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Introduction
If you want to start a business in Pennsylvania, you may need to register a fictitious business name, also known as a “doing business as” (DBA) name. A fictitious business name is a name that is different from your personal name or the name of your registered business entity. It is important to register your fictitious business name with the Pennsylvania Department of State so that you can legally use the name in your business operations.
Step 1: Choose a Fictitious Business Name
Before you can register a fictitious business name in PA, you need to choose a name that is not already in use. You can search the Pennsylvania Department of State’s online database to see if the name you want is available. Once you have chosen a name, you can move on to the next step.
Step 2: File a Fictitious Business Name Registration
To register a fictitious business name in PA, you need to file a Fictitious Name Registration form with the Pennsylvania Department of State. You can file the form online or by mail. The form requires you to provide your personal information, the name of your business, and the county where your business will be located.
Step 3: Publish a Notice of Fictitious Name
After you file your Fictitious Name Registration form, you need to publish a notice of your fictitious business name in two newspapers of general circulation in the county where your business will be located. The notice must be published once a week for three consecutive weeks. After the notice has been published, you need to file an Affidavit of Publication with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Step 4: Renew your Fictitious Business Name Registration
Your fictitious business name registration is valid for five years. After five years, you need to renew your registration with the Pennsylvania Department of State. You can renew your registration online or by mail.
FAQ
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Do I need to register a fictitious business name in PA?
Yes, if you are doing business under a name that is different from your personal name or the name of your registered business entity.
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How do I choose a fictitious business name?
You can choose any name that is not already in use. You can search the Pennsylvania Department of State’s online database to see if the name you want is available.
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How do I file a fictitious business name registration in PA?
You need to file a Fictitious Name Registration form with the Pennsylvania Department of State. You can file the form online or by mail.
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How much does it cost to register a fictitious business name in PA?
The filing fee is $70 for online filings and $75 for paper filings.
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Do I need to publish a notice of my fictitious business name?
Yes, you need to publish a notice of your fictitious business name in two newspapers of general circulation in the county where your business will be located.
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How long is a fictitious business name registration valid?
A fictitious business name registration is valid for five years.
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Can I renew my fictitious business name registration?
Yes, you can renew your registration with the Pennsylvania Department of State after five years.
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What happens if I don’t register my fictitious business name?
If you don’t register your fictitious business name, you may not be able to legally use the name in your business operations.
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Can I change my fictitious business name?
Yes, you can change your fictitious business name by filing a Fictitious Name Registration form with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
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Do I need to register my fictitious business name with the IRS?
No, you do not need to register your fictitious business name with the IRS. However, you do need to use your fictitious business name on your tax forms if you are doing business under that name.
Conclusion
If you want to start a business in Pennsylvania, registering a fictitious business name may be necessary. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can register your fictitious business name with the Pennsylvania Department of State and legally use the name in your business operations. Don’t forget to renew your registration every five years and publish a notice of your fictitious business name in two newspapers of general circulation in the county where your business will be located.
