How to Get a DBA Name in Minnesota | A Step-By-Step Guide

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Get a DBA Name in Minnesota

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 Minnesota. 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 Minnesota.

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 Minnesota business.

How to Get a DBA Name in Minnesota

What is a DBA Name?

A DBA (Doing Business As) name in Minnesota 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 Minnesota, and market themselves under a separate name from their legal business name. Registering a DBA name in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota, 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 Minnesota.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to Get a DBA Name in Minnesota

Starting a business in Minnesota 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 Minnesota.

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 Minnesota:

  • 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota Business Name Search is essential to ensure the name is not already used. In Minnesota, they have an online business name database that you can search, usually found on the Minnesota Secretary of State Business Filings Online. 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 Minnesota, you will need to complete a DBA registration form, which can often be found on Minnesota Secretary of State website. Minnesota may require additional documentation, such as proof of business ownership or a business license in Minnesota.

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 Minnesota, there are three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing. The cost of filing a DBA is $50 for online filing and $30 for offline filing. However, renewing your DBA every one year would be best. Sometimes, there may be separate fees for Minnesota DBA registrations. Be prepared to pay these fees when submitting your registration form.

Step 5: Publish a Notice of Your New DBA Name

Minnesota 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 Minnesota or the county agency responsible for DBA registrations.

Step 6: Obtain Any Necessary Permits or Licenses

Depending on your Minnesota 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 Minnesota to operate your business legally. This license ensures your business meets local zoning, safety, and regulatory requirements. In Minnesota, 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota state board. DBA filing requires professional licenses if you operate under a General Partnership in Minnesota. 
  • 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 Minnesota state or federal environmental agencies.

Step 7: Renew Your DBA Registration as Needed

In Minnesota, 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 Minnesota. Here are some important aspects to consider:

  • Renewal or Expiration: Depending on Minnesota’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 Minnesota the same as a Trade Name?

Yes, in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota may vary depending on the type of business and the state’s specific regulations.

Do I need to register my Minnesota DBA in the Internal Revenue Service?

No, you do not need to register your DBA (Doing Business As) name in Minnesota 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 Minnesota. The IRS is not involved in the DBA registration process.

However, once your DBA is registered in Minnesota, you may need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in Minnesota 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 Minnesota Registered Business Name?

If you already have a registered business name in Minnesota 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

What is a DBA name?
A DBA (Doing Business As) name is a name used in business that is different from your legal name.
Is a DBA name the same as a trade name?
Yes, a DBA name is often referred to as a trade name.
Do I need to register for a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, if you plan on operating your business under a name that is not your legal name, you need to register for a DBA in Minnesota.
How do I register for a DBA name in Minnesota?
You can register for a DBA name in Minnesota by submitting a form and a filing fee to the Minnesota Secretary of State.
How much is the filing fee for a DBA name registration in Minnesota?
The filing fee for a DBA name registration in Minnesota is $50.
Can I register for a DBA name online in Minnesota?
Yes, you can register for a DBA name online in Minnesota through the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
How long does it take to get a DBA name in Minnesota?
It typically takes 5-7 business days to get a DBA name in Minnesota, but it may take longer if there are any issues with your application.
Do I need to renew my DBA name registration in Minnesota?
Yes, you need to renew your DBA name registration in Minnesota every 5 years.
How do I renew my DBA name registration in Minnesota?
You can renew your DBA name registration in Minnesota by submitting a renewal form and a filing fee to the Minnesota Secretary of State.
What happens if I don’t renew my DBA name registration in Minnesota?
If you don’t renew your DBA name registration in Minnesota, your registration will expire and you will need to register again if you want to continue using the name.
Can I transfer my DBA name registration to another person in Minnesota?
No, you cannot transfer your DBA name registration to another person in Minnesota. The new owner must register for their own DBA name.
Can I use a DBA name that is already in use in Minnesota?
No, you cannot use a DBA name that is already in use in Minnesota. You need to choose a unique name.
Can I reserve a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, you can reserve a DBA name in Minnesota for up to 12 months by submitting a form and a fee to the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Can I change my DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, you can change your DBA name in Minnesota by submitting a form and a filing fee to the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Do I need to publish my new DBA name in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to publish your new DBA name in Minnesota.
What if I want to cancel my DBA name in Minnesota?
If you want to cancel your DBA name in Minnesota, you need to submit a cancellation form and a filing fee to the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Can I have multiple DBA names in Minnesota?
Yes, you can have multiple DBA names in Minnesota.
Will registering for a DBA name protect my business name in Minnesota?
No, registering for a DBA name does not provide legal protection for your business name in Minnesota. You may need to consider registering a trademark for additional protection.
Can I register a DBA name for a nonprofit organization in Minnesota?
Yes, you can register a DBA name for a nonprofit organization in Minnesota.
Can I use my DBA name in other states besides Minnesota?
No, you need to register for a DBA name in each state where you plan to use the name.
Can I register for a DBA name if I’m not a resident of Minnesota?
Yes, you can register for a DBA name in Minnesota even if you are not a resident of the state.
What if I have questions about my DBA name registration in Minnesota?
If you have questions about your DBA name registration in Minnesota, you can contact the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office for assistance.
What if I need to make changes to my DBA name registration in Minnesota?
If you need to make changes to your DBA name registration in Minnesota, you need to submit a change form and a filing fee to the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Can I use a DBA name for an online business in Minnesota?
Yes, you can use a DBA name for an online business in Minnesota.
Can I use a DBA name for a mobile business in Minnesota?
Yes, you can use a DBA name for a mobile business in Minnesota.
Can I use a DBA name for a small business in Minnesota?
Yes, you can use a DBA name for a small business in Minnesota.
Do I need to have a separate bank account for my DBA name in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to have a separate bank account for your DBA name in Minnesota, but it is recommended to keep your business and personal finances separate.
Can I get a DBA name for my sole proprietorship in Minnesota?
Yes, you can get a DBA name for your sole proprietorship in Minnesota.
Can I get a DBA name for my partnership in Minnesota?
Yes, you can get a DBA name for your partnership in Minnesota.
What is a DBA name in Minnesota?
A “DBA” is short for “doing business as,” which means a name a business uses instead of its actual legal name.
How do I obtain a DBA name in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, you must register a DBA name with the Secretary of State’s office.
Do I need to register my DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, in Minnesota, you must register your DBA name with the Secretary of State’s office if you are a sole proprietor or general partnership.
Can I use a DBA name as a corporation or LLC in Minnesota?
No, you cannot use a DBA name as a corporation or LLC in Minnesota.
How long does it take for my Minnesota DBA registration to be processed?
Minnesota DBA registrations are usually processed within 3 to 5 business days.
How much does it cost to register a DBA name in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, the fee to register a DBA name is $50.
Can I register my DBA name online in Minnesota?
Yes, you can register your DBA name online in Minnesota.
What is the difference between a DBA name and a trademark in Minnesota?
A DBA name is a name a business uses instead of its legal name, while a trademark is a symbol, word or phrase a business uses to distinguish its goods or services from those of others.
Do I need to renew my DBA registration in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, DBAs must be renewed every five years.
Do I need a separate DBA registration for each county I do business in Minnesota?
No, one Minnesota DBA registration covers the whole state, regardless of where you do business.
Can a corporation in Minnesota have a DBA name for a specific division?
Yes, a corporation can have a DBA name for a specific division in Minnesota.
Am I required to have a DBA name in Minnesota if I run a home-based business?
No, you are not required to have a DBA name in Minnesota if you are running a home-based business.
How do I cancel my Minnesota DBA registration?
You must submit a written request to cancel your Minnesota DBA registration.
Can I trademark my DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, you can trademark your DBA name in Minnesota if it meets certain requirements.
Do I need to publish my DBA name in a newspaper in Minnesota?
No, you are not required to publish your DBA name in a newspaper in Minnesota.
What happens if someone else is already using the DBA name I want to use in Minnesota?
If the name is already in use, you cannot register it as your DBA name in Minnesota.
Can I use a DBA name that someone else has trademarked in Minnesota?
No, you cannot use a DBA name that has already been trademarked by someone else in Minnesota.
Are there any restrictions on what I can use as my DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, you cannot use names that are likely to deceive or mislead the public in Minnesota.
Do Minnesota DBA registrations expire?
Yes, Minnesota DBA registrations expire after five years.
How many DBA names can I register in Minnesota?
There is no limit to the number of DBA names you can register in Minnesota.
What is the address I can send my DBA name registration to in Minnesota?
You can mail your DBA name registration to Minnesota Secretary of State, Business Services, 60 Empire Drive, Suite 100, St. Paul, MN 55103.
What happens if I don’t register my DBA name in Minnesota?
If you don’t register your DBA name in Minnesota, you could face fines and penalties, as well as legal and financial consequences.
Who should apply for a DBA name in Minnesota?
Business owners who want to operate under a name other than their legal name should apply for a DBA name in Minnesota.
Can I use my own name as a DBA name in Minnesota?
Yes, you can use your own name as your DBA name in Minnesota.
Can I get a DBA name for a non-profit organization in Minnesota?
Yes, non-profit organizations can register a DBA name in Minnesota if they want to conduct business under a name other than their legal name.
How do I know if my DBA name is available in Minnesota?
You can search the Minnesota Secretary of State’s database to see if your DBA name is available.
Can I get a copy of my Minnesota DBA registration?
Yes, you can request a certified copy of your Minnesota DBA registration from the Secretary of State’s office.

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Conclusion

Getting a DBA name in Minnesota 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 Minnesota and enhance your business’s credibility and recognition in the market. Remember to stay up-to-date with Minnesota’s rules and regulations surrounding DBA names, and maintain your registration to ensure your business remains compliant.

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