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

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Get a DBA Name in New Jersey

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 Jersey. 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 Jersey.

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 Jersey business.

How to Get a DBA Name in New Jersey

What is a DBA Name?

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

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to Get a DBA Name in New Jersey

Starting a business in New Jersey 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 Jersey.

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 Jersey:

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

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 Jersey, there are two methods, by mail and in person. 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 Jersey DBA registrations. Be prepared to pay these fees when submitting your registration form.

Step 5: Publish a Notice of Your New DBA Name

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

Step 6: Obtain Any Necessary Permits or Licenses

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

Step 7: Renew Your DBA Registration as Needed

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you already have a registered business name in New Jersey 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 does DBA stands for?
DBA stands for “Doing Business As.”
What is considered a DBA name in New Jersey?
Any names that differ from your actual name or from the name of a corporation, LLC or LLP registered with the State would be a DBA.
Is registering a DBA name mandatory in New Jersey?
Yes, if you are doing business under any name other than your personal name or the registered name of your business entity.
Can I file my DBA registration online in New Jersey?
Yes, you can register a DBA name online in New Jersey.
How much does it cost to register a DBA in New Jersey?
The filing fee for registering a DBA name in New Jersey is $50.
How long does it take to register a DBA name in New Jersey?
You will receive your Certificate of Registration immediately after filing online. If filing via the mail, it generally takes 2-3 weeks to receive your certificate of registration back from the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
Do I need to renew my DBA name in New Jersey?
No, you only have to register a DBA if you change the name you use to conduct business within New Jersey.
Can I change my DBA name in New Jersey after filing?
Yes, you can change your DBA name in New Jersey by filing a new registration.
How long does it take to cancel a DBA name in New Jersey?
You can cancel your DBA name registration immediately by contacting the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
Can a DBA name expire in New Jersey?
No, a DBA does not expire in New Jersey.
Should I conduct a business name search prior to registering my DBA in NJ?
Yes, you should always perform a business name search before registering a DBA in NJ.
Where can I find information on business names available to use in New Jersey?
You can access the business name search on the NJ Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
Can more than one person use the same DBA name in New Jersey?
It is possible, but you must specify the specific location where your business will operate.
Can I register multiple DBA names for my business in New Jersey?
Yes, you can register multiple DBA names for your business in New Jersey by filing a registration request for each name.
Is the DBA name registration I obtain in New Jersey valid in every other state?
No, each state has its own filing requirements and registration rules.
How do I change my address on my DBA name registration in New Jersey?
To change the address on a DBA registration in New Jersey, you must complete an amendment request with NJ Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
Am I required to register a DBA name if I use a business name that describes what my business does?
Yes, even if you use a descriptive name, you must register a DBA to legally do business under that name in NJ.
When must I post my DBA certificate in New Jersey?
You are required to display it wherever your business location operates.
Do I need to submit an application for tax purposes when I register a DBA name in New Jersey?
No, when you’ve registered a DBA name in NJ, your tax reporting will automatically update with the name you provided on your registration.
What types of business registrations are eligible for a DBA name registration in New Jersey?
Sole Proprietorship, General Partnership, or a Limited Partnership, and Limited Liability Company (LLC) businesses types are eligible for a DBA registration in New Jersey.
Can I advertise without using my registered business name in New Jersey if I have a DBA registration?
Yes, by having your DBA registration in NJ, you can conduct business under your business name without it being registered as your legal business entity name.
Can I register a DBA name for my franchise business in New Jersey?
Yes, you can register a DBA name in NJ for your franchise business if you wish to do so.
Is a DBA name the same as an LLC name in New Jersey?
No, they’re different.
How are DBA names processed when filed by multiple people at potentially the same time in NJ?
Any processing happens at random. If two or more people submit the same name request, it’ll most likely be granted to the first processed request.
Can I apply for a DBA name for an out of state business name in New Jersey?
Yes, you could register a DBA name in NJ for an out of state business name if the name is available and not yet registered in NJ.
Can I register multiple DBA names for an LLC business in New Jersey?
Yes, you can file for multiple DBA names for a registered LLC business in NJ, via separate registration request forms.
If I wish to transfer my DBA certificate, what delivery/postal address do I have to submit to transfer my DBA certificate?
To conduct a transfer, contact the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services and follow their processes.
What should I do if my DBA certificate is lost or misplaced in NJ before displaying it?
You should contact the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services if you somehow managed to misplace your business registration certificate. You will likely have to file for a new copy and pay the requisite fee.
What does DBA stand for?
DBA stands for “Doing Business As”.
Is a DBA registration required in New Jersey?
Yes, a DBA registration is required if a business or sole proprietor wants to use a name other than its legal business name.
Where do I file for a DBA in New Jersey?
You can file for a DBA in the County Clerk’s office where your business is located.
How much does it cost to obtain a DBA in New Jersey?
The registration fee for DBA in New Jersey varies from county to county, usually ranging between $50-$75.
Can I have multiple DBA names for one business in New Jersey?
Yes, you can have multiple DBA names for a single business in New Jersey.
Does the DBA filing protect my business name in New Jersey?
No, it doesn’t protect your business name. You should consider registering your business name as a trademark or service mark with the US Patent and Trademark Office.
Are there any restrictions on what name I can choose for my DBA in New Jersey?
Yes, your DBA name should not already be in use by another business in the same county.
Does a DBA registration expire in New Jersey?
There is no expiration date for a DBA registration in New Jersey.
Can I register for a DBA in New Jersey online?
It depends on the county. While some counties allow online registration, some others may require in-person filing.
Can I change my DBA name anytime in New Jersey?
Yes, you can change your DBA name by submitting a new registration application in the county where your business is located.
Can I use a DBA name to open a bank account in New Jersey?
Yes, a bank may require your DBA registration to open a separate account under the business’s DBA name.
Am I required to renew my DBA registration in New Jersey every year?
No, you are not required to renew your DBA registration every year.
Can I use my DBA to sell goods online in New Jersey?
Yes, you can use your DBA to sell goods online in New Jersey.
Can a business entity file for a DBA name in New Jersey?
Yes, a corporation or LLC can file for a DBA name in New Jersey.
Can I use my DBA for a franchise business in New Jersey?
Franchise businesses usually have specific naming requirements. Therefore, you need to check with the franchisor before registering a DBA name.
Can a nonprofit organization file for a DBA in New Jersey?
Yes, a nonprofit organization can file for a DBA in New Jersey.
How long does it take to obtain a DBA in New Jersey?
The time it takes to obtain a DBA in New Jersey can vary depending on the county. Some counties offer same-day registration, and some might take longer.
Do I need any legal documents to file for a DBA in New Jersey?
No particular legal documents are required to file for a DBA in New Jersey.
How often can I change my DBA name in New Jersey?
There is no limit to how often you can change your DBA name in New Jersey.
Can I file for a DBA name in New Jersey by mail?
Yes, some counties allow for mail submission for DBA filings.
What if someone starts using my DBA name in New Jersey?
You can legally protect your DBA or business name by applying for a trademark with the US Patent and Trademark Office.
Can two businesses have the same DBA name in New Jersey?
No, two businesses cannot have the same DBA name in a particular county.
Do I need to get permission from the state to file for a DBA name in New Jersey?
You don’t need permission from the state to file for a DBA name in New Jersey.
Is it mandatory to file for a DBA name to start a business in New Jersey?
No, it’s not mandatory unless you intend to use a name other than the official business name.
Can I have a DBA name in New Jersey different from my registered agent or member name?
Yes, you can have a DBA name in New Jersey different from your registered agent or member name.
Do I need to publish my DBA registration in a newspaper in New Jersey?
No, New Jersey law does not require publication of DBA registrations in newspapers.
Do I need to file my DBA in every county my business operates in New Jersey?
Yes, if you plan to conduct business under a different name in more than one county, you should register your DBA name in all applicable counties.
Can I use my DBA name to open credit accounts for my business in New Jersey?
You can use your DBA name to open accounts with suppliers, vendors, and other credit account providers.
Can I conduct business statewide in New Jersey with my DBA name?
Yes, you can conduct business statewide in New Jersey with your DBA name.
Can I apply for a DBA name in New Jersey if I don’t own a business yet?
It’s not advisable to apply for a DBA name if you don’t have a business set up yet since you will still need to register your actual business as an LLC, partnership, or corporation.

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Conclusion

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

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