So You Want a Fancy New Name for Your Business in Pennsylvania? Gettin' a DBA, Baby!
Let's face it, "John's Plumbing Emporium" isn't exactly setting the world on fire. But fret no more, aspiring Pennsylvanian entrepreneur! There's a way for you to operate under a cooler, catchier name that'll make your grandma jealous (in a good way). That my friend, is the magic of a DBA, also known as a "Doing Business As." It's like a superhero cape for your business name!
But Hold on There, Captain Creative... What Exactly is a DBA?
Think of it like an alias for your business. You, the brilliant business owner with the not-so-brilliant business name, can strut around town under a cooler moniker. This way, customers will remember your awesome service (and hopefully, not your slightly embarrassing business name).
Alright, Alright, I'm Sold on the DBA. Now How Do I Get One of These Name Disguises?
Here's the not-so-secret secret: it's actually pretty darn easy to snag a DBA in Pennsylvania. No need to decipher ancient scrolls or wrestle a fire-breathing dragon (although that might make a killer marketing campaign).
- Channel Your Inner Sherlock Holmes: Do a Name Check
Before you go proclaiming yourself "Lord Ruler of Widgets" to the world, make sure that name isn't already snatched up by another business. A quick name search with the Pennsylvania Department of State (DOS) will set your mind at ease (or send you scrambling for a new name, but hey, that's part of the fun!).
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
- Form Up! It's Time to Get Papery (or Clicky)
Once you've got your perfect name locked in, it's time to fill out the official "Registration of Fictitious Name" form. Don't worry, it's not the SATs. You'll just need some basic info like your business name, the kind of business you run, and some details about the owner(s). You can grab the form online or snag it from the DOS yourself.
 |
| How To File A Dba In Pennsylvania |
Choose Your Fighter: Mail or Online?
Here comes the thrilling moment - how will you submit your form? Channel your inner postal worker and mail it in, or be a tech-savvy ninja and submit it electronically through the PA Department of State's website. Both work just fine, so pick whichever makes you feel more like a champion.
- The Big Kahuna: The Fee
There's no escaping the dreaded filing fee, but fear not, it's a mere $70. Think of it as an investment in your business's undercover identity!
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
- The Waiting Game (but Hopefully Not for Too Long)
After you've submitted your form (and maybe celebrated with a celebratory pretzel), it's time to wait for the Pennsylvania Department of State to approve your request. Usually, it takes about 5-7 business days, but hey, who doesn't love a surprise in the mail?
Congratulations! You're Now a DBA- wielding Business Badass!
Now you can operate under your swanky new business name and confuse your grandma entirely! Just remember, a DBA doesn't shield your personal liability, so make sure you consult with a professional if you have any questions.
 |
FAQs for the Aspiring DBA-wielding Business Badass
How to name check my business name in Pennsylvania?
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
Head over to the Pennsylvania Department of State's website and do a quick business entity search.
How to download the Registration of Fictitious Name form?
You can find it on the Pennsylvania Department of State's website under the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations.
How to submit the form electronically?
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
The PA Department of State has a nifty system called PENN File where you can submit your form online.
How long does it take to get a DBA approved?
Typically, it takes about 5-7 business days for the Pennsylvania Department of State to process your request.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in Pennsylvania?
The filing fee is a cool $70.
 |
