How to Add a DBA to an LLC: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding a DBA (Doing Business As) to an LLC (Limited Liability Company) can be a complex process, but it's essential for businesses that want to operate under a different name. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to add a DBA to an LLC, including the necessary documents and fees.

A DBA is a fictitious business name that allows a business to operate under a different name than its registered name. This is often used by sole proprietors or single-member LLCs who want to operate under a different name for marketing or branding purposes. However, it's also used by multi-member LLCs who want to operate under a different name for specific business activities.

To add a DBA to an LLC, you'll need to file a fictitious business name statement with the county clerk's office in the county where your business is located. The statement will require the following information:

• Your business name and address
• The name and address of the person or entity filing the statement
• The reason for filing the statement (e.g., to operate under a different name)

Additionally, you'll need to pay a filing fee, which varies by county. The fee can range from $10 to $100, depending on the county.

Once you've filed the fictitious business name statement, you'll need to publish a notice of the filing in a local newspaper. This is a public notice that informs the community of your business's new name. You'll need to publish the notice for a certain number of days, which varies by county.

After publishing the notice, you'll need to file a certificate of publication with the county clerk's office. This certificate will confirm that you've published the notice and will provide proof of the filing.

Finally, you'll need to obtain a DBA certificate from the county clerk's office. This certificate will verify that you've filed the fictitious business name statement and published the notice.

It's essential to note that the process for adding a DBA to an LLC may vary depending on your state and county. You should consult with your state's business registration office or a business attorney to ensure you're following the correct procedures.

Here are the steps to add a DBA to an LLC:

1. Filing the fictitious business name statement
2. Paying the filing fee
3. Publishing a notice of the filing in a local newspaper
4. Filing a certificate of publication
5. Obtaining a DBA certificate

By following these steps, you can add a DBA to your LLC and operate under a different name for your business.

**Filing the Fictitious Business Name Statement**

The fictitious business name statement is a document that requires the following information:

• Your business name and address
• The name and address of the person or entity filing the statement
• The reason for filing the statement (e.g., to operate under a different name)

You can obtain the fictitious business name statement form from the county clerk's office or download it from their website. The form will require you to provide the necessary information and sign it in the presence of a notary public.

**Paying the Filing Fee**

The filing fee for a fictitious business name statement varies by county. You can check with the county clerk's office to determine the exact fee. The fee can range from $10 to $100, depending on the county.

**Publishing a Notice of the Filing**

After filing the fictitious business name statement, you'll need to publish a notice of the filing in a local newspaper. This is a public notice that informs the community of your business's new name. You'll need to publish the notice for a certain number of days, which varies by county.

The notice should include the following information:

• Your business name and address
• The name and address of the person or entity filing the statement
• The reason for filing the statement (e.g., to operate under a different name)

**Filing a Certificate of Publication**

After publishing the notice, you'll need to file a certificate of publication with the county clerk's office. This certificate will confirm that you've published the notice and will provide proof of the filing.

**Obtaining a DBA Certificate**

Finally, you'll need to obtain a DBA certificate from the county clerk's office. This certificate will verify that you've filed the fictitious business name statement and published the notice.

**Conclusion**

Adding a DBA to an LLC can be a complex process, but it's essential for businesses that want to operate under a different name. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can add a DBA to your LLC and operate under a different name for your business.