| Features | Rating & Prices | |
|---|---|---|
 | #1 Most Recommended LegalZoom performs a name search of your DBA, and then completes and files your application for you. All while providing you with advice along the way! |  Click here to see prices |
Alabama – DBA
File a Alabama DBA
A DBA (doing business as), allows an individual or business to conduct operations under a fictitious name without having to create a completely new entity. Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding DBAs.
For the sole proprietor doing business under a name other than their personal name, Alabama does not require filing of that fictitious name. The same is true for a general partnership; no state filing is required.
A Corporation, LLC, LLP or limited partnership using another name other than the parent company name must file to reserve the DBA name with the secretary of state. For example, Acme Restaurant Inc. might have 3 restaurants open under separate names Acme A Diner, Acme B Diner and Acme C Diner. Each individual restaurant must be filed as a DBA under the parent corporation, Acme Restaurant Inc. Hence Acme Inc will have to file 3 separate DBA reservations.
Special Cases
Alabama has one special requirement when filing a DBA.
Those DBAs choosing to use the words “engineer” or “engineering” in their name have special state requirements. A licensed engineer must be on the company’s staff and licensed by the Alabama Engineers & Land Surveyors Board. If a licensed engineer is not on staff the filing company cannot use “engineer” or “engineering” in its DBA name.
Filing Procedures
A DBA must be in use prior to reservation. A DBA cannot be reserved in anticipation of a future business.
To reserve the name, a DBA will cost the filing business $10.00.
There are two ways to reserve a DBA name:
- Call the Corporations Call Center for instructions at 334-242-5324
- Or download a name reservation form, fill it out, and fax to 334-240-3138 or mail to
Alabama Secretary of State
State Capitol Corporations Div.
PO Box 5616
Montgomery, AL 36103-5616
Filing Form
The following information must be included in the reservation form:
- The date the DBA was first used in any state.
- The date the DBA was first used in the state of Alabama.
- Statement of ownership claiming whom has the right to use that DBA name.
- Description of the business.
- How the name is used in relation to the parent company.
- If the company is federally registered, a copy of the Federal Registration form must be included.
State Policy
The DBA must be renewed every 10 years. There will be an additional fee to renew. The Secretary of State will send a notice to renew at the last registered address so be sure any change of address is filed with the state. A renewal must confirm the DBA is still being used in Alabama. Failure to renew will allow the DBA to be reserved by another company.
In Partnership with:
| Features | Submission Time | Turnaround | Rating & Prices | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Most Recommended LegalZoom performs a name search of your DBA, and then completes and files your application for you. All while providing you with advice along the way! | Click here to see prices |