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

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Get a DBA Name in Washington

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 Washington. 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 Washington.

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 Washington business.

How to Get a DBA Name in Washington

What is a DBA Name?

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

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to Get a DBA Name in Washington

Starting a business in Washington 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 Washington.

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 Washington:

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

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 Washington, there are three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing. The cost of filing a DBA is $24. Sometimes, there may be separate fees for Washington DBA registrations. Be prepared to pay these fees when submitting your registration form.

Step 5: Publish a Notice of Your New DBA Name

Washington 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 Washington or the county agency responsible for DBA registrations.

Step 6: Obtain Any Necessary Permits or Licenses

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

Step 7: Renew Your DBA Registration as Needed

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you already have a registered business name in Washington 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 the name a business uses for conducting its operations and transactions.
Is a DBA name the same as a business name?
No, a DBA name is an assumed name that a business uses for branding purposes, while a business name is the legal name under which the business is registered with the state or local government.
Do I need to obtain a DBA name in Washington if my business will be operating under my legal name?
No, you only need to obtain a DBA name if you plan to operate your business under a name that is different than your legal name.
How do I apply for a DBA name in Washington?
You can apply for a DBA name by submitting a Business License Application to the Washington State Department of Revenue.
Can I register a DBA name online?
Yes, you can submit the Business License Application online or by mail.
What does a Business License Application require?
A Business License Application requires you to provide information about your business, such as its legal name, type of business, location, and owners or officers.
How much does it cost to apply for a DBA name in Washington?
The Business License Application fee varies depending on the type of business and location. The fee is typically between $90 to $120.
How long does it take to get a DBA name approved in Washington?
The processing time for a DBA name application varies, but typically takes around one to two weeks.
Am I required to publish a DBA name in a newspaper in Washington?
No, there is no requirement to publish a DBA name in a newspaper in Washington.
Do I need to renew my DBA name registration in Washington?
Yes, you must renew your DBA name registration every five years.
Can I change my DBA name in Washington?
Yes, you can change your DBA name by submitting a new Business License Application with the updated information.
What if someone is already using the name I want to register as my DBA name?
If a business is already using a name you want to use as your DBA name, you will need to choose a different name.
Can I use a DBA name to get a separate business bank account in Washington?
Yes, you can use a DBA name to set up a separate business bank account.
Do I need to obtain a separate EIN for my DBA name in Washington?
No, you can use your existing EIN for your DBA name.
Can I obtain a DBA name for my LLC in Washington?
Yes, an LLC can operate under a DBA name in Washington.
What happens if I don’t renew my DBA registration in Washington?
Your DBA name registration will expire and you will not have legal protection for that name.
Can I operate in multiple counties in Washington under one DBA name?
Yes, you can operate in multiple counties in Washington under one DBA name.
Can I obtain a DBA name for a sole proprietorship in Washington?
Yes, you can obtain a DBA name for a sole proprietorship.
Can I obtain a DBA name for a partnership in Washington?
Yes, you can obtain a DBA name for a partnership.
What happens if I change my business structure after obtaining a DBA name in Washington?
You will need to register your new business structure with the state and obtain a new DBA name if necessary.
Do I need to notify the state if I change my business address under my DBA name in Washington?
Yes, you should update your business address information with the state of Washington.
Can I obtain a DBA name for a nonprofit organization in Washington?
Yes, you can obtain a DBA name for a nonprofit organization in Washington.
Can I remove a DBA name under a business name that is no longer in use in Washington?
Yes, you can request to remove a DBA name that is no longer in use in Washington.
Can I obtain a DBA name for a corporation in Washington?
Yes, you can obtain a DBA name for a corporation in Washington.
Do I need a DBA name if I’m operating as a freelance individual in Washington?
If you’re operating as a freelance individual under your legal name, then you do not need a DBA name.
Do I need to inform my clients or customers about my DBA name in Washington?
No, there is no requirement to inform your clients or customers about your DBA name.
Can I use a DBA name for a home-based business in Washington?
Yes, you can use a DBA name for a home-based business in Washington.
Can I obtain a DBA name for a foreign entity in Washington?
Yes, a foreign entity can obtain a DBA name in Washington if it plans to do business in the state.
Can more than one business share the same DBA name in Washington?
No, two businesses cannot have the same DBA name in Washington.
Can I trademark my DBA name in Washington?
Yes, you can trademark your DBA name in Washington for a fee.

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Conclusion

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

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