How To Register A Small Business Name In California

Some counties let you submit online while others require hard copy.

How to register a small business name in california. A doing business as dba also known as a fictitious business name or assumed business name is a business name different than your personal name the names of your partners or the name you officially registered for your limited liability company llc or corporation. Assuming you ve already worked out your business idea how you re going to fund your company and have at least done a simple business plan these are the steps for starting a business in california. Also keep in mind that the name you choose cannot be too close to another company already doing business in california. Generally all businesses that wish to conduct business in california need to register and form their legal entity with the california secretary of state s office file appropriate taxes register as an employer and obtain business licenses and other permits from appropriate cities or counties. To register a business name in california visit your county s website for instructions on submitting a fictitious business name statement.

How and where you need to register depends on your business structure and business location. Registering a gp at the state level is optional. File a fictitious name statement with your county clerk s office if applicable. Pick a business name. To register a gp at the state level a statement of partnership authority form gp 1 must be filed with the california secretary of state s office.

If you would like help deciding on a location for your business contact the california business investment services unit of the governor s office of economic development go biz. To register the name of a partnership llc or corporation. Make sure the name and spelling you want are available before you actually register. Register your business to make it a distinct legal entity. In many states like california business owners must use a dba if they plan on operating their own business using a.

Use the guidelines below for how to register a business in california. Small business administration website to find a tutorial on how to create a business plan. Go to the u s. To register your dba in california search and reserve a name online with the secretary of state.