Operating under a business name in California? Here is how the fictitious business name process works.

Key takeaways:

• File a Fictitious Business Name Statement with the county clerk of your principal place of business.
• Publish once a week for four successive weeks and file an affidavit of publication.
• A statement generally expires five years after filing and on most changes after 40 days.
• Fees vary by county; Sacramento County lists $51.15 for the first name.

1. The quick answer

Quick answer: In California, a “DBA” is a Fictitious Business Name Statement filed with the county clerk of the county where your principal place of business is. Per a Sacramento County form, the statement must then be published in a newspaper of general circulation in that county once a week for four successive weeks, and an affidavit of publication filed with the county clerk. A statement generally expires five years after filing. Fees and details vary by county, so confirm with yours.

2. Step by step

Per the Sacramento County form, individuals, partnerships, LLCs, corporations, trusts, and other entities file. The statement is signed by the individual, a general partner, a trustee, or an officer or manager; an agent’s signature is not accepted. In-person filers show valid photo ID, and mailed filings include a stamped self-addressed envelope for endorsed copies.

3. Fees, changes, and renewal

Sacramento County lists $51.15 for the first business name and owner and $8.71 for each additional name or owner. Other counties set their own fees. A statement also expires 40 days after most changes in the facts it contains (a change in an individual’s residence address is an exception), or when you file a statement of abandonment. Per the form, a new statement must be filed before expiration; if refiled within 40 days of expiration it does not require republication unless the information has changed.

Knowingly filing or publishing a false statement is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, according to the form.

4. If you form an LLC

A DBA is not an entity. If your business is an LLC and you operate under a different name, you may still need a fictitious business name statement. See California LLC annual tax and fee and trademark and business name checks before choosing a name.

5. Seven checks

Where DoubleCheck fits

DoubleCheck is built for businesses that start legal work with AI. Bring your question or draft, use an AI-first workflow to understand and verify it, and when professional advice is warranted, you can connect with an independent attorney. Attorneys on DoubleCheck are independent professionals; an attorney-client relationship forms only if an attorney accepts your engagement.

Sources: Sacramento County: Fictitious Business Name Statement form.

FAQ

What is a DBA in California?

A Fictitious Business Name Statement filed with the county clerk when you do business under a name other than your own legal name.

Do I have to publish my DBA in California?

Per the Sacramento County form, yes: once a week for four successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation, then file an affidavit.

How long does a California DBA last?

Generally five years after filing, and it expires 40 days after most changes in the facts it contains.

How much does a California DBA cost?

It varies by county. Sacramento County lists $51.15 for the first name and owner.

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General information only. This article is not legal, tax, investment, or accounting advice.