A California business operates under a DBA (short for “doing business as”) when it uses a legal name other than its own to conduct operations. DBAs are sometimes known as “trade names” or “fictitious names,” and businesses must register with the California Secretary of State before conducting operations using a DBA. California law requires any sole proprietors, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), or corporations that want to conduct their operations and sign legal documents under a name other than their own must file for a DBA.

There are many reasons a California business would want to operate under a DBA.  Please join industry leaders in this 2-hour class to learn if establishing a DBA is right for you. During this class we will help you understand the specifics about a DBA as well as help you fill out the appropriate paperwork and file with the state.

Please Note:  As part of the registration process before this class it is highly recommended that you have already chosen a business name and have completed the appropriate research to see if the name you want to use:

• Is available according to the Secretary of State’s website and county website
• Is not subject to either a federal or state trademark, and,
• Can be bought/used as a domain name for your company’s website.

Otherwise, you will NOT be able to complete the DBA paperwork and submit to the state during this class.

We look forward to helping you take this important step in your journey to start your new business!!

Instructor: Michael DeDonato