How To File A DBA In Arizona

Key highlights

Learn how to pick a name: When naming your firm, be sure it's unique and not currently in use by another company in Arizona. You may check the availability of a name by searching the Arizona Corporation Commission's online database.
Understand the requirements: In Arizona, if you operate a business under a name other than your own legal name, you must register a DBA. You can file a DBA as a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company.
Recognise the procedure: To register a DBA in Arizona, you must complete a form and submit it to the Arizona Corporation Commission, along with the requisite registration fee.
Understand the fees: The filing fee for a DBA in Arizona is $10. This charge is payable to the Arizona Corporation Commission by cheque or money order.
Discover the renewal process: After 5 years, your DBA registration will expire. You must submit a new application and pay the filing cost to renew your registration.

Filing for a DBA in Arizona may appear to be a difficult undertaking, but with some help, it can be a simple procedure. But first, let's go through the fundamentals:

What is DBA?

A DBA is a trading name used by firms in Arizona to conduct their activities under a name other than their legal name. This enables firms to operate under a different name without establishing a new legal body, such as an LLC or corporation. Filing a DBA in Arizona is a quick and easy process that may be done online or by mail. A DBA application in Arizona costs $10 and can be submitted to the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC).

It's critical to recognize that creating a DBA does not create a separate legal organization and does not safeguard personal assets. Business owners remain individually liable for any debts or obligations incurred by the company. Other concerns, including tax responsibilities, business licenses, and permissions, may exist besides the filing charge. To ensure that you comply with all rules, it is critical to conduct research and understand the unique requirements for your sort of business and area.

Registering a DBA in Arizona may be beneficial for firms that want to operate under a different name without becoming a distinct legal corporation. Before creating a DBA, you should carefully analyze the legal and financial ramifications to ensure you make the best option for your organization.

Why do you need a DBA?

You might ask why you need a DBA if you're just starting. There are a few solid reasons why you should acquire a DBA.

A DBA permits you to conduct business under a name other than your legal name. This might be handy if you want to develop a distinct brand identity or if you want to use a name that more accurately describes what your company does. For example, if your legal name is John Smith, but you wish to run your business as "John's Plumbing," you must register a DBA.
You may want a DBA to create a bank account. Before creating a business account with a bank, you must give them a DBA. A DBA certifies that you are conducting business under a certain name.

A DBA may assist you in creating credibility with your consumers and getting a bank account. You may establish a more professional image for your firm by using a name that is different from your name. This is especially critical when dealing with clients or consumers unfamiliar with you or your company.

A DBA can give legal protection for you. You can safeguard your assets from legal liabilities arising from your business operations by registering them under a different name.

How to set up a DBA in Arizona?

Step 1: Select a Name

The first step in establishing a DBA in Arizona is to pick a name for your company. You should ensure that the name you choose is distinctive and not already in use by another company. Once you've decided on a name, you may verify its availability on the website of the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Step 2: Finish the Required Paperwork

The next step is to complete the papers required to file for your DBA. You must file a Trade Name Application with the Arizona Corporation Commission in Arizona. This application will ask you to supply information about yourself and your company, such as your name, address, and business name.

Step 3: Issue a Notice

After filing your Trade Name Application, you must issue a notice in a newspaper in your firm's county. This notice must be published for three weeks and will notify the public that you are operating under a new name.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

After completing the proper documentation and publishing your notice, you must await permission from the Arizona Corporation Commission. Be patient, as this procedure might take up to 30 days!

Step 5: Apply for Taxes and Licenses

After your DBA is authorized, you must register for taxes and licenses. This involves getting a sales tax license from the Arizona Department of Revenue and any other business licenses required by your municipality.

Finally, establishing a DBA in Arizona may be a simple process if you follow these procedures. You'll be on your way to operating your business under a unique and professional name by selecting a name, completing the relevant papers, posting a notice,
waiting for approval, and registering for taxes and licenses. Best wishes!

Arizona DBA name restrictions

To begin with, you cannot select a DBA name that is currently in use by another Arizona firm. We understand how sad it is when the name you wanted is already taken, but don't worry, and there are lots of other fantastic names available. Furthermore, minimizing misunderstandings with other firms and safeguarding their brand identification is critical.

Second, terms in your DBA name that indicates you are a corporation, limited liability company, or legal body are not permitted. A DBA is not a separate legal company but a business method under a different name. Using phrases like "Corp" or "LLC" in your DBA name would be deceptive and might result in legal complications.

Third, you may not include phrases in your DBA name that imply you are a government agency or are linked with one. This is done to avoid misunderstanding with official government bodies and to safeguard those organizations' integrity.

Finally, you cannot use derogatory or improper terms in your DBA name. This includes rude, vulgar, or discriminating language. Let us all make an effort to be respectful and professional in our business transactions, please.

Forms needed to file a DBA in Arizona

Trade Name Application

Submit this form to the Arizona Secretary of State to register your DBA name. This form can be submitted online or by mail.

Application for a Business License

Depending on the business you run, you may need a business license. The Arizona Department of Revenue can help you apply for a business license.

Notice Publication

In Arizona, you must post a notice of your DBA in a general circulation newspaper in your firm's county. You must provide proof of publication to the Arizona Secretary of State.

Trade Name Renewal

Your DBA registration is good for five years, after which it must be renewed.

Arizona DBA filing & registration

To file and register a DBA in Arizona, you must do the following:

Select a name: Choose a different name not currently used by another Arizona firm. Search the Arizona Corporation Commission's (ACC) online database for the availability of your desired name.
Fill out the following application: You can submit your application online or print it from the ACC website and mail it to the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Pay the filing fee: In Arizona, the filing fee for a DBA is $10, which may be paid online or by mail.

After your DBA has been authorized, you must publish a notice of your new trade name in a publication that distributes in the county where your firm is situated. The publication must be made within 60 days of approval, and proof of publication must be submitted to the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Arizona DBA tax considerations

When you conduct business in Arizona under a DBA, you must still pay taxes on the money earned by the firm. Here are some essential tax concerns to remember:

Revenue taxes

Any revenue generated by your DBA is considered personal income and must be reported on your income tax return.

Sales taxes

If your DBA sells goods or services, the Arizona Department of Revenue may compel you to collect and submit sales taxes. The Arizona Department of Revenue website allows you to apply for a sales tax permit online.

Self-employment taxes

As a company owner, you must pay self-employment taxes on revenue produced via your DBA. This includes Social Security and Medicare taxes, which are usually paid in quarterly installments.

Licenses and permissions for businesses

Depending on the nature of your DBA, you may be needed to get specific licenses and permits from the state, county, or city in which you operate. Some of these licenses and permissions may require payment.

Maintaining track of all revenue and costs associated with your DBA is critical to report them correctly on your tax returns. Consider consulting with a tax expert or accountant to verify that you are fulfilling your tax requirements and taking advantage of any available deductions.

How much does a DBA filing cost in Arizona?

In Arizona, registering a DBA (Doing Business As) costs $10. This cost is due when filing to the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC). There may be extra charges related to getting any essential business licenses or permissions in addition to the filing fee. To ensure that you comply with all rules, it is critical to conduct research and understand the unique requirements for your sort of business and area. Remember that registering a DBA does not create a distinct legal company and does not safeguard your assets. Consider incorporating a different legal body, such as an LLC or corporation, to preserve your assets from company responsibilities.

Conclusion

Registering a DBA in Arizona is a straightforward and affordable process that allows firms to operate under a name other than their legal name. It is vital to remember that creating a DBA does not constitute a separate legal entity, and the business owner remains personally liable for any debts or obligations made by the firm. Tax implications and procedures for getting business licenses and permits may also exist. Overall, it's a good idea to investigate and grasp Arizona's unique needs and laws for your sort of business and location. Consider consulting with a professional, such as a lawyer or accountant, to verify that you meet all your legal and financial responsibilities.

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Note: Our content is for general information purposes only. Levy does not provide legal, accounting, or certified expert advice. Consult a lawyer, CPA, or other professional for such services.