Registering Your Business Name or Filing a DBA (Doing Business As)

If you're starting a new business as a sole proprietor you'll need to register your business name with your state. The first step is to go to your local county clerk's office to file your business name.

Here's an example from Austin, Texas on how to register a business name:

http://www.co.travis.tx.us/county_clerk/dba.asp

Here's an example from Los Angeles, California:

http://www.lavote.net/CLERK/Business_Name.cfm

California also has an online search tool here:

http://www.lavote.net/CLERK/FBN_Search.cfm

Check to see if your name is available. Complete the paperwork and pay a small fee. Once this is completed you'll be able to open a business checking account in most situations. Some businesses require additional licenses depending upon your state.

The easiest way to get started is to do a search on Google or Yahoo for your local County Clerk's website. Then find the instructions on their site for "filing a fictitious name" a "business name" or a "DBA."

You'll be in business before you know it....

Good luck with your new venture!

Doug