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Filing a D.B.A.

If you're like a lot of new biz owners, one of your biggest questions is how to register your business' name.

In most states, you go to the county clerk's office at the nearest county courthouse and tell them you want to register a business name. If you really want to be cool, say "I need to file a DBA." That means you want to fill out a "doing business as" form, which tells the county exactly who is using the name "Frank's Flyswatters" (or whatever your business name is) to do business. 

The DBA form is pretty easy to understand, but you need to make some decisions before you fill it out. 

For example: 

1. Who is going to be registered as the owner of the business? If you have business partners, their names need to be listed on the form along with yours. 
2. What is your business address? If you are renting space somewhere or your grandparents are letting you work in their basement, be sure to take the address with you to the courthouse. 
3. What is your alternate business name? Don't freak out, but you need to have at least two alternate names picked out for your business in case someone else is already doing business under the name you have chosen. (It can happen!) Before the county clerk accepts your paperwork, she will run a computer check on your proposed business name. If someone else is already using that name, you'll have to choose another one... just remember not to groan to loudly in front of the clerk. It's unprofessional! 

Be sure to take your wallet with you, too. Some states charge $20 or less to register a business name, but other states charge $200 or more. (Avoid embarrassment -- call ahead and find out how much money to bring!) 

When all of the paperwork is finished, you'll leave the courthouse with your DBA form. It will have the county clerk's signature and stamp, showing that you have legally registered your business. Keep this piece of paper in a very safe place, and never give anyone your original. If anybody asks to see it, make a photocopy.

More questions about business and investing?