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

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Get a DBA Name in New Hampshire

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 New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire.

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 New Hampshire business.

How to Get a DBA Name in New Hampshire

What is a DBA Name?

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

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to Get a DBA Name in New Hampshire

Starting a business in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire.

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 New Hampshire:

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

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

Step 5: Publish a Notice of Your New DBA Name

New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire or the county agency responsible for DBA registrations.

Step 6: Obtain Any Necessary Permits or Licenses

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

Step 7: Renew Your DBA Registration as Needed

In New Hampshire, 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 New Hampshire. Here are some important aspects to consider:

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

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

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

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

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

If you already have a registered business name in New Hampshire 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?
DBA stands for “doing business as” and refers to a name under which you conduct your business.
Why do I need a DBA name?
If you plan to conduct business under a name that is different from your personal name, you need to register a DBA name to legally operate your business.
Is it required to register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
Yes, you are required to register a DBA name with the Secretary of State in order to legally operate your business in New Hampshire.
How do I register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
You can register your DBA name online at the New Hampshire Secretary of State’s website or by mail using the appropriate forms.
Is there a fee to register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
Yes, there is a fee to register a DBA name in New Hampshire. The fee varies depending on the type of business you have and the structure of your business.
Can I register a DBA name for a non-profit organization in New Hampshire?
Yes, non-profit organizations can register a DBA name in New Hampshire.
Do I need to have a business license to register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
No, you do not need to have a business license to register a DBA name in New Hampshire.
How long does it take to register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
Online registrations take 1-2 business days to be processed. Paper registrations take about 10-14 business days to be processed.
Is my DBA name protected once I’ve registered it in New Hampshire?
Yes, once you’ve registered your DBA name in New Hampshire, no other business can use it.
Is there a deadline to register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
No, there is no deadline to register a DBA name in New Hampshire, but you should register it as soon as you start using it.
Can I change my DBA name in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can change your DBA name in New Hampshire by filing a new registration with the Secretary of State.
What happens if I don’t register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
If you do not register your DBA name, you may be subject to legal actions including fines, penalties, and being barred from doing business in New Hampshire.
Can I transfer my DBA name registration to another person in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can transfer your DBA name registration to another person in New Hampshire.
Can I use my DBA name in another state outside of New Hampshire?
You will need to register your DBA name in any state where you plan on doing business.
Do I need to renew my DBA name registration in New Hampshire?
No, you do not need to renew your DBA name registration in New Hampshire.
Can two businesses have the same DBA name in New Hampshire?
No, two businesses cannot have the same DBA name in New Hampshire.
Can I register multiple DBA names for my business in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can register multiple DBA names for your business in New Hampshire.
What information do I need to provide when registering a DBA name in New Hampshire?
You need to provide your legal name, physical address, phone number, email address, and the DBA name you want to use.
How long does my DBA name registration last in New Hampshire?
Once registered, your DBA name will be valid until you change or cancel it.
Can I cancel my DBA name registration in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can cancel your DBA name registration in New Hampshire by submitting a cancellation request to the Secretary of State’s office.
What is the status of my DBA name in New Hampshire?
You can check the status of your DBA name registration in New Hampshire on the Secretary of State’s website.
Should I trademark my DBA name in New Hampshire?
While it’s not required, registering your DBA name as a trademark in New Hampshire can offer additional legal protection.
Who can I contact for help with registering a DBA name in New Hampshire?
You can contact the New Hampshire Secretary of State’s office for help with registering a DBA name in New Hampshire.
Are there any restrictions on the DBA name I can choose in New Hampshire?
Your DBA name cannot be misleading, contain certain words related to banking and other regulated industries, or be too similar to an existing business name in New Hampshire.
Can I register a DBA name in New Hampshire if I am an out-of-state business?
Yes, out-of-state businesses can register a DBA name in New Hampshire.
Are there any penalties for operating under an unregistered DBA name in New Hampshire?
Yes, penalties for unregistered DBA names may include fines and being barred from operating a business in New Hampshire.
Can I register a DBA name for a home-based business in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can register a DBA name for a home-based business in New Hampshire.
What types of businesses can register a DBA name in New Hampshire?
All types of businesses – sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, corporations, and non-profit organizations – can register a DBA name in New Hampshire.
Do I need to file a DBA in New Hampshire?
Yes, if you want to operate your business under a name other than your own name or your legally registered business name, you need to file a DBA in New Hampshire.
What are the requirements for a DBA in New Hampshire?
To file a DBA in New Hampshire, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid government-issued ID.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in New Hampshire?
The fee for filing a DBA in New Hampshire is $50.
Where do I file a DBA in New Hampshire?
You can file a DBA with the New Hampshire Secretary of State’s office.
Can I file a DBA online in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can file a DBA online through the New Hampshire Secretary of State’s website.
How long does it take to get a DBA in New Hampshire?
It typically takes about 7-10 business days to get your DBA in New Hampshire.
How long does a New Hampshire DBA last?
Your New Hampshire DBA is valid for 5 years from the date of filing.
Can I use my New Hampshire DBA in other states?
No, your New Hampshire DBA only applies to your business operations in the state of New Hampshire. You will need to file a new DBA in other states where you operate your business.
Can I change my New Hampshire DBA?
Yes, you can change your New Hampshire DBA by filing a new DBA with the Secretary of State’s office.
How do I renew my New Hampshire DBA?
You can renew your New Hampshire DBA by filing a renewal application and paying the $50 fee.
What happens if I don’t renew my New Hampshire DBA?
If you don’t renew your New Hampshire DBA, it will expire and you will not be allowed to use that name for your business.
Can I transfer my New Hampshire DBA to someone else?
No, you cannot transfer your New Hampshire DBA to someone else. Each individual or business must file their own DBA.
Do I need a DBA if I register my business name as a LLC or Corporation in New Hampshire?
No, if you register your business name as an LLC or Corporation in New Hampshire, you do not need to file a separate DBA.
Can I trademark my New Hampshire DBA?
Yes, you can trademark your New Hampshire DBA by filing a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Do I have to publish my New Hampshire DBA in a newspaper?
No, you do not need to publish your New Hampshire DBA in a newspaper.
Can I have multiple DBAs in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can have multiple DBAs in New Hampshire as long as each name is unique and you file a separate registration and pay the $50 fee for each one.
Can I change my address on my New Hampshire DBA registration?
Yes, you can change your address by filing a change of address form with the Secretary of State’s office.
Do I need a separate EIN for my New Hampshire DBA?
No, you do not need a separate EIN for your New Hampshire DBA. You can use your existing EIN.
Do I need to file a business license to operate a DBA in New Hampshire?
Depending on your industry, you may need to obtain a business license or permit in addition to filing a DBA in New Hampshire.
How do I cancel my New Hampshire DBA registration?
You can cancel your New Hampshire DBA registration by filing a cancellation form with the Secretary of State’s office.
What is the difference between a DBA and a trade name in New Hampshire?
There is no difference between a DBA and a trade name in New Hampshire. They are both used to refer to a name that a business operates under that is different from their legally registered business name.
Can I add my New Hampshire DBA to my existing business license?
Yes, you can add your DBA name to your existing business license by submitting the appropriate documentation to the licensing authority.
Can I get a New Hampshire DBA for a non-profit organization?
Yes, non-profit organizations can also file a DBA in New Hampshire.
Can a New Hampshire DBA be used for a sole proprietorship?
Yes, a New Hampshire DBA can be used for any type of business entity, including a sole proprietorship.
Can a New Hampshire DBA be used by a partnership?
Yes, a New Hampshire DBA can be used by a partnership if all partners agree to the use of the name.
Can I file a New Hampshire DBA for a franchise?
Yes, you can file a New Hampshire DBA for a franchise if you want to operate the franchise under a different name.
Can I use a trademark as my New Hampshire DBA?
You can use a trademark as your New Hampshire DBA as long as you have the right to use the trademark and it is not already being used by another business.

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Conclusion

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

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