Trade Names and Trademarks
A trade name is the official name a company uses for business, different from a trademark which legally protects products. Trademarks secure names, while trade names provide notice of name usage.
Doing Business As (DBA)
States register trade names for taxes and company tracking. A DBA operates under a different name while retaining the legal name. DBAs do not offer exclusive use rights or legal protections like LLCs.
Setting Up a DBA in Ohio
A DBA in Ohio involves choosing a business name, filing with the Secretary of State, obtaining licenses, permits, zoning clearance, and an Employer ID Number. Only one DBA name can be filed per application.
Registered Names vs. Fictitious Names
A registered name is the business’s legal name registered with the state, while a fictitious name is any other name assumed for business usage.
DBAs and LLCs
A DBA allows a business to operate under a different name, while an LLC provides legal protections. LLCs can register DBAs alongside their official LLC name.