Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does DBA stand for?
A: Doing Business As.
Q: Is a DBA also known as a Fictitious Business Name?
A: Yes.
Q: Why do you need a DBA?
A: To meet the bank requirements if you want to open a business checking account.
Q: Can you register a DBA name some else has already registered?
A: Yes, but it is not advised.
Q: What if you don’t publish your DBA in a newspaper for four consecutive weeks?
A: Your DBA name will not be valid after 30 days.
Q: Can you register more than one name at a time on the same document?
A: Yes, there is no limit to how many names can be registered on one document.
Q: How long is my DBA name recognized for?
A: Every five years you must renew your DBA or your name will be void.
Q: What if you have changes to your DBA (adding a partner, business moves location, etc.) before it’s time to renew?
A: You should file and publish a new DBA and file and publish an Abandonment or Withdraw from the original DBA.
Q: Which government office recognizes the DBA?
A: Your DBA business name is recognized in whichever County it is registered.
Q: Forms of payment.
A: Cash, Check, Credit Cards accepted: Visa, Master Card, American Express.
Q: Where should you mail the DBA form you've downloaded from this website?
A: THE DBA PLACE, PO BOX 461233, LOS ANGELES, CA 90046.
Q: How soon will you get your registered DBA returned to you if you mail it to The DBA Place?
A: Within in 42-72 hours.
Q: How fast is the turn-around time if you come into one of our office to register your DBA?
A: The FASTEST in TOWN. We'll have the document back to you in 24 hours.
Q: What if you mail the form directly to one of the County Offices?
A: Expect the document back in 4 weeks.