So you wanna be a fancy business owner in Florida, eh?
Let's get you set up with a DBA (Doing Business As), also known as a fictitious name registration. Basically, it's a way to tell the world you're operating under a name that's different from your boring legal name (think cool and catchy business name vs. John Doe Plumbing).
But before you unleash your inner entrepreneur, you might be wondering: how much does this DBA thing cost?
Well, fret not, my friend, because we're about to break it all down for you. Buckle up!
The Great Florida DBA Price Reveal!
The main event you've all been waiting for: the cost of a Florida DBA. Here's the skinny:
The Big Kahuna: $50 - This is the state filing fee, the bread and butter of the whole operation. You gotta pay Uncle Sam (or rather, Uncle Florida) to make it official.
Certified Copy (optional): $30 - Think of this as a fancy collector's edition of your DBA registration. It's not required, but hey, if you want to frame it and hang it on your wall (because who doesn't love bragging about legalese?), then this is the price tag.
Certificate of Status (optional): $10 - This is basically a confirmation email from the state that says, "Yep, that DBA is legit." Good to have on hand if anyone questions your awesomeness (doubtful, but hey, cover your bases).
So, how much will it REALLY cost?
Here's the beauty: the minimum cost to get your Florida DBA is just $50. That's like, a couple of fancy coffees. For that price, you can be a legit business owner with a boss-worthy name. Not too shabby, right?
But wait! There's more!
This price doesn't include some additional costs you might incur:
Newspaper Publication: Florida law requires you to publish a notice of your DBA in a local newspaper. This can range from $25 to $$150 depending on the publication. Think of it as a way to announce your arrival to the business world with a little fanfare (minus the trumpets).
Registered Agent Service (optional): This isn't mandatory, but it can be helpful if you want someone to handle the filing stuff for you. Prices vary depending on the service, but expect to pay somewhere between $50 and $100.
DBA on a Budget
So, you can definitely get your Florida DBA without breaking the bank. Here are some tips:
- Skip the bells and whistles: You don't need the certified copy or the certificate of status unless you really need them.
- Shop around for newspaper publication: Get quotes from a few different publications to find the best rate.
- DIY the filing: The state website has all the forms you need to file your DBA yourself. It's pretty straightforward!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to file a DBA in Florida?
The Florida Department of State website has all the information and forms you need: https://dos.fl.gov/sunbiz/start-business/efile/fl-fictitious-name-registration/
How long does it take to get a DBA in Florida?
It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to process your DBA application.
Do I need a lawyer to get a DBA in Florida?
No, you don't need a lawyer to get a DBA in Florida. You can file it yourself.
Can I use my home address for my DBA?
Yes, you can use your home address for your DBA as long as it's a legal business address. However, some cities or counties may have restrictions on using a home address for business purposes.
What if I change my business name?
You'll need to file a new DBA application if you change your business name.
