How to Register a DBA Under an LLC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Registering a DBA under an LLC can provide liability protection, tax benefits, and branding opportunities. Follow these steps to register a DBA under an LLC: choose a business name, check for trademark conflicts, file paperwork, pay fees, obtain licenses and permits, file for an EIN, register for state taxes, set up a business bank account, obtain business insurance, and comply with ongoing requirements.
A DBA, or Doing Business As, is a business name that is registered with the state and is used to operate a business. When you register a DBA under an LLC, you are essentially creating a separate business identity that is tied to your LLC. This can be useful for a variety of reasons, including tax purposes, liability protection, and branding.
To register a DBA under an LLC, you will need to follow these steps:
Choose a business name for your DBA. This name should be unique and not already in use by another business in your state. You can search for available business names using your state's business database or by contacting your state's business registration office.
Check for any trademark conflicts. You can use online tools such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office's (USPTO) Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) to search for existing trademarks that may conflict with your chosen business name.
File the necessary paperwork with your state's business registration office. This typically involves filing a DBA registration form, which can usually be found on your state's business registration website or obtained from your state's business registration office.
Pay the required filing fee. The cost of filing a DBA registration form varies by state, but it is typically a small fee, usually around $10-$50.
Obtain any necessary licenses and permits. Depending on the type of business you are operating, you may need to obtain additional licenses and permits from your state or local government.
File for an EIN. If you haven't already, you will need to file for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is a unique number that identifies your business for tax purposes.
Register for state taxes. You will need to register your business for state taxes, which may include sales tax, income tax, and other taxes.
Set up a business bank account. You will need to set up a separate business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate.
Obtain business insurance. Depending on the type of business you are operating, you may need to obtain business insurance to protect yourself and your business from liability.
Comply with ongoing requirements. Once you have registered your DBA under your LLC, you will need to comply with ongoing requirements, such as filing annual reports and paying any required fees.
It's worth noting that the specific requirements for registering a DBA under an LLC may vary depending on your state and local government. It's always a good idea to check with your state's business registration office or a business attorney to ensure you are following the correct procedures.
By following these steps, you can successfully register a DBA under your LLC and take your business to the next level.
