4 Steps to Start a DBA in Florida

Doing business as, commonly referred to as a DBA, is a great way to protect your small business interests. A DBA does this by helping your small business develop in a way that protects both your business name and legal name. 

Starting a DBA in Florida is quick and easy and will only take a few steps. Use this blog as your guide to setting up your DBA in the state.

What is a DBA?

A DBA is also known as an assumed name, fictitious name, or trade name. In Florida, DBAs are also known as fictitious names.

Although a DBA won’t provide your business with legal protection, it will allow you to operate using a different name from your business name or legal name. When setting up a business, many states require the business owner and certain entity types to have a DBA.

Which business entities register for a DBA in Florida?

A fictitious name registration isn't required if you plan to form a corporation, LLC, or limited partnership. Other business entities, such as sole proprietorships, can register for a DBA in Florida. 

How to start a DBA in Florida

There are four easy steps to starting your DBA in Florida. 

Step 1: Check Name Availability

The initial step to starting your DBA in Florida is to check for business name availability. Your business name must be available and unique, and there are certain abbreviations and words you can’t use. 

You can search for your business name online through the Sunbiz database. 

Finding a unique brand name and a usable domain to go with it can be a bit of a time-sink for new business owners. This free tool from Business Name Zone generates name and domain combos for you based on your input – and it only takes a few minutes.

Step 2: Legal Notice Advertisement

Next, you'll have to release a legal notice. The Chapter 50 Florida statute requires business owners to publish their business names. 

You’ll publish a local newspaper advertisement at least once in the county where your business is located. 

Step 3: Complete the Fictitious Name form

You can complete the Fictitious Name Registration form by mail or online. The form comprises multiple sections and requires the following information: 

• Your fictitious name
• Your business mailing address
• Florida County of Principal Place of Business
• Your EIN
• Email
• Owner information
• Signature

You can request a Certificate of Status for your fictitious name form, which certifies your fictitious name registration. A Certificate of Status also verifies the entity paid its fees through a specific date. This certificate is optional in Florida.

You can also request a Certified Copy of your fictitious name form. A Certified Copy includes a filed stamped copy of your fictitious name registration. This indicates your copy is a true copy and the correct copy the Division of Corporation possesses. Obtaining a copy is optional in Florida.

Step 4: Submit the Form

The final step to starting your DBA in Florida is to submit the form. You’ll submit these materials with a valid form of payment. 

How much does a DBA cost in Florida?

There are three fees you’ll pay to obtain your DBA name in Florida:

• The first fee is $50.00 to complete a Registration of Fictitious Name. 
• The second fee is an optional $30.00 for a Certified Copy of the Fictitious Name Registration.
• The third fee is an optional $10.00 for a Certificate of Status of Fictitious Name Registration. 

How long will it take to receive a DBA in Florida?

The exact time it will take to receive your DBA in Florida varies. 

You have the option of receiving your fictitious name registration by mail, which can take a longer time to receive. It typically takes a shorter time to receive a DBA if you complete some steps online. 

How long are DBA registrations valid in Florida?

DBA registrations are valid for five years after you apply. It expires on December 31st of the fifth year. You can renew your fictitious name by mail or online through Sunbiz.

Let Us Help You Start Your DBA in Florida

Establishing your DBA in Florida is exciting, but the process can be overwhelming, especially if you're just starting out. That's why so many Florida owners and entrepreneurs use 1-800Accountant, America's leading virtual accounting firm for small businesses, for their DBA needs.

Whether it's small business taxes, tax advisory, or any of our professional accounting services, we have the solution you need at a price that works for you. Schedule a quick consultation – usually 30 minutes or less – to learn how we can help.