DBA vs Legal Entity Name: What’s the Difference?
Why This Matters in 2025
In 2025, understanding the difference between your legal business name and your DBA is critical to staying compliant and building trust with customers.
Whether you’re starting a new LLC, launching an online brand, or expanding into new markets, understanding how DBAs and legal names work helps you stay compliant, open business bank accounts, and avoid branding conflicts.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what’s what.
What Is a Legal Entity Name?
Your legal entity name is the official name of your business, as registered with your Secretary of State.
It appears on:
- Your LLC or corporation formation documents
- Contracts and tax forms
- Business licenses and permits
This is one half of the DBA vs legal name puzzle every business owner should understand
Example: If you form “Smith Holdings, LLC,” that’s your legal entity name — even if you never use it in your marketing.
Clarification: Your legal name must be unique in your state and follow state naming rules (e.g., include “LLC” or “Inc.” as required).
What Is a DBA (Doing Business As)?
A DBA, or “Doing Business As,” is any name your business operates under that isn’t your legal name.
Common reasons to use a DBA:
- You want a more marketable or brandable name
- You’re launching multiple business lines
- You don’t want to use your personal name for a sole proprietorship
Example: “Smith Holdings, LLC” doing business as “Fresh & Local Produce.”
Registration Tip: You must register your DBA with your state or county before using it publicly. In some states, this includes publishing a notice in a local newspaper.
Why the Difference Matters
Opening a Business Bank Account
Banks require proof of DBA registration if the account name doesn’t match your legal entity name.
Branding & Marketing
A DBA lets you promote your business with a public-friendly name while maintaining your legal protections.
Compliance
Using an unregistered DBA may violate state law and result in penalties or contract disputes.
Legal Note: A DBA does not create a new legal entity or protect your personal assets — it’s just a name.
Conclusion: Get It Right from the Start
Your legal business name and your brand name can absolutely be different — just make sure you’ve registered everything properly. When in doubt about your DBA vs legal name requirements, get legal help early.
👉 Need help filing a DBA or forming your LLC?
Book a free 15-minute strategy call to get legal guidance tailored to your business.
Last Updated: August 2025