As a legal entity, an LLC has its own obligations and rights separate from its members, while a DBA does not have these rights. Whoever uses a “doing business as” name assumes all business obligations, but it is possible to use a DBA as an LLC. Each state has unique laws regarding business formations and maintenance.

How do I add a DBA to an LLC in Washington state?

To add DBA to LLC Washington State, you must submit your application to the State Business Licensing Service, along with the prescribed filing fee. Obtaining a DBA, or Doing Business As, allows you to conduct business in a separate name than your own legal name.

Does Washington state require a DBA?

Washington law requires all businesses file a DBA when they are using a name other than their legal name (the name used to form the business). Getting a DBA also allows a business to open bank accounts, enter into contracts, and otherwise use the new name to operate the business.

Can a DBA have two owners?

“DBA” means “doing business as.” It does not mean “sole proprietorship” because partnerships and LLCs and corporations can “do business as,” or use a fictitious name. If your question is about what you think is a sole proprietorship, it can only have one owner.

How do I get a DBA for my business?

To do business under a DBA, you must complete and file the appropriate DBA forms and pay a filing fee, after which point you receive a DBA certificate. Depending on the state you may be able to file with a local or county clerk’s office, with a state agency, or both.

How do I add a DBA to my business?

Here are the 4 main steps on how to add a DBA to an LLC.

1. Step 1: Select names of your choice. The most crucial step in adding DBA to an LLC is selecting the fictitious business name.
2. Step 2: Search for the name.
3. Step 3: Fill out the DBA form.
4. Step 4: File your registration.

How do I set up a DBA in Washington state?

Register Your Washington DBA You can file online with the Washington Department of Revenue’s website or you can complete the Business License Application. The application will ask for your new DBA name and information about your business, such as: Ownership structure. Unified Business Identifier (UBI)

How to set up a DBA in Washington State?

How to Set up a DBA in Washington. 1 Step 1: Start With a Washington DBA Name Search. If you haven’t already, head over to Washington’s Department of Revenue website to make sure your 2 Step 2: Register Your Washington DBA. 3 Have A Professional Service File Your DBA For You.

How to form a limited liability company in Washington State?

For more information on setting up a limited liability company, visit our How to Form an LLC page and select your state. You can submit your application on the Washington State Department of Revenue’s website. You can file your application in person at the Washington Department of Revenue office. Your Washington trade name does not expire.

How to register a business in Washington State?

By having a DBA name, it is possible for sole proprietors and general partnerships to do business using a name other than the owners’ personal name (s). This name will also be searchable in the Department of Revenue’s Business Lookup tool. Click Next to continue. The DBA name entered will default as a trade name to register in Washington State.

Can a LLC have the same name as a DBA?

An LLC also helps prevent in-state competitors from using your same business name. Generally, your state will not let another LLC, corporation, or other business entity form with the same name as yours. DBAs do not provide any name protection. In all 50 states, an LLC is formed by filing articles of organization with the state.