How To Register A Small Business Name In California

To register a gp at the state level a statement of partnership authority form gp 1 must be filed with the california secretary of state s office.

How to register a small business name in california. To register the name of a partnership llc or corporation. Assuming you ve already worked out your business idea how you re going to fund your company and have at least done a simple business plan these are the steps for starting a business in california. Decide on a business structure. A doing business as dba also known as a fictitious business name or assumed business name is a business name different than your personal name the names of your partners or the name you officially registered for your limited liability company llc or corporation. To register your dba in california search and reserve a name online with the secretary of state.

If you would like help deciding on a location for your business contact the california business investment services unit of the governor s office of economic development go biz. Some counties let you submit online while others require hard copy. Pick a business name. Registering a gp at the state level is optional. Check existing names and reserve a name not already in use by mail or in person with the secretary of state.

Generally all businesses that wish to conduct business in california need to register and form their legal entity with the california secretary of state s office file appropriate taxes register as an employer and obtain business licenses and other permits from appropriate cities or counties. Make sure the name and spelling you want are available before you actually register. Generally all businesses that wish to conduct business in california need to register and form their legal entity with the california secretary of state s office file appropriate taxes register as an employer and obtain business licenses and other permits from appropriate cities or counties. Register your business to make it a distinct legal entity. Small business administration website to find a tutorial on how to create a business plan.

Also keep in mind that the name you choose cannot be too close to another company already doing business in california. File a fictitious name statement with your county clerk s office if applicable. In many states like california business owners must use a dba if they plan on operating their own business using a. To register a business name in california visit your county s website for instructions on submitting a fictitious business name statement.