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

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Get a DBA Name in Wyoming

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 Wyoming. 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 Wyoming.

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 Wyoming business.

How to Get a DBA Name in Wyoming

What is a DBA Name?

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

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to Get a DBA Name in Wyoming

Starting a business in Wyoming 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 Wyoming.

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 Wyoming:

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

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 Wyoming, there are two methods, by mail and in person. The cost of filing a DBA is $100. However, renewing your DBA every ten years would be best. Sometimes, there may be separate fees for Wyoming DBA registrations. Be prepared to pay these fees when submitting your registration form.

Step 5: Publish a Notice of Your New DBA Name

Wyoming 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 Wyoming or the county agency responsible for DBA registrations.

Step 6: Obtain Any Necessary Permits or Licenses

Depending on your Wyoming 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 Wyoming to operate your business legally. This license ensures your business meets local zoning, safety, and regulatory requirements. In Wyoming, the costs of obtaining a business license range from $70 – $500.
  • Sales Tax Permit: If your business sells taxable goods or services, you may need a Sales Tax Permit from Wyoming 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 Wyoming state board. DBA filing requires professional licenses if you operate under a General Partnership in Wyoming. 
  • 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 Wyoming state or federal environmental agencies.

Step 7: Renew Your DBA Registration as Needed

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you already have a registered business name in Wyoming 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?
DBA stands for “doing business as,” which means the name under which you operate your business.
Is a DBA the same as a business license?
No, a DBA is not the same as a business license. A business license is needed to operate a business legally, while a DBA is used to create an alias for a business.
Do I need a DBA name to start a business in Wyoming?
No, you do not need a DBA name to start a business in Wyoming, but you can use one to operate under a different name than the registered name of your business.
How do I obtain a DBA name in Wyoming?
You can obtain a DBA name in Wyoming by filing an assumed name registration form with the Secretary of State.
Can I have more than one DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, you can have more than one DBA name in Wyoming by filing separate assumed name registration forms for each name you want to use.
How much does it cost to register a DBA name in Wyoming?
It costs $25 to register a DBA name in Wyoming.
How long does it take to register a DBA name in Wyoming?
It usually takes five to seven business days to register a DBA name in Wyoming.
Can I use a DBA name even if I haven’t registered it in Wyoming?
No, you cannot use a DBA name in Wyoming unless you have registered it with the Secretary of State.
Do I need to renew my DBA registration in Wyoming?
Yes, you need to renew your DBA registration in Wyoming every five years.
Can I transfer my DBA name to another person in Wyoming?
Yes, you can transfer your DBA name to another person in Wyoming by filing a DBA transfer form with the Secretary of State.
Do I need to publish my DBA name in Wyoming?
No, you do not need to publish your DBA name in Wyoming, but it is a good idea to do so to inform the public of your business name.
How do I publish my DBA name in Wyoming?
You can publish your DBA name in Wyoming by placing a notice in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where your business operates.
What is the penalty for not registering a DBA name in Wyoming?
The penalty for not registering a DBA name in Wyoming is a fine up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail.
Can I use my DBA name in other states besides Wyoming?
You can use your DBA name in other states besides Wyoming if you register it in each state where you plan to conduct business.
Can I change my DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, you can change your DBA name in Wyoming by filing a DBA amendment form with the Secretary of State.
How long can a DBA name be in Wyoming?
A DBA name in Wyoming can be up to 60 characters long.
Do I need to discuss my DBA name with my business partners in Wyoming before registering it?
It is a good idea to discuss your DBA name with your business partners in Wyoming before registering it to avoid confusion or disagreements in the future.
Can a corporation or LLC have a DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, a corporation or LLC can have a DBA name in Wyoming by filing an assumed name registration form with the Secretary of State.
Can I use my personal name as a DBA name for my business in Wyoming?
Yes, you can use your personal name as a DBA name for your business in Wyoming.
Can I cancel my DBA registration in Wyoming?
Yes, you can cancel your DBA registration in Wyoming by filing a DBA cancellation form with the Secretary of State.
Can I reserve a DBA name in Wyoming before registering it?
No, you cannot reserve a DBA name in Wyoming before registering it.
Can I use a DBA name that is already in use in Wyoming?
No, you cannot use a DBA name that is already in use in Wyoming.
Can I use trademarks in my DBA name in Wyoming?
You can use trademarks in your DBA name in Wyoming, but you should verify that the trademark is available for use and not already registered by someone else.
Is a DBA name the same as a trade name in Wyoming?
Yes, a DBA name is also known as a trade name in Wyoming.
Can I use plurals or different spellings in my DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, you can use plurals or different spellings in your DBA name in Wyoming as long as it is not already in use by someone else.
Can I register a DBA name online in Wyoming?
Yes, you can register a DBA name online in Wyoming through the Wyoming Business Portal.
Can I register a DBA name in person in Wyoming?
Yes, you can register a DBA name in person in Wyoming by visiting the Secretary of State’s office.
Can I file my DBA registration by mail in Wyoming?
Yes, you can file your DBA registration by mail in Wyoming by sending the assumed name registration form to the Secretary of State’s office.
What is the purpose of a DBA name?
It allows businesses to operate under a different name than their legal name.
Can I obtain a DBA name online?
Yes, the Wyoming Secretary of State provides an online portal to submit a DBA application.
Will I need to renew my DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, it will need to be renewed every five years.
How much does it cost to obtain a DBA name in Wyoming?
The fee is $25 for individuals and $50 for corporations.
Can I transfer my DBA name from another state to Wyoming?
No, Wyoming requires a separate filing for each DBA name application.
How long until my DBA name application is processed in Wyoming?
It can take three to five business days, depending on whether it is submitted online or by mail.
Can multiple businesses use the same DBA name in Wyoming?
No, each business must have a unique name.
Do I need to provide a physical address for my DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, a physical address in Wyoming is required.
Do I have to publish my DBA name in a certain newspaper in Wyoming?
Yes, there are specific qualifications for the newspaper that must be used to publish the DBA name.
Can I obtain a DBA name within my incorporation papers in Wyoming?
No, a separate filing is required for a DBA name.
Will I need to pay taxes on my DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, all businesses operating in Wyoming are required to pay taxes.
Can I get a DBA name for a non-profit in Wyoming?
Yes, non-profits can operate under a DBA name.
Are there any restrictions on what I can name my DBA in Wyoming?
Yes, it must not be misleading or unlawful.
How will I know if my DBA name is accepted in Wyoming?
You will receive confirmation from the Wyoming Secretary of State.
Can I use symbols or punctuation in my DBA name in Wyoming?
It depends, it is best to consult the Wyoming Secretary of State guidelines on acceptable symbols and punctuation.
Do I need to display my DBA name on my business cards in Wyoming?
Yes, it is recommended to include your DBA name on all business documents.
If I operate under my personal name, do I still need to obtain a DBA in Wyoming?
No, if you use your personal name as a registered business name in Wyoming, you do not need to obtain a DBA name.
Do I need to obtain a DBA if I plan on operating as a sole proprietor in Wyoming?
No, if you plan to operate under your own name as a sole proprietor, you do not need a DBA.
How will I know if my DBA name has been denied in Wyoming?
You will receive a notice and explanation for denial from the Wyoming Secretary of State.
Can I have a national name and a DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, businesses can operate under both a national name and a DBA name in Wyoming.
What is the process to change my DBA name in Wyoming?
You must submit a new Filing Information Data Sheet and comply with the publication requirement.
Can I operate an online business under a DBA name in Wyoming?
Yes, as long as the business is physically based in Wyoming and follows all applicable regulations.
Will obtaining a DBA in Wyoming protect my business name nationally?
No, a DBA only applies to the state of Wyoming.
Can a DBA name be assigned or sold to another party in Wyoming?
Yes, it is transferable and can be sold with the business.
What happens if I don’t renew my DBA name in Wyoming?
It will expire, and you will need to submit a new application to operate under a specific name in the state.
Can I request a DBA name reservation in Wyoming?
No, reservations are not available for Wyoming DBA names.

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Conclusion

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

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