How To Register A Small Business Name In California

Also keep in mind that the name you choose cannot be too close to another company already doing business in california.

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. Make sure the name and spelling you want are available before you actually register. To register a business name in california visit your county s website for instructions on submitting a fictitious business name statement. Pick a business name. 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.

Registering a gp at the state level is optional. 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. Small business administration website to find a tutorial on how to create a business plan. To register the name of a partnership llc or corporation. Register your business to make it a distinct legal entity.

To register your dba in california search and reserve a name online with the secretary of state. In many states like california business owners must use a dba if they plan on operating their own business using a. Check existing names and reserve a name not already in use by mail or in person with the secretary of state. 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. 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.

Decide on a business structure. 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. Use the guidelines below for how to register a business in california. Go to the u s.