Have you ever wondered how to get a DBA for your Limited Liability Company? If you have, then you are on the right page. Doing Business As (DBA) names, also known as trade names, fictitious names, or assumed names, are an essential aspect of businesses in Indiana. A DBA name allows companies to operate under a name different from their legal business name since it is important for branding, marketing, and legal purposes. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to getting a DBA name in Indiana.
Through thorough research and market study, Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you learn about the DBA name. It would be best to cross-check all the factors before obtaining one for your Indiana business.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
What is a DBA Name?
A DBA (Doing Business As) name in Indiana is a name under which a business operates that is different from its legal name. It is also known as a trading, fictitious, or assumed name. A DBA name allows companies to start a limited liability company in Indiana, and market themselves under a separate name from their legal business name. Registering a DBA name in Indiana, provides businesses with branding, marketing, and legal benefits while also helping to prevent other businesses from using the same or a similar name within the state.
Example of a DBA
A DBA (Doing Business As) example can be illustrated through a fictional scenario involving a sole proprietor named John Smith. Let’s say John owns a bakery business and wants to operate it under a different name rather than using his name.
Legal Business Name: John Smith (sole proprietor)
DBA Name: Sweet Treats Bakery
In this case, John would register “Sweet Treats Bakery” as his DBA name. By doing so, he can legally conduct his bakery business using the name “Sweet Treats Bakery” for branding, marketing, and legal purposes, instead of using his name, John Smith. This allows John to establish a professional identity for his bakery and distinguish it from other businesses.
If you start an LLC in Indiana, registering a DBA name is important when it comes to remembering your business. However, it is best to consult with a legal professional before you begin registering your DBA name. This is to ensure that your business name is available in Indiana.
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How to Get a DBA Name in Indiana
Starting a business in Indiana can be exciting and challenging. One crucial step in establishing your business’s identity is choosing and registering a Doing Business As (DBA) name. Here are the steps to get a DBA in Indiana.
Step 1: Choose a Unique and Appropriate Name
The first step in registering a DBA name is selecting a unique and appropriate name for your business. Your chosen name should be easy to remember and represent your business’s products or services.
Consider the following tips when choosing a DBA name in Indiana:
- Avoid using names too similar to existing businesses, as this may lead to confusion and potential legal issues.
- Stay away from names that may be considered offensive or misleading.
- Research Indiana naming requirements, as some have specific restrictions on what words and phrases can be included in a business name.
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Step 2: Conduct a Name Search
Once you have chosen a suitable name for your business, conducting Indiana Business Name Search is essential to ensure the name is not already used. In Indiana, they have an online business name database that you can search, usually found on the Indiana Secretary of State INBiz. Sometimes, you may also need to check with your local county clerk’s office to ensure the name is not already used at the county level.
If your chosen name is already in use, select a different name and repeat the search until you find an available name.
Step 3: Register the DBA Name
After confirming that your chosen name is available, the next step is registering your DBA name with the appropriate state or county agency. In Indiana, you will need to complete a DBA registration form, which can often be found on Indiana Secretary of State website. Indiana may require additional documentation, such as proof of business ownership or a business license in Indiana.
When filling out the registration form, provide accurate and complete information. Any errors or omissions may lead to delays in processing or even the rejection of your application.
Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee
A fee is typically associated with registering a DBA name. In Indiana, there are two methods, by mail and in person. The cost of filing a DBA is $35. Sometimes, there may be separate fees for Indiana DBA registrations. Be prepared to pay these fees when submitting your registration form.
Step 5: Publish a Notice of Your New DBA Name
Indiana requires you to publish a notice of your new DBA name in a local newspaper. This step will inform the public of your intention to operate under a fictitious name.
The notice must typically include your DBA name, legal business name, business address, and owner’s name. You may need to provide proof of publication to Indiana or the county agency responsible for DBA registrations.
Step 6: Obtain Any Necessary Permits or Licenses
Depending on your Indiana business’s nature and location, you may need additional permits or licenses to operate under your DBA name.
The permits and licenses required for your business will depend on your business’s nature, location, and local and state regulations. Here are some common types of permits and licenses that might be required when operating under a DBA:
- Business License: A general business license may be required in Indiana to operate your business legally. This license ensures your business meets local zoning, safety, and regulatory requirements. In Indiana, the costs of obtaining a business license range from $50 – $300.
- Sales Tax Permit: If your business sells taxable goods or services, you may need a Sales Tax Permit from Indiana Department of Revenue.
- Professional Licenses: Depending on your business type, you may need specific professional licenses or certifications. For example, if you are operating a restaurant, you may need a food handler’s permit; if you offer professional services such as accounting or legal services, you may need a professional license from Indiana state board. DBA filing requires professional licenses if you operate under a General Partnership in Indiana.
- Health and Safety Permits: Businesses in certain industries, such as food service, may require health and safety permits to ensure compliance with state and local regulations.
- Zoning Permits: Depending on your business location and the type of business you are operating, you may need a zoning permit from your local planning or zoning department.
- Environmental Permits: If your business involves activities that could impact the environment, you may need permits from Indiana state or federal environmental agencies.
Step 7: Renew Your DBA Registration as Needed
In Indiana, you are required to renew your DBA registration periodically. This renewal process may involve completing a renewal form, paying a renewal fee, and sometimes republishing the notice of your DBA name. Stay up-to-date with your state’s renewal requirements to maintain your DBA name and avoid penalties.
Maintaining the DBA Name
Once your DBA name is registered and published, it is essential to maintain it to remain in good standing with Indiana. Here are some important aspects to consider:
- Renewal or Expiration: Depending on Indiana’s regulations, your DBA name registration may expire or need to be renewed periodically. Keep track of these deadlines to avoid losing your DBA name.
- Updating Business Information: If your business undergoes significant changes (such as a change in ownership or address), you may need to update your DBA name registration with the appropriate agency.
- Canceling or Discontinuing the DBA Name: If you decide to stop using your DBA name or close your business, notify the appropriate agency and follow any required procedures for canceling or discontinuing the name.
Is a DBA in Indiana the same as a Trade Name?
Yes, in Indiana, a DBA (Doing Business As) is the same as a trading name. Both terms refer to a name under which a business operates differently from its legal name. A DBA or trade name allows companies to conduct business and market themselves using a different name from their legal business name. Other terms for DBA or trade name include fictitious name and assumed name. Registering a DBA or trade name in Indiana may vary depending on the type of business and the state’s specific regulations.
Do I need to register my Indiana DBA in the Internal Revenue Service?
No, you do not need to register your DBA (Doing Business As) name in Indiana with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The registration of a DBA is typically done at the state or local level, depending on the specific regulations of Indiana. The IRS is not involved in the DBA registration process.
However, once your DBA is registered in Indiana, you may need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in Indiana from the IRS if your business has employees, operates as a corporation or partnership, or meets certain tax-filing requirements.
Do I need to file for a DBA if I already have Indiana Registered Business Name?
If you already have a registered business name in Indiana and you plan to conduct business using that exact name, you do not need to file for a DBA (Doing Business As). A DBA is required when a business wants to operate under a name different from its legal business name.
However, you must file for a DBA if you have a registered business name and wish to conduct business under a different name. This applies to sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations that intend to use a name other than their legally registered name.
FAQs
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Conclusion
Getting a DBA name in Indiana is crucial for many businesses, providing branding, marketing, and legal benefits. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can successfully register a DBA name in Indiana and enhance your business’s credibility and recognition in the market. Remember to stay up-to-date with Indiana’s rules and regulations surrounding DBA names, and maintain your registration to ensure your business remains compliant.