A “DBA” (Doing Business As)—also called a fictitious business name, assumed name, or trade name—lets you operate under a name that’s different from your legal name (for sole proprietors and partnerships) or your company’s registered name (for LLCs and corporations). It’s a branding tool and a banking essential: most banks ask for your DBA certificate to open an account in the business name.
A DBA does not create a separate legal entity and does not provide liability protection. It’s simply a name registration. Because each state (and sometimes counties or cities) has its own forms, fees, and quirks—like possible newspaper publication or renewals—many owners prefer using a filing service to avoid mistakes and delays.
What we evaluated: state coverage, handling of local quirks, turnaround options, price transparency, name search help, renewal reminders, support quality, and overall ease of use.
5 Best DBA Filing Services — Feature & Pricing Snapshot
| Provider | Service Fee* (excl. gov. fees) |
|---|---|
| Northwest Registered Agent Recommended Visit Northwest |
$125 + state/county fees |
| Bizee (formerly Incfile) | Typically ~$99 + state/county fees |
| LegalZoom | $99 (Standard) or $119 (Premium) + fees |
| ZenBusiness | $95 + state/county fees |
| Swyft Filings | From $99 + fees |
*Service fees shown are provider charges and do not include government/county publication fees. Pricing can change; confirm current rates on each provider’s site.
How We Chose the Best DBA Filing Services
- State & local coverage: Ability to handle state, county, or city filings and special steps like publication or notarization.
- Turnaround speed: Clear timelines with standard and expedited options.
- Name checks: Tools and guidance to reduce the odds of rejection.
- Compliance support: Publication assistance (where required), proof of filing/certificates, and renewal reminders.
- User experience: Clean flow, status tracking, document storage, and clear next steps (banking, tax updates).
- Pricing clarity: Transparent base fees and add-ons, no surprise upsells.
- Customer support: Knowledgeable help by phone/chat/email with plain-English answers.
The 5 Best DBA Filing Services
1) Northwest Registered Agent — Best Overall for Compliance & Privacy
Why it stands out: Northwest takes a compliance-first, no-nonsense approach. Their materials are written in plain English, and their support reps (“Corporate Guides®”) actually explain the why—not just the what. They also emphasize privacy practices and avoid selling your data.
Highlights
- Step-by-step guidance for state, county, or city filings
- Help with publication requirements where applicable
- Digital copies and stored documents in a secure dashboard
- Renewal reminders and amendment/cancellation help
- Responsive, knowledgeable U.S.-based support
Best for: First-time filers and anyone who wants hand-holding with minimal upsells.
2) Bizee (formerly Incfile) — Best Budget-Friendly Bundles
Why it stands out: Bizee focuses on affordability and a streamlined online flow. If you’re already using them for an LLC or corporation, adding a DBA is straightforward in the same dashboard.
Highlights
- Guided order form and status tracking
- Name search help and digital copies
- Optional add-ons (EIN, business banking introductions, compliance alerts)
- Clear progress steps from start to certificate
Best for: Cost-conscious founders who want a quick, simple filing experience.
3) LegalZoom — Best for Brand Recognition & Extensive Resources
Why it stands out: LegalZoom has broad coverage and a vast library of DIY content. If you prefer a familiar brand and lots of how-to materials, it’s a comfortable choice.
Highlights
- Step-by-step wizard with explanations for each state
- Handling of publication where required
- Options for amendments, cancellations, and certified copies
- Large support team and extended hours
Best for: Owners who value a well-known provider and robust support options.
4) ZenBusiness — Best All-in-One Platform Experience
Why it stands out: ZenBusiness offers modern UX and a clean dashboard that can house multiple services—DBA, registered agent, annual compliance reminders, domain/website, and more.
Highlights
- Easy name search guidance and filing status tracking
- Document vault and renewal reminders
- Option to bundle with other business tools (domain, web, RA)
- Helpful learning resources inside the portal
Best for: Entrepreneurs who want to manage multiple business tasks in one place.
5) Swyft Filings — Best for Speed & Helpful Support
Why it stands out: Swyft Filings is known for fast, straightforward order flows and responsive support, with extra attention paid to each state’s or county’s nuances.
Highlights
- Preparation and filing of DBA paperwork with clear timelines
- Assistance with publication and certified copies (where applicable)
- Renewal alerts and simple amendment/cancellation options
- Friendly support that explains local requirements
Best for: Owners who want quick turnarounds and pragmatic guidance.
Comparison Snapshot (at a glance)
- Strongest compliance hand-holding: Northwest Registered Agent
- Lowest-friction, budget-friendly flow: Bizee
- Most recognizable brand + content depth: LegalZoom
- Modern all-in-one dashboard: ZenBusiness
- Speedy processing & clear communication: Swyft Filings
DBA vs. LLC vs. Trademark (Quick Guide)
- DBA: Registers a business name for use in commerce. No liability shield; not a separate entity.
- LLC/Corporation: Creates a separate legal entity with liability protection and formal compliance duties.
- Trademark: Protects brand names/logos at state or federal level; separate from DBA and entity filings.
Tip: It’s common to form an LLC and then file one or more DBAs under that LLC for different product lines.
State & Local Considerations
- Where to file: Some jurisdictions require DBA filings at the state, others at the county or city level (or a combination).
- Publication: A few jurisdictions require publishing a notice in a newspaper for a set number of weeks.
- Renewals: Terms vary (e.g., every 1–10 years). Calendar your renewal date as soon as you’re approved.
- Name rules: Many places restrict certain words (e.g., “bank,” “insurance,” “university”) or misleading entity suffixes.
Costs & Timelines: What to Expect
- Government fees: Vary widely by state/county/city.
- Processing times: Standard filings can take days to weeks; many providers offer expedited options.
- Extras you might need: Certified copies, publication fees, notarization, amendments, or cancellations.
Step-by-Step: How to File a DBA
- Search the name in your jurisdiction and check for federal/state trademarks to avoid conflicts.
- Identify the correct office (state/county/city) and verify the current requirements.
- Prepare the forms (and any publication notices, if required).
- File and pay fees; request certified copies if you’ll need them for banking.
- Receive your DBA certificate and store it safely (digital + physical).
- Update records: bank accounts, payment processors, vendor accounts, payroll/tax registrations.
- Set reminders for renewals and any ongoing publication/notice obligations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming a DBA equals liability protection (it doesn’t).
- Skipping required publication or not requesting proof of publication.
- Forgetting renewals or letting the name lapse.
- Using a name that conflicts with an existing business or trademark.
- Not updating banks, processors, and tax agencies after approval.
FAQs
Do I need a DBA if I already have an LLC?
Only if you want to operate under a different brand name than your LLC’s legal name.
Can one company have multiple DBAs?
Yes. Many LLCs and corporations register multiple DBAs for separate product lines.
Can I use the same DBA in multiple states?
You typically need to file the DBA in each state (and sometimes county/city) where you’ll operate.
Do I need an EIN for a DBA?
A DBA itself doesn’t require an EIN, but your business might. Banks often require an EIN to open accounts.
How long does a DBA last?
It depends on your jurisdiction; renewals are common. Always set calendar reminders.
Final Thoughts
Picking the right DBA filing service comes down to support needs and local requirements.
- Choose Northwest Registered Agent if you want careful compliance help and strong privacy.
- Pick Bizee for a wallet-friendly, streamlined process.
- Select LegalZoom if you prefer a big brand with extensive resources.
- Go with ZenBusiness for a modern dashboard that centralizes your ongoing business tasks.
- Try Swyft Filings when speed and clear communication are top priorities.
This article is for general educational purposes and isn’t legal or tax advice. Always verify current requirements in your jurisdiction before filing.