Is a Fictitious Business Name the Same as a DBA?
Yes, a fictitious business name and a DBA (“Doing Business As”) are essentially the same. Both terms refer to a trade name that a business uses when operating under a name that differs from its legally registered entity name.
Legal Definition and Use
A fictitious business name (or DBA) is not a separate legal entity. Instead, it is a public record that links a business’s trade name to its legal owner. This requirement exists to ensure transparency and protect consumers.
Common scenarios include:
- A sole proprietor named Susan Lee operating as “Lee Marketing Group”
- An LLC registered as “Greenstone Ventures LLC” doing business as “Greenstone Consulting”
Businesses should file a DBA or Fictitious Name
Registering a DBA or fictitious name allows businesses to:
- Operate under a brand name distinct from their legal name
- Open bank accounts in the trade name
- Enter contracts and advertise with a consistent market identity
- Comply with state and local laws regarding business transparency
Terminology Varies by State
- “DBA” is commonly used in states like New York, Texas, and Illinois
- “Fictitious business name” is the formal term used in California, Pennsylvania, and Florida
Despite the difference in terminology, they serve the same legal function across jurisdictions.
Conclusion
People usually use fictitious business name and DBA to mean the same thing – it's just a different name a business can use to operate. If you want to make sure you're following all the rules and get everything filed right in different places, companies such as One IBC USA can help you do it quickly and correctly.
