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DBA filing · Montana

How to File a DBA in Montana

In Montana, a DBA is registered at the state level. Register with the Secretary of State — Business Services for $20.

Check my business nameSee how to file

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 Montana, a DBA is registered at the state level.

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

How to file a DBA in Montana

  1. Confirm your name is available. Run a quick pre-check on our name-search tool, then verify it against the official Montana records so you don't pay to file a name that's taken.
  2. Complete the Montana filing. Register with the Secretary of State — Business Services. The filing fee is $20.
  3. Handle any extra steps. Assumed Business Name (ABN) filed through the SoS online portal.
  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 — Secretary of State — Business Services.

Two ways to file in Montana

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 Montana link and the details on this page to file it yourself at no charge.

Open the official Montana filing page →

Done for you — via LegalZoom

Prefer to hand it off? File through LegalZoom, our recommended service (plus the $20 state fee).

File through LegalZoom →

Rather have it done for you?

Don't want to navigate the Secretary of State — Business Services yourself? File through LegalZoom, our recommended filing service — they prepare the paperwork and submit it to the correct office (from $99 plus the $20 state fee). DBAform may earn a commission if you use our link, at no extra cost to you.

File through LegalZoom →Read the FAQ

Montana DBA — frequently asked questions

Where do I file a DBA in Montana? +

In Montana, a DBA is filed with the Secretary of State — Business Services. This is a state-level filing.

How much does a DBA cost in Montana? +

Montana's government filing fee is $20. You can file it yourself and pay only that fee, or file through LegalZoom (from $99 plus the state fee).

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

A Montana DBA must be renewed every 5 years.

Does Montana require newspaper publication for a DBA? +

No. Montana does not require you to publish a notice of your DBA in a newspaper.

Do I have to file a DBA in Montana? +

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), Montana 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 Montana? +

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:

DBA in CaliforniaDBA in TexasDBA in FloridaDBA in New YorkDBA in IllinoisDBA in GeorgiaAll 50 states →

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