Please move this if it is not in the right area


Just wondering how many of you are sole proprietors and have a business name/website different then your surname? If so, did you file a dba (doing business as)

i am tryign to weed through all this information

Im not sure, but you can file for a ficticious name. I got an LLC. I'm sure other will have better info. Also, check out your state's business development site - that should give you some guidance.

Generally, if you're going to use a name other than your own, you need to file a DBA either with your state, city, or county. In Michigan, I had to file with the county clerk.

This allows you to open a checking account in the business name, which allows you to accept checks in the business name.

You can also get an EIN in the business name. While you may not have employees, having an EIN allows you to use that for a Tax-ID instead of giving your Social Security Number to clients who may need it for tax purposes.

thanks everyone i checked with a lawyer and accoutant so i will now work on my name. since this is the only thing holding me back on getting my web site up and going

In Florida, you file for a ficticious name if it is different then your name.

Just joined this great community... wanted to add a little input on the DBA (doing business as) for a sole proprietor.

I've had a DBA in the Detroit metro area for 20 years, in my work as a computer instructor. What bothers me greatly is that my county publishes an easily accessible and searchable online directory of all DBA's issued. If you just fill it out with your home address as the place of business, there is your name and address for anyone to find. The last time I filed, I went back to a rented mailbox, and used that as the business address, and now at least that is the address published online...

BUT my legal eagle name is still there for all the world to see.. in my case this poses particular concern because through marriage I have a very unique last name. If someone searches for my real name not even specifying a state, I am the only one found as no one else in the country has my name. And then for a mere $20, there is a mountain of personal data beyond home phone and address readily available to anyone.

Therefore I am looking into the LLC route - it will protect against my getting sued personally for such things as 'errors and omissions' (I actually had to provide $1 million of insurance coverage for this item once when working for a large local company); and will provide a layer of identity protection.

Hope this is helpful...

Hi, I have a business name and I am the sole owner. My business name is December M. Raynes Virtual Assisting. I do all of my writing under that name. Now I am going to be taking my VA business to the next level and do more administrative work so I'm currently building my website and working on getting the ball rolling. I am wondering since I will be doing more other than just ghostwriting should I move to an LLC or something of that nature to protect myself.