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


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
Business Formation Expert
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Get a DBA Name in Hawaii

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

Hawaii, popularly known as The Aloha 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 Hawaii.

What is DBA Name in Hawaii?

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

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

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

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

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

Submitting the Hawaii DBA Name Application

To file the Hawaii DBA Name, you must apply to the Hawaii Secretary of State. In Hawaii, you can file the DBA name in several methods, online, fax, email, by mail, or in-person. The cost of filing the Fictitious Name (DBA name) in Hawaii is $50.

  • Online filing: For online filing, check the Hawaii Secretary of State. There, look for the “Trade Names” section. You will get the registration form.
  • Offline filing: For offline filing, send the form by mail to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business Registration Division, P.O. Box 40, Honolulu, Hawaii 96810, email it to [email protected], or fax it to (808) 586-2733

Using the Hawaii Trade Name

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

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 Hawaii.

How to Change a Trade Name

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

FAQs

What is a DBA Name?
A DBA name, or Doing Business As name, is a name an individual or business uses for business purposes that is different from their legal name.
Is a DBA Name required for businesses in Hawaii?
Yes, in Hawaii, a DBA name is required for businesses operating under a name other than their legal name.
How do I register a DBA name in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, a DBA can be filed with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), either online or by mail.
What is the cost for filing a DBA in Hawaii?
The cost for filing a DBA in Hawaii is $50 payable to the DCCA.
What information do I need to provide when filing a DBA in Hawaii?
When filing a DBA in Hawaii, you will need to provide the name and address of the entity filing the DBA, the name and address of the registered agent, and the proposed DBA name.
How long does it take to file a DBA in Hawaii?
When filing a DBA in Hawaii, it generally takes between seven and fourteen business days for the DCCA to process the application.
Do I need to publish a notice when filing a DBA in Hawaii?
Yes, when filing a DBA in Hawaii, you must publish a notice of the name change in a local newspaper of general circulation in the county in which your business is located.
How long is a DBA Name valid in Hawaii?
A DBA Name is valid in Hawaii for five years, after which it must be renewed.
Is a DBA Name the same as a trade name?
Yes, in Hawaii, a DBA Name is the same as a trade name.
What are the naming requirements for DBA names in Hawaii?
DBA names in Hawaii must not contain terms such as “incorporated,” “corporation,” “limited,” or “LLC,” and must be distinguishable from other existing business names.
Who is responsible for enforcing DBA name laws in Hawaii?
The DCCA is responsible for enforcing DBA name laws in Hawaii.
What happens if I do not register a DBA Name in Hawaii?
If you do not register a DBA Name in Hawaii, you are not legally allowed to operate under that name and could be subject to fines and penalties.
Do I need to register a DBA Name if I use my own name for a business?
No, in Hawaii, you do not need to register a DBA Name if you are using your own name for a business.
Is there a limit to how many DBA names an individual or business can file in Hawaii?
No, there is no limit to how many DBA names an individual or business can file in Hawaii.
Do I need to register my DBA Name in more than one county in Hawaii?
No, you do not need to register your DBA Name in more than one county in Hawaii.
Can I use the same DBA Name for multiple businesses?
No, each DBA Name must be for a single business and cannot be used for multiple businesses.
Is a DBA Name required for an LLC in Hawaii?
Yes, an LLC in Hawaii must register a DBA Name if they wish to operate under a name other than their legal name.
Can I file a DBA Name in Hawaii without having a registered agent?
No, you must have a registered agent in Hawaii in order to file a DBA Name.
How do I renew a DBA Name in Hawaii?
You can renew a DBA Name in Hawaii by filing a renewal application with the DCCA.
Can I reserve a DBA Name in Hawaii?
No, there is no process for reserving a DBA Name in Hawaii.
Is a fictitious business name the same as a DBA Name in Hawaii?
Yes, a fictitious business name is the same as a DBA Name in Hawaii.
Can I use the same DBA Name in multiple states?
No, you must register a DBA Name in each individual state where you are conducting business.
Are there any restrictions on what I can name my DBA in Hawaii?
Yes, in Hawaii, a DBA Name cannot contain any restricted words or phrases such as “bank,” “attorney,” or “university.”
How do I change the name of my DBA in Hawaii?
To change the name of your DBA in Hawaii, you must file a new application with the DCCA.
Can I file a DBA Name if I am not a resident of Hawaii?
Yes, you can file a DBA Name in Hawaii even if you are not a resident of the state.
How do I know if a DBA Name is available in Hawaii?
You can check to see if a DBA Name is available in Hawaii by searching the DCCA’s business name database.
Can I file a DBA Name as an individual or sole proprietorship in Hawaii?
Yes, an individual or sole proprietorship can file a DBA Name in Hawaii.
Do I need to register my DBA Name with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)?
No, you do not need to register your DBA Name with the IRS.
Is there a fee to change the registered agent for a DBA Name in Hawaii?
Yes, there is a fee of $20 to change the registered agent for a DBA Name in Hawaii.
Is a DBA Name required for a partnership in Hawaii?
Yes, a DBA Name is required for a partnership in Hawaii.
What is the process for changing the owner of a DBA Name in Hawaii?
To change the owner of a DBA Name in Hawaii, you must file a new application with the DCCA and pay the applicable filing fee.

Also Read

Why Hawaii DBA Filing is So Important

While the notion of running a business under a catchy name may seem like a minor detail, the truth is that Hawaii DBA filing is an essential component of establishing a successful enterprise. A DBA name, also known as a trade name or fictitious business name, is used when a business operates under a name different from its legal name. This is especially common among sole proprietorships and partnerships that do not operate under the owners’ names.

First and foremost, registering a DBA name adds an extra layer of professionalism and credibility to a business. By clearly identifying the name under which a business conducts its operations, customers are more likely to trust and remember the brand. This is particularly important in Hawaii’s competitive business landscape, where businesses vie for the attention of discerning consumers.

Moreover, a registered DBA name can be crucial for marketing and branding efforts. A memorable and unique business name can help attract customers and differentiate a business from its competitors. Whether advertising in local publications or promoting products and services online, a well-crafted DBA name can make a lasting impression on potential customers.

From a legal perspective, filing for a DBA name is essential for ensuring compliance with Hawaii’s business regulations. In the event of a legal dispute or contract negotiation, having a registered DBA name can protect a business owner’s rights and interests. Additionally, a DBA name can simplify the process of opening a business bank account, obtaining licenses and permits, and filing taxes.

In the digital age, establishing a strong online presence is no longer optional for businesses—it’s a necessity. Registering a DBA name is an important step towards securing a domain name for a business website and social media accounts. A consistent online presence under a memorable DBA name can help drive traffic to a business’s website, increase brand visibility, and ultimately boost sales.

While Hawaii DBA filing may seem daunting to some business owners, the process is straightforward and relatively inexpensive. By completing a few simple forms and submitting them to the appropriate government agency, entrepreneurs can legally register their DBA name and reap the benefits of a well-branded business.

In conclusion, Hawaii DBA filing is a crucial step in establishing a successful and reputable business. By registering a DBA name, business owners can enhance their brand’s credibility, expand their marketing reach, maintain legal compliance, and secure a strong online presence. With so much to gain and so little to lose, there’s no reason why any business in Hawaii shouldn’t prioritize filing for a DBA name.

In Conclusion

A DBA name in Hawaii 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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