So You Want Your LLC to Dress Up? Adding a DBA in Oklahoma (It's Easier Than Picking an Outfit)
Let's face it, your LLC's legal name might be a mouthful (think "Super-Duper Self-Storage Solutions Incorporated"). But fear not, aspiring entrepreneur! You can have your boring business name and a cool, catchy alias too. That's where a DBA, or "Doing Business As," comes in. It's like a nickname for your LLC, allowing you to operate under a different name.
Why Be So Fancy?
- Branding Power: Imagine rocking a name that screams what you do (think "Sally's Scrumptious Scones" instead of "SconeZone LLC").
- Multiple Personalities? Multiple Names!: Do you have several ventures under your LLC umbrella? A DBA lets each one shine with its own unique name.
Alright, Alright, I'm In. How Do I Get This DBA Party Started?
Here's the good news: Adding a DBA in Oklahoma is easier than parallel parking (and probably more useful).
Name Check! Make sure your desired DBA isn't already snagged by someone else. The Oklahoma Secretary of State's website has a handy dandy business entity search tool (
https://www.sos.ok.gov/corp/corpinquiryfind.aspx Fill Up the Form: It's time to grab a pen (or fire up your printer) and complete the Trade Name Report form. You can find it online or snag a copy at the Secretary of State's office.
Send in the Clowns...Er, Your Application: There are three ways to file your form:
- Online: This is the fastest and easiest option (
https://sos.ok.gov/corp/filing.aspx - By Mail: Snail mail it to the Oklahoma Secretary of State's office (address on the form).
- In Person: Head down to the Secretary of State's office and file it yourself.
- Online: This is the fastest and easiest option (
The Waiting Game (But Not For Long!): It typically takes 2-3 business days for your DBA to be approved.
Cha-Ching! There's a small filing fee of $25. Consider it an investment in your business's coolness factor.
Pro Tip: Keep a copy of your approved DBA paperwork for your records. It's like a birth certificate for your LLC's new name!
Hold Up! Do I Need a Lawyer for This?
Nope! Adding a DBA is a pretty straightforward process. But if legal stuff makes you nervous, consulting a lawyer is never a bad idea.
Frequently Asked Questions (The Not-So-Boring Edition)
How to search for available DBAs in Oklahoma?
Use the Oklahoma Secretary of State's business entity search tool (
How long does it take to get a DBA approved in Oklahoma?
Typically 2-3 business days.
How much does it cost to file a DBA in Oklahoma?
There's a $25 filing fee.
How long does a DBA last in Oklahoma?
There's no expiration date for a DBA in Oklahoma.
How to renew a DBA in Oklahoma?
Good news! There's no need to renew a DBA in Oklahoma.