DBA filing · Florida

How to File a DBA in Florida

In Florida, a DBA is registered at the state level. Register with the Division of Corporations (Sunbiz) for $50.

A DBA — short for “doing business as,” also called a fictitious business name, assumed name, or trade name — lets you legally operate under a name that isn't your own legal name or your company's exact registered name. In Florida, a DBA is registered at the state level.

Here's exactly where and how to register your DBA in Florida — and what it costs — so your filing is accepted the first time.

How to file a DBA in Florida

  1. Confirm your name is available. Run a quick pre-check on our name-search tool, then verify it against the official Florida records so you don't pay to file a name that's taken.
  2. Complete the Florida filing. Register with the Division of Corporations (Sunbiz). The filing fee is $50.
  3. Handle any extra steps. Advertise the name once in a county newspaper before filing; expires Dec 31 of year 5.
  4. Keep it active. Your registration lasts 5 yrs before it needs renewing — we'll remind you before it lapses.
Where it's filed: State filing — Division of Corporations (Sunbiz).

Two ways to file in Florida

DBAform is a resource either way — do it yourself with the official link, or let us handle it.

Do it yourself — free

Use the official Florida link and the details on this page to file it yourself at no charge.

Open the official Florida filing page →

Done for you — via LegalZoom

Prefer to hand it off? File through LegalZoom, our recommended service (plus the $50 state fee).

File through LegalZoom →

Rather have it done for you?

Don't want to navigate the Division of Corporations (Sunbiz) yourself? File through LegalZoom, our recommended filing service — they prepare the paperwork and submit it to the correct office (from $99 plus the $50 state fee). DBAform may earn a commission if you use our link, at no extra cost to you.

Florida DBA — frequently asked questions

Where do I file a DBA in Florida? +

In Florida, a DBA is filed with the Division of Corporations (Sunbiz). This is a state-level filing.

How much does a DBA cost in Florida? +

Florida's government filing fee is $50. You can file it yourself and pay only that fee, or file through LegalZoom (from $99 plus the state fee).

Does a DBA in Florida expire or need to be renewed? +

A Florida DBA must be renewed every 5 years.

Does Florida require newspaper publication for a DBA? +

Yes. Advertise the name once in a county newspaper before filing; expires Dec 31 of year 5.

Do I have to file a DBA in Florida? +

If you operate under any name other than your own legal name (as a sole proprietor) or your business's exact registered name (as an LLC or corporation), Florida requires you to register it. If you use only your legal name, you generally don't need one.

Is a DBA the same as an LLC in Florida? +

No. A DBA is only a registered trade name -- it doesn't create a legal entity or protect your personal assets. An LLC does both. Many owners form an LLC and then file a DBA under it.

Other states

Filing in more than one state, or not sure this is the right one? Browse every jurisdiction or jump to a popular state:

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