DBA stands for "Doing Business As." A DBA business certificate creates a public record of the name and address of the owner(s) of a business. You are legally required to register as a DBA if you are doing business under any name other than your own (for example, John Smith DBA Smith Consulting Services).

The DBA certificate will contain the name and address of the business and the name(s) and residence(s) of the principals. Besides providing consumer information, the certificate also serves as notice that the filer claims the exclusive use of the name contained in the certificate. Filing at the local level, however, does not protect your name. If you have a business name or a symbol that you consider unique and valuable you may want to also register it as a trademark or a service mark.

DBA certificate fees are generally less than $50, certificates are usually good for at least three years, and you may need to sign the form in the presence of a notary public, but the process and cost varies by town. Contact the town clerk's office in the town where your business is located for more information.

Tags: General Business

Local or remote website design and search engine optimization (SEO), website hosting, WordPress theme and plugin development, custom database applications and book or catalog typesetting & design. Client-managed online payroll, including direct deposit and electronic payroll tax filing. Bookkeeping and on-site payroll services for local businesses (greater Easthampton, MA 01027, Northampton, MA 01060, Florence, MA 01062 and Hadley, MA 01035 areas). In business since 1990; member Easthampton Chamber of Commerce since 1999. About the Company.