What is a fictitious business name?
The term “fictitious business name” (or, sometimes, “assumed business name,” “trade name” or “DBA”) is used when a business uses a name that’s different from its legal name. For instance, if John O’Toole names his sole proprietorship Turtle’s Classic Cars, the name “Turtle’s Classic Cars” is a fictitious business name because it does not contain his last name, “O’Toole.” If your business uses a fictitious business name, you’ll need to register it with a government agency – in most states, your local county clerk’s office. For more information, read Registering Your Business Name.
Businesses that use a name other than the owner’s must register the fictitious name with the county as required by the Trade Name Registration Act. This does not apply to corporations doing business under their corporate name or to those practicing any profession under a partnership name. For more information, contact your state or local government.
