additionally, registering a DBA name is essential for establishing brand recognition and credibility. In today’s competitive business landscape, having a unique and memorable business name is crucial for standing out among the competition. With a registered DBA name, you are effectively protecting your brand and ensuring that no one else can use your business name or logo without your permission.

Furthermore, registering a DBA name in New Jersey can have important legal implications. By registering your business name, you are establishing a legal entity separate from yourself as an individual. This separation is crucial for protecting your personal assets in the event of a lawsuit or other legal issues. Without a registered DBA name, you could be personally liable for any debts or liabilities incurred by your business.

Additionally, a registered DBA name can also make it easier for you to open a business bank account, apply for business credit, and enter into contracts with other businesses. Many banks and financial institutions require businesses to have a registered DBA name in order to set up accounts or obtain credit. Having a registered DBA name can also make it easier for potential customers and partners to verify your business’s legitimacy and credibility.

In conclusion, while it may seem like a small or insignificant step, registering a DBA name in New Jersey is vital for the success and protection of your business. By establishing a unique and recognizable name for your business, you are solidifying your brand’s identity and protecting it from potential threats. Additionally, registering a DBA name can have important legal and financial implications that can help your business grow and thrive in the long run. So don’t underestimate the importance of New Jersey DBA filing – it’s a crucial step in setting your business up for success.

In Conclusion

A DBA name in New Jersey 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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