How to File a DBA in Delaware

A DBA (Doing Business As) lets you operate a business under a name different from your legal name. In Delaware, this filing is officially called a DBA registration.

What Is A DBA?

When you start a business as a sole proprietor or partnership, your business legally operates under your personal name (or the names of all partners). A DBA filing registers an alternate business name with the state, allowing you to:

• Operate under a professional business name
• Open a business bank account in your business name
• Accept payments under your business name
• Build brand recognition separate from your personal name

If you form an LLC or corporation and want to operate under a different name than your entity's registered name, you also need a DBA filing.

Where to File in Delaware

In Delaware, DBA filings are handled at the state level through the Delaware Secretary of State. Unlike states that require county-level filing, you submit your DBA application directly to the state.

Step-by-Step: Filing Your Delaware DBA

1. Choose your business name — Pick a name that isn't already in use. Search the Delaware Secretary of State database to check availability.
2. Prepare your DBA application — You'll need your legal name, business name, business address, and type of business.
3. Submit to the Delaware Secretary of State — File your DBA application with the state through Delaware Secretary of State.
4. Pay the filing fee — The state filing fee varies. Our service fee is $99.
5. Receive your certificate — Once approved, you'll receive a certificate confirming your DBA registration.
6. Open a business bank account — Use your DBA certificate to open a bank account under your business name.

Costs

Our service fee is $99. This covers preparation and filing of your DBA paperwork with the Delaware Secretary of State. The state filing fee is paid separately.

Timeline

Most DBA filings in Delaware are processed within 5-10 business days after submission to the Delaware Secretary of State. Processing times can vary depending on state processing volumes.

What You Need

• Your full legal name (individual or entity name)
• The business name you want to register
• Business address in Delaware
• Type of business (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation)
• Filing fee payment

After You File

Once your DBA is approved, keep your certificate in a safe place. You'll need it to:

• Open a business bank account
• Apply for business licenses and permits
• Enter into contracts under your business name
• Build credit under your business name

Delaware DBA registrations typically need to be renewed periodically. See our renewal guide for details on keeping your filing current.

File Your Delaware DBA — $99