Registering a DBA (Assumed Name) in Pennsylvania
Where and how to file a DBA, trade name or assumed name in Pennsylvania, and the fee.
Short answer: Any business, including an LLC, that conducts business under a name other than its proper name must register it by filing a Registration of Fictitious Name form [DSCB:54-311] with the Department of State. The fee is $70. Pennsylvania Department of State, Fictitious Names; Fees and Payments
| DBA / assumed name | Any business, including an LLC, that conducts business under a name other than its proper name must register it by filing a Registration of Fictitious Name form [DSCB:54-311] with the Department of State. The fee is $70. If an individual is listed on the form, notice must be advertised; otherwise it is not required. A business that fails to register may not use Pennsylvania courts to enforce contracts made under the name until it registers, and a court may impose a $500 penalty. |
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| Name rules and reservation | The name must contain the term "company," "limited" or "limited liability company," or an abbreviation of one of those terms (or words of like import used in another jurisdiction). A name can be reserved for the applicant's exclusive use for 120 days. The Department of State lists Name Reservation/Registration at $70. |
Where to get help in Pennsylvania
More Pennsylvania starting an llc & small business
- What an LLC Costs in Pennsylvania
- LLC Annual Report in Pennsylvania
- All Pennsylvania starting an llc & small business rules
FAQ
How do you register a DBA in Pennsylvania?
Any business, including an LLC, that conducts business under a name other than its proper name must register it by filing a Registration of Fictitious Name form [DSCB:54-311] with the Department of State. The fee is $70. If an individual is listed on the form, notice must be advertised; otherwise it is not required. A business that fails to register may not use Pennsylvania courts to enforce contracts made under the name until it registers, and a court may impose a $500 penalty.
What are the LLC name requirements in Pennsylvania?
The name must contain the term "company," "limited" or "limited liability company," or an abbreviation of one of those terms (or words of like import used in another jurisdiction). A name can be reserved for the applicant's exclusive use for 120 days. The Department of State lists Name Reservation/Registration at $70.
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.