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


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
Business Formation Expert
Steve 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 Ohio

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

Ohio, popularly known as The Buckeye 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 Ohio.

What is DBA Name in Ohio?

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

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

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

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

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

Submitting the Ohio DBA Name Application

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

  • Online filing: There is no online filing available
  • Offline filing: For filing offline, you must send the accomplished DBA filing form to the Ohio Secretary of State, P.O. Box 670, Columbus, OH 43216 or drop it off in person at 180 E. Broad St., 4th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215.

Using the Ohio Trade Name

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

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 Ohio.

How to Change a Trade Name

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

FAQs

What is a DBA Name?
A Doing Business As (DBA) name is an additional name used by a business or person to conduct business under a name other than their legal name.
Is it required to file a DBA Name in Ohio?
Yes, if you want to conduct business under a name other than your legal name in Ohio, you must register a DBA name.
How do I file a DBA Name in Ohio?
DBA names in Ohio can be registered with the County Clerk in the county where your business is located.
What information is required when filing a DBA Name in Ohio?
The information required when filing a DBA name in Ohio includes your business name, contact information, and the name of the person filing the DBA.
How much does it cost to file a DBA Name in Ohio?
The cost to file a DBA name in Ohio varies by county and typically ranges from $25-$50.
How long does it take to file a DBA Name in Ohio?
It typically takes 7-10 business days to file a DBA name in Ohio.
How long is my DBA Name valid in Ohio?
Your DBA name is valid in Ohio for as long as you conduct business under that name.
What is the process for changing a DBA Name in Ohio?
To change a DBA name in Ohio, you must file a new DBA name with the County Clerk in the county where your business is located.
Is there a fee to change a DBA Name in Ohio?
Yes, there is typically a fee associated with filing a new DBA name in Ohio which varies by county.
What type of documents do I need to file a DBA Name in Ohio?
No documents are needed to file a DBA name in Ohio.
Is there any additional paperwork I need to submit to the County Clerk in Ohio when filing a DBA Name?
No, no additional paperwork is required to file a DBA name in Ohio.
How do I know if my DBA Name has been approved in Ohio?
You will receive a certificate of approval from the County Clerk once your DBA name has been approved in Ohio.
Does my DBA Name need to be published in Ohio?
Yes, you must publish a notice of your DBA name in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where your business is located.
How long do I need to publish my DBA Name in Ohio?
You must publish your DBA name in Ohio for four consecutive weeks.
What is the penalty for not filing a DBA Name in Ohio?
If you fail to file a DBA name in Ohio, you may be subject to fines and penalties.
How do I cancel a DBA Name in Ohio?
To cancel a DBA name in Ohio, you must file a Notice of Cancellation with the County Clerk in the county where your business is located.
Is there a fee to cancel a DBA Name in Ohio?
Yes, there is typically a fee associated with filing a Notice of Cancellation with the County Clerk in Ohio which varies by county.
Can I file a DBA Name online in Ohio?
No, DBA names must be filed with the County Clerk in the county where your business is located and cannot be filed online.
What is the difference between a DBA Name and a Business Name in Ohio?
A DBA name is an additional name used by a business or person to conduct business under a name other than their legal name. A business name is the official legal name of a business.
Is a DBA Name the same as an assumed name in Ohio?
Yes, a DBA name is also referred to as an assumed name in Ohio.
What is a fictitious name in Ohio?
A fictitious name in Ohio is a business name that is not the legal name of the business or person conducting the business.
Can I use a DBA Name in Ohio to open a business bank account?
Yes, you can use a DBA name to open a business bank account in Ohio.
Is a DBA Name the same as a trade name in Ohio?
Yes, a DBA name is also referred to as a trade name in Ohio.
Are there any restrictions on what I can name my DBA Name in Ohio?
Yes, you cannot use a name that is already in use or too similar to another business’ name in Ohio.
Is there a fee to renew a DBA Name in Ohio?
No, there is no fee to renew a DBA name in Ohio.
Can I use a DBA Name in Ohio to sell products online?
Yes, you can use a DBA name to sell products online in Ohio.
Is a DBA Name the same as a trademark in Ohio?
No, a DBA name is not the same as a trademark in Ohio.
Can I use a DBA Name in Ohio to hire employees?
Yes, you can use a DBA name in Ohio to hire employees.
Do I need to register my DBA Name with the Ohio Secretary of State?
No, you do not need to register your DBA name with the Ohio Secretary of State.
Is there a fee to transfer a DBA Name in Ohio?
Yes, there is typically a fee associated with transferring a DBA name in Ohio which varies by county.

Also Read

Why Ohio DBA Filing is So Important

One of the key reasons why Ohio DBA filing is so important is for trademark protection. When a business operates under a specific name that is distinct from its legal entity name, it is essential to formally establish that name through a DBA filing. This filing provides evidence of the business’s claim to the name and can help prevent other businesses from using it. Without a DBA filing, a business may not have legal protection for its chosen name, leaving it vulnerable to trademark infringement and legal disputes.

In addition to trademark protection, filing a DBA name in Ohio is crucial for maintaining transparency and compliance with state regulations. By registering a DBA name, businesses are required to disclose their true owners and provide information about the nature of their business operations. This transparency helps to prevent fraud and ensure that consumers have accurate information about the businesses they are interacting with.

Moreover, filing a DBA name in Ohio can also help businesses establish credibility and professionalism in the eyes of customers and partners. A business that operates under a well-established name is more likely to build trust and attract customers than one that operates under a generic or unclear name. By formalizing their business name through a DBA filing, businesses can enhance their brand recognition and reputation.

From a financial perspective, filing a DBA name in Ohio can also save businesses money in the long run. Businesses that operate under multiple names without proper registration may face legal fees, fines, and other penalties for non-compliance. By proactively filing a DBA name, businesses can avoid these costly consequences and ensure that they are operating within the bounds of the law.

In conclusion, Ohio DBA filing is a critical step that all businesses operating under a name different from their legal entity name should take. By obtaining legal protection for their chosen name, businesses can safeguard against trademark infringement and legal disputes, maintain transparency and compliance with state regulations, establish credibility and professionalism, and avoid financial consequences. Overall, filing a DBA name is a simple yet essential step that can benefit businesses in numerous ways and protect their interests in the long term.

In Conclusion

A DBA name in Ohio 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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