How To File A DBA In Kansas

Key takeaways

Learn how to decide whether you require a DBA. If you run a business under a name other than your legal name, you'll almost certainly need to file for a DBA.
Learn about the Kansas DBA registration requirements.
Recognize the distinction between a DBA and a legitimate business entity such as an LLC or corporation.
Determine whether a DBA is the best option for your company's requirements and goals.
Get to know that a DBA does not give liability protection. Therefore, consider incorporating a formal company organization for additional security.
Find out about the DBA renewal process and name restrictions.

If you're launching a business in Kansas and wish to utilize a name other than your legal name, you must register for a DBA (Doing Business As). This procedure includes registering your company name with the Kansas Secretary of State's office and issuing a notice in a local newspaper. In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the procedures of registering for a DBA in Kansas and emphasize some important points to remember.

What is DBA?

DBA (Doing Business As) is a legal term that refers to a company that operates under a name other than the owner's or owners' legal name. This can benefit firms that wish to use a more distinctive or descriptive name for branding purposes or for businesses that want to operate many enterprises under a single legal company. Filing for a DBA is registering the new name with the appropriate state or municipal authorities to guarantee that it is correctly registered and recognized for legal and tax purposes.

Why do you need a DBA?

There are various reasons why your company could want a DBA (Doing Business As), including:

Legitimacy: Filing for a DBA can help your business look more professional and genuine by allowing you to operate under a name other than your name.
Branding: A DBA may assist you in developing a distinct brand identification for your company that is distinct from your name or other businesses you may own.
Multiple businesses: If you own numerous companies, a DBA can help you run them all through a single legal entity.
Banking: To create a business bank account, many banks demand a DBA certificate, demonstrating that your company is a legally recognized organization.
Legal requirements: Depending on your state or local regulations, you may be needed to register for a DBA if you do business under a name different from your own or the name of your corporate organization.

How to set up a DBA in Kansas?

The following are the stages for establishing a DBA (Doing Business As) in Kansas:

Choose a name: Select a name for your business not currently used by another company in Kansas that complies with the state's business name rules.
Check availability: Search the Kansas Business Centre website or call the Kansas Secretary of State's office to see whether your desired name is available.
Fill out a DBA registration form and pay the appropriate fee at the Kansas Secretary of State's office. You can file online through the Kansas Business Centre website or by mail.
Publish a notice: After registering your DBA, you must publish a notice of your new business name in the county where your business is situated in a newspaper. The announcement must be published once a week for two weeks and contain certain information about your company.
Obtain any necessary permits and licenses: Depending on the nature of your business and its location, you may require additional permits and licenses from state or local authorities.
After registering your DBA, you must update your business documents, such as your business bank account, with your new business name.

Kansas DBA name restrictions

When deciding on a DBA (Doing Business As) name in Kansas, knowing the state's business name restrictions is critical. Here are some significant limitations to remember:

Names already used by another business in Kansas are not available.
Reserved terms: Certain words, such as "bank," "insurance," and "trust," are only used by enterprises that satisfy certain legal conditions.
Names misleading or deceptive: Your business name cannot be misleading or deceptive, such as claiming a link with a government entity or stating that you provide services you do not.
Offensive names: Your company's name cannot contain offensive or obscene words or phrases.
Trade name registration: If you want to use a name that differs from your legal business name, you must register it with the Kansas Secretary of State's office as a trade name.

By adhering to these guidelines, you may select a legally acceptable and appropriate DBA name for your Kansas firm.

Forms needed to file a DBA in Kansas

To file a DBA (Doing Business As), complete and submit the necessary documents to the Kansas Secretary of State's office. The following forms are required:

Registration Form for the Kansas Business Centre: This form is needed to register your business with the Kansas Secretary of State's office. This form can be filed online at the Kansas Business Centre.
Trade Name Registration Form: If you want to use a name that differs from your legal business name, you must register it with the Kansas Secretary of State's office as a trade name. This form can be filed online at the Kansas Business Centre.
DBA Registration Form: Use this form to register your business name with the Kansas Secretary of State's office. You can submit this form electronically through the Kansas Business Centre website or by mail.
Affidavit of Publication: After registering your DBA, you must publish a notice of your new business name in the county where your business is situated. Once the notice has been published, you must complete a Publication Affidavit and submit it to the Kansas Secretary of State's office.

Kansas DBA filing & registration

First, to file and register a DBA (Doing Business As) in Kansas, choose a name that is not currently in use and conforms with Kansas name regulations. Register your company entity with the Kansas Secretary of State's office if needed. Then, if you intend to use a name other than your legal business name, register your trade name. Fill out the DBA registration form either online or by mail. Submit a Publication Affidavit to the Kansas Secretary of State's office after publishing a notice of your DBA in a local newspaper. Keep in mind that you must renew your DBA registration every five years. Following these procedures will allow you to operate your business in Kansas under a new name legally.

Kansas DBA tax considerations

Examining the tax ramifications while filing for a DBA (Doing Business As) in Kansas is essential. Here are some tax considerations to consider:

Sales tax: If your DBA involves the sale of goods or services, you may be obliged to collect and submit Kansas sales tax to the state. The Kansas Department of Revenue will need you to register for a sales tax permit.

Income tax: Depending on the form of your firm, you may need to submit a separate tax return for your DBA. For example, if you are a sole proprietor, your DBA revenue will be recorded on your personal income tax return. If you operate as a partnership, LLC, or corporation, you may be required to file a separate tax return for your business.

Employer taxes: If your DBA employs people, you must withhold and pay payroll taxes to the federal government and Kansas. You must also register with the IRS for an employer identification number (EIN).

When operating a business in Kansas under a DBA, consulting with a tax professional is critical to ensure that you meet all your tax obligations.

How much does a DBA filing cost in Kansas?

The expense of registering a DBA (Doing Business As) in Kansas varies based on the county you intend to operate in. The filing fee for a DBA in most jurisdictions runs from $15 to $40. Some counties may additionally charge a fee to print the requisite notice in a local newspaper. Your local county clerk's office should check specific fees and requirements. Depending on your company's activity, you may also need to pay for additional business licenses or permits.

Conclusion

To summarize, registering a DBA in Kansas is a simple process that may help you create your business under a different name. However, before filing, taking the necessary steps and considering the legal and tax implications is critical. You can lawfully conduct your business under a different name in Kansas by selecting a name that conforms with Kansas name regulations, completing the registration form, issuing a notice of your DBA, and registering for any relevant licenses or permits. Consultation with a legal or tax specialist may help guarantee that you fulfill your requirements and avoid future problems.

We can help!

At Levy, we help early-stage founders streamline and automate regulatory and legal ops, HR, and finance so you can focus on what matters most — your business.

Like our content?

Subscribe to our blog to stay updated on new posts. Our blog covers advice, inspiration, and practical guides for early-stage founders navigating their start-up journeys.

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.