All Laws Decoded

Registering a DBA (Assumed Name) in Tennessee

Where and how to file a DBA, trade name or assumed name in Tennessee, and the fee.

Short answer: Tennessee does not recognize 'DBAs' or fictitious names; instead an entity registers an assumed name with the Secretary of State. An Application for Registration of Assumed Name (SS-4402) costs $20. Tennessee Secretary of State, Business FAQs; Business Forms and Fees

DBA / assumed nameTennessee does not recognize 'DBAs' or fictitious names; instead an entity registers an assumed name with the Secretary of State. An Application for Registration of Assumed Name (SS-4402) costs $20. The assumed name is good for 5 years and can be renewed ($20).
Name rules and reservationEach LLC name must contain the words "Limited Liability Company" or the abbreviation "LLC" or "L.L.C." Names containing "bank," "banks," "banking," "credit union" or "trust" need written approval from the Department of Financial Institutions, and "insurance company" needs approval from the Department of Commerce & Insurance. Using a name not distinguishable from an existing one requires a Written Consent for Use of Indistinguishable Name ($20). An Application for Name Reservation (SS-9425) costs $20.
The length of a name reservation was not confirmed from an official page.

Where to get help in Tennessee

More Tennessee starting an llc & small business

FAQ

How do you register a DBA in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not recognize 'DBAs' or fictitious names; instead an entity registers an assumed name with the Secretary of State. An Application for Registration of Assumed Name (SS-4402) costs $20. The assumed name is good for 5 years and can be renewed ($20).
What are the LLC name requirements in Tennessee?
Each LLC name must contain the words "Limited Liability Company" or the abbreviation "LLC" or "L.L.C." Names containing "bank," "banks," "banking," "credit union" or "trust" need written approval from the Department of Financial Institutions, and "insurance company" needs approval from the Department of Commerce & Insurance. Using a name not distinguishable from an existing one requires a Written Consent for Use of Indistinguishable Name ($20). An Application for Name Reservation (SS-9425) costs $20.

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.