You’ve got your name, your domain, maybe even a logo you’re proud of. But now you’re wondering—do you need a DBA? A business license? Or is that only for food trucks and Etsy shops?
DBA vs. LLC: What’s the Difference?
A DBA (Doing Business As) is a way to operate under a different name than your legal one.
Example: Jane Smith forms “Smith Enterprises LLC” but markets as “Glow Up Coaching.” She needs to file a DBA for that name.
You Might Need a DBA If:
- You’re using a different name than your LLC or personal name
- Your bank requires it to open an account in that name
- You’re building a brand and don’t want your legal name on everything
Do You Need a Business License?
That depends. Every state, and sometimes even cities or counties, have different requirements.
- Some online businesses don’t need one.
- Others (like coaches, consultants, marketers, and product sellers) often do.
- Some places require a home-based business permit—even if you’re just working from your laptop.
Pro Tip:
Check your state and local rules before launching. Ignoring them can lead to fines or compliance issues.
Bottom Line
If your business name doesn’t match your legal structure, or you haven’t checked license requirements, you may be missing a key step. The good news? It’s a simple fix.
Want to make sure you’re covered?
We’ll walk you through what you need—and skip what you don’t.
Schedule a call and let’s handle the details.