Registering a Connecticut DBA, known as a fictitious name, is a simple process that you complete with the town or city where you do business.Learn How to File a Connecticut DBA yourself in two simple steps:
Fast-Track Your DBA Registration
You can hire a professional service such as LegalZoom to file your DBA for you. Their packages start at $99 (plus state fees).
Get StartedHow to Set up a DBA in Connecticut
Step 1: Start With a Connecticut DBA Name Search
The first step to filing a DBA in Connecticut is choosing the name and making sure it’s available. Your name can be similar to other business names, but it’s still a good practice to create a unique name.
Before you file your DBA, you will be required to search your town’s records to make sure your exact name isn’t already taken. You will also need to consider any naming rules. You can also search for the state’s business name online database.
In Connecticut, your trade name should not include:
- Any business entity suffix, such as LLC, Incorporated, Corp., etc unless the business is actually an LLC, corporation, etc.
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.
Step 2: File Your Connecticut DBA in the Town Where you Do Business
In Connecticut, you register your fictitious business name with the town where your company does business.
DBA regulations are managed by the state of Connecticut which means the steps for getting a DBA are very similar from town to town.
We will give you step-by-step directions to get a City of Stamford DBA. If you need to file in a different town, you’ll need to contact the correct town clerk for instructions.
These links will lead you to the fictitious business name websites for some of the more populated cities:
- Bridgeport City Clerk
- Hartford City Clerk
- Stamford City Clerk, Full Instructions Below
You can find the complete list of town contact information on the Connecticut Town Clerks Association website.
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.
How to File a City of Stamford DBA
At this point, you should’ve already chosen a name for your business and completed the name searches in Step 1 above. Stamford requires that you also check their trade name records before you start the DBA filing process.
Forms
Submit Your Trade Name Registration
Walk-In or Mail
City of Stamford Town Clerk
888 Washington Boulevard
Stamford, CT 06901
Fees
- $10 Filing Fee (includes one certified copy)
Manage Your City of Stamford DBA
DBA Questions
Call (203) 977-4054 for general questions about Stamford trade names.
Renew Your DBA
You do not need to renew your Connecticut trade name.
Change Your DBA
You can make amendments to your trade name registration by filling out the same form with the updated information and checking the box next to “amend.”
Withdraw Your DBA
You can cancel your trade name by filling out the same registration form and checking the box next to “cancel.”
Need Help Filing Your Connecticut DBA?
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Start NowConnecticut DBA FAQ
Can I file a Connecticut DBA online?
No, you must submit the registration form in-person or by mail.
How do I withdraw my Connecticut DBA?
You can cancel your trade name by filling out the same registration form and checking the box next to “cancel.”
How can I insure my Connecticut 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 do I change my DBA in Connecticut?
You can make amendments to your trade name registration by filling out the same form with the updated information and checking the box next to “amend.”
How often should I renew my Connecticut DBA?
Your trade name does not need to be renewed.
When is a DBA required in Connecticut?
A DBA is required whenever a business is operating under a name other than its legal name.
How do I transfer my DBA in Connecticut?
Most transfers can be completed by filing an amendment to change the owner’s name.
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.
Is my DBA protected from being used in other places?
There are some state-level laws that prevent DBAs that are too similar to existing ones from being used, but this varies from state to state. It is possible to trademark a DBA, which would offer stronger protection across state lines.