What Is a DBA (Doing Business As)?

DBA stands for "doing business as". It describes a name a business uses to trade that is different from its legal name. In some places it is called a trade name, a fictitious name or an assumed name.

How it works

A sole proprietor's legal name is their personal name. A company's legal name is the one on its formation papers. If either wants to trade under a different name, many places require a filing so the public can see who is behind it. The filing may be made with a state, a county or a city, and may require a fee. Some places require none, and rules vary widely, so check your local rules.

What a DBA does not do

A DBA is not a company, and it does not limit your personal liability. It also does not give you ownership of the name. It does not stop someone else from using the same name or give you trademark rights. Trademark protection is a separate process, and a name search before you adopt a brand is wise.

Why banks ask about it

Banks and payment platforms may ask for the DBA filing before they open an account in the trade name, because they want proof that the name belongs to the person or company applying.

An example

A student whose legal name is Jordan Lee sells printable planners under the brand "Quiet Desk Studio". If local rules require it, Jordan files a DBA for that name, and can then open an account and sign contracts under it, while remaining personally responsible for the business.

Related terms

See sole proprietorship, limited liability company and registered agent. For the bigger picture, read when a side project should be registered.