Filing a Montana DBA (doing business as), also known as an assumed name, is a simple process that you complete with the Secretary of State.
Learn How to Get a DBA in Montana yourself in two simple steps:
You can hire a professional service such as LegalZoom to file your DBA for you. Their packages start at $99 (plus state fees).
How to Set up a DBA in Montana
Step 1: Start With a Montana DBA Name Search
If you haven't already, head over to the Montana Secretary of State's website to make sure your assumed name isn't taken by another registered Montana business. Your name can be similar to other business names, but it’s still a good practice to create a unique name.
TIP: Our business name generator tool is a great resource for entrepreneurs who are still working to create the perfect business name or website address. You can also use our free logo generator tool to make a logo yourself! No design experience necessary!
In Montana, your assumed name should not include:
- Any business entity suffix, such as LLC, Incorporated, Corp., etc unless the business is actually an LLC, corporation, or etc.
- Any terms given to financial institutions, including: "bank," "banc," "banco," 'banque," "banker,``''trust company," "savings and loan association," "savings bank," "credit union" or other similar words.
Next, a quick search on the U.S. Trademark Electronic Search System will tell you whether someone else has already trademarked your name.
Now would be the perfect time to make sure there’s a web domain available for your DBA as well.
After registering a domain name for your DBA, consider using a business phone service to improve customer satisfaction and further establish credibility. Our top pick is Nextiva because of its affordable pricing and useful features. Start calling with Nextiva.
Step 2: Register Your Montana DBA
In Montana, you register your DBA with the Montana Secretary of State on its Online Business Services.
The application will ask for your new DBA name and information about your business, such as:
- Business description
- Applicant type (LLC, sole proprietorship, corporation, etc.)
- Mailing address and phone number
Important Tip:
A DBA does not offer any protection for your personal assets in the event that your business is sued. For more information on setting up a limited liability company, visit our How to Form an LLC page and select your state.
Submit Your Assumed Business Name Registration
You must complete your assumed name registration online at the Montana Secretary of State’s Online Business Services. Registration is required to access the site.
Fees
- $20 Registration Fee
Manage Your Montana DBA
DBA Questions
Call the Montana Secretary of State: 406-444-2034
Renew Your DBA with the State
Your Montana DBA should be renewed every five years. The fee is $20, and you complete the renewal process online.
Change Your DBA
You can amend your assumed name registration online. The fee is $20.
Withdraw Your DBA
You can cancel your Montana assumed name online. There is no cancellation fee.
Need Help Filing Your Montana DBA?
Have a Professional Service File Your Montana DBA For You
A professional service will handle filing your DBA on your behalf, allowing you to focus on the other needs of your new business.
We recommend using LegalZoom ($99 + state fee) for a personalized DBA service.
FAQ DBA Montana
Can I file a DBA online in Montana?
Yes, you must file online at the Montana Secretary of State’s Online Business Services.
How do I change my DBA in Montana?
You can amend your assumed name registration online. The fee is $20.
How can I insure my Montana DBA?
DBAs don’t require insurance because DBAs aren't a business entity. However, the business entity that the DBA is under will need protection from losses that can happen naturally in the course of business, such as property damage or lawsuits.
We recommend Tivly because they provide coverage for a large variety of businesses. Get a free quote from Tivly or call 855-965-3168 to learn more.
How can I withdraw my DBA?
You can cancel your assumed name online. There is no cancellation fee.
How often should I renew my Montana DBA?
You need to renew your Montana assumed name every five years. The filing fee is $20, and you complete the renewal online.
When is a DBA required in Montana?
A DBA is required whenever a business is operating under a name other than its legal name.
How do I transfer my DBA in Montana?
You can transfer your assumed name online.
Is my Montana DBA protected from being used in other places?
Montana will not register an assumed name that is not distinguishable from another registered name. It is possible to create a federal trademark for a DBA, which would offer stronger protection across state lines.
How many DBAs can I have?
You can have as many DBAs as you can afford to create and are able to keep track of. However, more isn’t necessarily better. Each one will come with additional incremental expense and paperwork, so you will want to make sure you have a good reason for each one you have.
Can a DBA get an EIN or Tax ID?
DBAs aren’t required to have a separate EIN because DBAs aren’t a business entity. The business entity that the DBA is under would have an EIN if an EIN is required.
To learn more about EINs and when you would need one for your business, read What is An EIN from our friends at TRUiC.
Can a DBA become an LLC?
Your DBA is just a name. A DBA is often confused with a sole proprietorship. If you mean “can my sole proprietorship become an LLC?” then the answer is “Yes. Absolutely.”
To learn how to form an LLC, visit our Form an LLC state guides.
Can a DBA have "Inc." in the name?
A DBA can only have "Inc." in the name if the business entity the DBA is attached to is a corporation.
How do I set up a DBA for a rental property?
It’s always best to consult an attorney. Usually, the best option is to form an LLC to protect your personal assets in the event of an issue with the rental property. Holding the rental property in your name and with a DBA will not afford you any protection.