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Business Formation Focus

Delaware DBA / Trade Name

Operate under a brand name without changing your entity name. Understand Delaware's DBA requirements and how to register your trade name properly.

What is a DBA?

Business storefront with brand name

A DBA (Doing Business As), also called a trade name or fictitious name, allows your Delaware entity to operate under a different name than its legal entity name without forming a new business entity.

1

Brand Flexibility

Use a marketable name while keeping your legal entity name

2

Cost Effective

Much less expensive than forming a new entity

3

Multiple Names

One entity can register multiple DBAs for different business lines

When Do You Need a Delaware DBA?

Brand Marketing

Your legal entity name isn't suitable for marketing or customer-facing activities.

Example: "Smith Holdings LLC" operates as "Sunshine Bakery"

Banking Requirements

Banks often require DBA registration to open accounts under a trade name.

Example: Opening a business account for your brand name

Multiple Business Lines

Operating different businesses under one entity with distinct brand names.

Example: One LLC operating both a restaurant and catering service

Professional Services

Professional practices often use DBAs for their practice names.

Example: "Johnson Legal Services PLLC" operates as "Delaware Business Law"

Franchise Operations

Franchise owners need DBAs to operate under the franchise brand name.

Example: LLC owns McDonald's franchise location

E-commerce Brands

Online businesses often use memorable brand names different from their legal entity name.

Example: "Tech Innovations LLC" sells as "GadgetHub"

Delaware DBA Registration Process

Important Note

Delaware does not have a state-level DBA registration system. DBA registration is handled at the county level where your business operates or where your registered office is located.

New Castle County

Filing Location: County Recorder of Deeds

Fee: Approximately $25

Duration: Indefinite (until withdrawn)

Publication: Not required

Kent County

Filing Location: County Recorder of Deeds

Fee: Approximately $25

Duration: Indefinite (until withdrawn)

Publication: Not required

Sussex County

Filing Location: County Recorder of Deeds

Fee: Approximately $25

Duration: Indefinite (until withdrawn)

Publication: Not required

Register Your Delaware DBA

Operate under your preferred business name while maintaining your Delaware entity structure. Our team provides administrative resources; consult a licensed attorney for legal advice to navigate the county registration process and ensure compliance.