How to Get a DBA for Your Graphic Design or Web Design Business

It’s a New Year and your resolutions may include starting your own graphic design business or web design business. Before you take the plunge, it’s important to get a few legalities out of the way. You’ll be glad you did because of the tax savings, and you can protect your personal assets as a result. The good news is that you don’t need to hire an attorney to take care of the basics, although it doesn’t hurt to get to know one early on in case you have questions or run into more complex issues. One important legal aspect of launching your own business is to get your DBA, also referred to as “doing business as” or a fictitious business name.  It’s a way to register your business with your state. Here’s how:

Step # 1 – Figure out Whether You Need It

You may not need to register your business.  Some states don’t require you to get a DBA if your business name includes your first and last name. For example, a business called “Jane Doe Graphics” does not need to be registered. If you decide to incorporate your business, then you don’t need to get a DBA. The exception to that rule is if you conduct business under a different name in the state.

Step #2 – Contact the Right Government Agency

Each state registers DBAs differently. You may have to register your graphic design business or web design business with your county or with the state through the Secretary of State’s office.  You can find out which office is the right one by searching the state and county websites. Once you figure out who to register your DBA with, you can proceed with the registration process.

Step # 3 – Fill out a Statement or Buy a Business Certificate

The rules for how to get a DBA also vary from state to state. It may be as simple as filling out a fictitious business name statement. The statement is usually one page that asks for your contact information, the contact information of any business co-owners, your business structure (ex: sole proprietorship, limited liability company), and a declaration which states that the information you’re providing is true and correct. Some states require you to buy a business certificate. You’ll have to provide the same information, except you’ll need to get it notarized.

Step # 4 – Pay the Fees

Whatever the procedure, you can expect to pay filing fees to get a DBA for your graphic design business or web design business.  The fees are listed on the fictitious business name statement. You may have to research the fee for a certificate on your county or state’s website.  Paying the fee can be worth it, because when you get your DBA you can legally enforce contracts that you sign during the course of your business activities, and it puts the public on notice that you are using the name.  You’ll also have an easier time dealing with financial institutions, such as opening a business bank account.

Getting a DBA for your graphic design business or web design business is a simple process. Choosing a name for your business that will lead to a memorable brand is the tough part.