Complete Guide to Starting a Business in Florida — How Much Money Does it Cost for a DBA/Fictitious Name?
Florida is one of the most friendly states for small businesses. There are very few fees you need to pay in order to operate your company, and most are processed within a few days. The first step you should take when forming a new business is registering your fictitious name, or “Doing Business As” (DBA). A DBA registration allows you to do business under a name other than your own, but it does not register that name as a trademark.
Filing for a fictitious name costs $50 in Florida, for a processing fee. A certificate of status costs $10, but is not required. To file for a fictitious name, visit the Florida Department of State website and click “Register a Florida Fictitious Name.” If you then wish to trademark your name and logo, you will have to file separately under the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Trademarks can cost anywhere between $225 and $325, depending on how you choose to apply. You can find more information about trademark requirements here.
You must send a DBA application to to the Division of Corporations in Florida’s Department of State. Your check, or online payment will go to the Dept. of State, and should be registered in less than a week. Online registration usually takes between 2–3 business days. You can check with your local government office to see when your DBA is officially registered.
You can file a DBA yourself, but you can also choose to use an online service that will complete the paperwork for you. These services can help save you time, but cost extra to use. If this is your first time starting a business, it may benefit you to use one of these online services. However, it is also wise to learn how to do this yourself if you plan to start multiple business ventures throughout your career. It will also save you money that you may need to spend on licenses, trademarks or other business-related purchases.
Fictitious names are valid in Florida for 5 years. You must renew them by December 31st of the fifth year of registration, which costs $50 in processing fees. Your first registration should tell you at the bottom when you must renew. Keep track of your renewal dates for both a DBA and trademarks when you file for them the first time.
DBA registration is one of the least expensive steps to opening a new business in Florida. If you need help filing for one in Florida, contact the Hardee County Economic Development Council. Our staff can walk you through the process to set up your DBA today.
