What is a Fictitious Name?

A fictitious name (also known as a "doing business as" or DBA) is any name your business operates under that's different from your legal name. Registering a fictitious name under Florida Statute 865.09 informs the public about the business owner. Important: This registration does not grant exclusive rights to the name or prevent others from using it.

How to Register:

1. Choose Your Fictitious Name:

• Select the exact name you intend to use.
• Avoid business entity suffixes (e.g., Inc., LLC) unless one of the owners is a registered business entity.

2. Verify Name Availability:

• Visit the Florida Division of Corporations' website, Sunbiz.org, to check if the name is already in use.

3. Publish a Notice of Intent:

• Before filing your registration, you must publish a notice of your intent to register the fictitious name in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where your business operates.
• Contact local newspapers for publication requirements and costs.

4. File Your Registration:

• Online (Recommended):
  • Visit Sunbiz.org and follow the online filing instructions.
  • This is the fastest and most efficient method.
• By Mail:
  • Download the paper application form from Sunbiz.org.
  • Complete the form accurately and legibly.
  • Mail the completed form to the address provided on the Sunbiz website.

5. Pay the Required Fees:

• Registration Fee: $50
• Optional Fees:
  • Certified Copy: $30
  • Certificate of Status: $10

6. Renew Your Registration:

• Fictitious name registrations must be renewed every five (5) years to remain active.

Important Information:

• Mailing Address: You can use any valid mailing address. This address can be updated on Sunbiz.org free of charge.
• County of Business: Select the Florida county where your business primarily operates.
• Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN): Providing an FEIN is optional. Do not use your Social Security Number.
• Certificates:
  • A Certificate of Status verifies the registration's current status ($10).
  • A Certified Copy is a legal copy of your registration ($30).
• Owner Information:
  • You can list up to five owners on the registration.
  • For registrations with more than five owners, contact the Florida Division of Corporations at 850.245.6058.
• Signature: The registration must be signed by one owner or an authorized representative.

Legal Notice:

• Providing false information on your registration is a third-degree felony under Florida Statute 817.155. Penalties include fines and imprisonment as outlined in Florida Statutes 775.082, 775.083, and 775.084.

Where to Start:

• Visit Sunbiz.org for more detailed information and to file your registration online.