So You Want a Fancy New Name, Eh? Your Guide to Getting a DBA in Florida
Ever get tired of folks calling your business "John's Plumbing" when your name is actually Jessica and you specialize in dog grooming? Yeah, we've all been there. That's where the magical DBA (Doing Business As) comes in, your ticket to a cooler, catchier business name. But hold your metaphorical horses, aspiring entrepreneur! There's a little Florida sunshine you need to navigate before you're rocking that new moniker.
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| How Do I Get A Dba In Florida |
Step 1: Pick a Name Worthy of Your Awesomeness (But Check It's Available First)
This is the fun part! Brainstorm like a boss. Channel your inner Shakespeare (or maybe Beyonce, depending on your vibe). Just make sure it's not already snatched up by someone else. Pro-tip: The Florida Department of State has a nifty tool to check name availability – it's like a business name fortune teller, only way more reliable (and less likely to tell you to quit your day job).
Step 2: Spread the Word (Even Though You Don't Technically Have To)
Okay, this one's a little weird. Florida law says you gotta publish a notice of your intent to use a DBA in a newspaper. But here's the twist – you don't actually have to provide proof! The application just asks you to certify that you did it with a wink and a nudge. Kind of like promising your mom you cleaned your room when you really just shoved everything under the bed. Important Note: This doesn't apply to counties without newspapers, so you might need to get your digital marketing mojo on and publish it online instead.
Step 3: Make it Official (and Pay a Tiny Tribute)
Now it's time to tie the knot – well, sort of. Head over to the SunBiz website (Florida's business portal, because everything's sunshine and beaches down here, right?). Fill out the online form, throw down a cool $50 filing fee, and voila! You're the proud owner of a shiny new DBA certificate.
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
But Wait, There's More! (Insert dramatic music here)
This little beauty only lasts five years, so be sure to renew it before it turns into a pumpkin – or, you know, an expired business name.
FAQ: Your Burning DBA Questions Answered (with Lightning Speed)
How to check if a DBA name is available in Florida?
QuickTip: Use posts like this as quick references.
Head to the Florida Department of State's SunBiz website and use their handy business entity search tool.
How much does it cost to get a DBA in Florida?
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The filing fee is a cool $50, but you might also incur costs for publishing your notice (if you choose to do it the old-fashioned newspaper way).
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
How long does a DBA last in Florida?
Five years! Don't forget to renew it before it expires.
Do I need a lawyer to get a DBA?
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
Nope! The process is fairly straightforward. But if legal stuff makes you break out in hives, consulting an attorney is never a bad idea.
Can I use my Social Security number instead of an EIN on my DBA application?
Generally not. Most businesses need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to operate. You can get one for free from the IRS.
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