What is a Fictitious Name and why do I have to register?
Missouri law requires any person or business entity who transacts business in the state under a name other than their own “true name” to register that business name with the Secretary of State’s Office as a Fictitious Name Registration. For a sole proprietorship or partnership, a business name is generally considered “fictitious” unless it contains the last name and a recognizable form of the first name of the owner or all of the general partners and does not suggest the existence of additional owners. Use of a name which includes words like “company,” “associates,” “brothers,” or “sons,” will suggest additional owners and will make it necessary for the business to file. See Section 417.200 RSMo. Other governmental agencies and financial institutions, such as banks may require you to file a fictitious name registration prior to obtaining any licensing, tax ID numbers or the opening of a business account.
