How to file a DBA in Los Angeles

One of many initial steps of starting a new business in Los Angeles requires filing a DBA. To file a “doing business as” name or DBA in Los Angeles, you use the County Clerk’s website.

By Douglas Wade, Attorney

Email | Call (800) 484-4610

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

Table of Contents

1. How to a DBA in Los Angeles and surrounding cities

2. What Does DBA Mean?

3. Reasons for a DBA

4. DBA Requirements in LA

5. When do I File my DBA in LA?

6. Research your DBA

7. Your DBA in LA is All Set

How to a DBA in Los Angeles and surrounding cities

The primary purpose of filing a Fictitious Business Name Statement is to inform the public with whom they are doing business. All California-based businesses operating a DBA must register in the county where they have their principal place of business.

To file a DBA in Los Angeles, you need to file the DBA paperwork with the Los Angeles registrar. At anytime you need assistance with starting a new business or filing a dba, please contact our Los Angeles attorney for small business.

What Does DBA Mean?

DBA – which stands for ‘doing business as’ – represents a company or individual running a business under a fictitious name. A DBA, or “doing business as”, comes into play if, for example, your Inc.’s legal name is “Jane Hancock” but you want customers to know you as “Jane’s Salon.”

A DBA is a formalized, legal nickname for a business or company. It also does not include the corporate name of the company. While businesses that utilize these terms in their names are everywhere, there are also a significant number of business owners out there who prefer to use DBAs. DBAs are separate from the legal name of your business—this is also an important distinction.

Reasons for a DBA

A DBA can be filed in order for a company to transact business under the company’s domain name. Filing for a DBA allows you to conduct business under a name other than your own. A DBA is different from your name as the business owner, or your business’s legal, registered name.

Perhaps your legal name is confusing or does not strongly relate to your business practice. Maybe the legal name you would otherwise use is misleading and could turn prospective customers away. Or, perhaps you have found a name that you believe will help your business grow and prosper. For example, instead of “Shirley LLC,” your beach chair business could be called “LA Sea Seats LLC” and therefore provide prospective beach chair buyers insight into what it is you sell and how they might use it.

Regardless of the reason, if you begin doing business under a name that is different than your company’s lawful name, you are using a DBA. Other terms that you may hear are “assumed name” or “fictitious name.”

In order to secure your Los Angeles DBA, there are a few steps you will need to take. One of these is simply to file with the office of the LA County Clerk via the web. Before you do that, though, let’s take a glance at some other requirements.

DBA Requirements in LA

Another term people use for this type of business name is a “trade name,” but the one we are most used to hearing is DBA. While you will file for your DBA in your chosen county—the county in which you do business—you will also want to check on the rules of the state of California. State-wide rules may apply to different counties, so whether you are in LA or San Diego, it is always beneficial to check in with your home state offices.

Let’s look at the main differences, so you understand if you should file for a DBA. If a woman named Jennifer Flowers wants to open a business in LA that is called “Jennifer Flowers Pet Grooming,” it will not be necessary to file a DBA statement in Los Angeles county.

However, if Ms. Flowers wants her new business to be called “Paws and Tails Grooming,” she will need to file the proper statement that expressly notes her fictitious name.

If you are looking into forming a partnership or have already formed one and would like to file for a DBA in Los Angeles, pay attention. If the name of your business does not include the last names of each of the partners, you will need a DBA from LA county.

If you are a part of a business corporation or LLC and you will be using a name that is different than the one already filed with California, you will also need to file for a DBA in LA.

Tip: Before you get your heart set on the perfect name, it is important to note that popular DBAs can be reserved quickly, and once the name is taken, you will have to think of another one. Before you search to see if your name is available, also make sure that your name is not misleading. For example, if you are not running a corporation with limited liability, then “LLC” should not be a part of your name; this would be deceptive to customers and competitors alike.

In order to search for your DBA name and check on its availability, check out the website for the LA County Clerk. The online database should prove helpful, just in case your first choice has already been reserved or trademarked.

When do I File my DBA in LA?

You 40 days to file DBA after opening up shop. However, we do not suggest waiting anywhere near that long since this increases the probability that your name might be reserved already. The primary purpose of filing a Fictitious Business Name Statement is to inform the public with whom they are doing business.

Research your DBA

Instead, do your research: conduct a search online, which costs $5 per name. Then, follow the instructions on the LA County Clerk’s website for sending in a statement to reserve your fictitious company name. If filing online is not going to work for you, you may mail it or even register through a chosen third party. The fee ($26) is manageable, and after five years, remember that you will be required to renew your license.

Next, you will need to post a statement or announcement in a newspaper located close to your business. Simply contact a local paper and tell them that you need to post a DBA statement; they will fill you in on the process. Also, LA’s County Clerk office will be able to give you a list of newspapers that will work before you contact them, saving you time. Please note that the statement that you publish needs to run for four consecutive weeks. This will help secure your name legally, but the good news is that it will also provide a great source of publicity.

Tip: If the County Clerk of LA does accept your application, this means that you have adhered to all the county’s requirements. Congrats! However, the clerk’s office will not research legal questions or conflicts on your company’s behalf.

If a company takes legal action against you because your name is too similar to their trademarked name, then, unfortunately, the proof of your county’s approval of the DBA name does not constitute a legal defense. This is something to make a note of going forward.

Your DBA in LA is All Set

Hopefully, this article has provided relevant information going forward and will be useful in your business career. Although there are several important steps to take here, we are confident that you are up to the challenge. If you have additional questions about registering a DBA in Los Angeles, California, our Business Lawyers & Corporate Lawyers are ready to assist you, so reach out to Nakase Wade California Law Offices today.

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

See all blogs: Business | Corporate | Employment

Most recent blogs:

Best Free Payroll Software for Small Businesses and Startups in 2025

Find the best free payroll software options for small businesses and startups in 2025 with essential tools and flexible features. Compare user-friendly platforms offering global payments, tax calculations, employee portals, and cloud access at no cost.

What Services Does a California Business Lawyer Provide?

A California business lawyer helps protect your company by providing legal guidance on structure, taxation, contracts, and compliance. Their services ensure you avoid costly mistakes and navigate disputes, allowing you to focus on growth.

Where Can I Find a Business Lawyer?

Find a skilled business lawyer to navigate legal matters like contracts, trademarks, and liability issues. Protect your company with expert legal advice and support.

What Are the Requirements for a Business Contract Termination Letter?

A contract termination letter must clearly state the reason for termination, reference the original contract, and follow required notice procedures. Ensuring proper documentation and adherence to contract terms helps prevent legal disputes and wrongful termination claims.

Are Verbal Contracts Binding in California?

A verbal contract can be legally binding in California, but proving its terms in court is often difficult. Written agreements provide stronger legal protection, reducing risks of disputes and misunderstandings.

Where Can I Find a Business Lawyer Near Me?

Find a business lawyer by seeking referrals, researching credentials, and ensuring they specialize in your industry’s legal needs. Schedule consultations to assess their expertise, compatibility, and pricing structure before making a final decision.

What Is the Statement of Information and When Is It Required?

A Statement of Information is a required filing for California corporations and LLCs, providing key business and leadership details. Filing deadlines vary, requiring annual or biennial submissions to maintain compliance and avoid penalties.

What Is Indemnity and How Does It Apply to Insurance Contracts?

Indemnity protects individuals and businesses from financial loss by ensuring compensation for damages under legal agreements, including insurance contracts. Various indemnity policies cover liability, property damage, and professional risks, with terms defining coverage limits and exclusions.

What Is Gross Profit and How Is It Calculated in Financial Statements?

Gross profit represents the revenue remaining after deducting the cost of goods sold, helping businesses assess production efficiency and pricing strategies. Calculating gross profit involves subtracting direct expenses from revenue, providing insights into cost control and financial performance.

What Is Gross Income and How Does It Differ From Net Income?

Gross income includes all earnings before deductions, while net income is what remains after taxes and expenses. Understanding these figures helps determine tax obligations, loan eligibility, and overall financial health.

What Is Beneficial Ownership Information and Why Is It Important for Compliance

Beneficial ownership information helps prevent financial crimes by increasing transparency in corporate structures. Businesses should stay informed on reporting requirements to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.

What Is Arbitration and How Does It Resolve Disputes?

Arbitration resolves disputes by allowing a neutral third party to make binding decisions, offering privacy and efficiency over traditional litigation. Businesses and individuals prefer arbitration for its speed, cost savings, and adaptability, ensuring enforceable outcomes across various legal frameworks.

What Is a Corporation, and How Does It Differ From an LLC?

A corporation is a separate legal entity owned by shareholders, while an LLC offers flexible management and pass-through taxation. Corporations require stricter compliance and structured oversight, whereas LLCs provide fewer formalities and adaptable ownership structures.

How Do You Incorporate a Business, and What Are the Benefits?

Incorporating a business creates a separate legal entity, protecting personal assets and offering potential tax advantages. This process enhances credibility, simplifies ownership transfer, and provides growth opportunities while requiring compliance with specific regulations.

How Do You Get an LLC, and What Are the Benefits of Forming One?

An LLC provides liability protection, tax flexibility, and management freedom for business owners. Follow seven simple steps to establish one efficiently.

How Do You Start a Business, and What Are the Legal Requirements?

Starting a business in California requires careful planning, legal compliance, and financial preparation. From selecting a business structure to obtaining permits, tax registration, and funding, each step is crucial for long-term success.

How Do Accrual Accounting and Cash Accounting Differ in Financial Management?

Accrual accounting records transactions when they are earned, while cash accounting records them when money changes hands. Choosing the right method impacts taxes, financial planning, and cash flow management for businesses.

Do I Need a Permit to Operate a Vending Machine?

A vending machine business requires permits, including a business license, EIN, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Proper location approval, ADA compliance, and product labeling are essential for legal operation and profitability.

Are There Grants Available to Start a Business?

Government and private grants provide funding to help entrepreneurs start businesses, with eligibility varying by industry, location, and business type. Opportunities include federal programs, state initiatives, and private grants supporting startups, research, and minority-owned businesses.

What Is a Stock Corporation in California – General Requirements?

A stock corporation in California raises capital by selling shares, granting investors ownership and voting rights while maintaining limited liability. These corporations, classified as C or S, follow specific legal steps, including filing Articles of Incorporation and drafting corporate bylaws.

Is a Contract Valid Only if It Is in Written Form?

A contract can be legally binding whether written or verbal, but some agreements, such as real estate deals, require written documentation. A valid contract must include clear terms, mutual agreement, legal capacity, consideration, and intent to create enforceable obligations.

What Is a Cash Receipt and Why It Matters for Business Transactions

A cash receipt records the exchange of cash during a transaction, detailing the amount, parties involved, and purchase specifics. Maintaining accurate cash receipts supports tax reporting, financial management, and dispute resolution while ensuring compliance with audits.