Registering a DBA (Assumed Name) in Massachusetts
Where and how to file a DBA, trade name or assumed name in Massachusetts, and the fee.
Short answer: Under state law, any person conducting business in Massachusetts under a title other than the person's real name must file a certificate with the clerk of every city or town where it has an office, stating the names and residences of those conducting the business and the address and… M.G.L. c. 110, §5
| DBA / assumed name | Under state law, any person conducting business in Massachusetts under a title other than the person's real name must file a certificate with the clerk of every city or town where it has an office, stating the names and residences of those conducting the business and the address and title under which it is conducted, and pay the fee set by M.G.L. c. 262, §34. The certificate is signed under oath. Ask the city or town clerk for the local filing fee and how the requirement applies to an LLC. Source: M.G.L. c. 110, §5 |
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| Name rules and reservation | The name must contain the words "limited liability company" or "limited company" or the abbreviation "L.L.C.," "L.C.," "LLC" or "LC." It may contain the name of a member or manager, and may not be the same as, or deceptively similar to, the name of any corporation, limited partnership or LLC organized, reserved or registered in Massachusetts without that entity's written consent. A name can be reserved by filing an application with the state secretary; the reservation lasts 60 days and may be extended for another 60 days on written request. Source: M.G.L. c. 156C, §§3-4 |
Where to get help in Massachusetts
More Massachusetts starting an llc & small business
- What an LLC Costs in Massachusetts
- LLC Annual Report in Massachusetts
- All Massachusetts starting an llc & small business rules
FAQ
How do you register a DBA in Massachusetts?
Under state law, any person conducting business in Massachusetts under a title other than the person's real name must file a certificate with the clerk of every city or town where it has an office, stating the names and residences of those conducting the business and the address and title under which it is conducted, and pay the fee set by M.G.L. c. 262, §34. The certificate is signed under oath.
What are the LLC name requirements in Massachusetts?
The name must contain the words "limited liability company" or "limited company" or the abbreviation "L.L.C.," "L.C.," "LLC" or "LC." It may contain the name of a member or manager, and may not be the same as, or deceptively similar to, the name of any corporation, limited partnership or LLC organized, reserved or registered in Massachusetts without that entity's written consent. A name can be reserved by filing an application with the state secretary; the reservation lasts 60 days and may be extended for another 60 days on written request.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.