Ohio

Ohio DBA Registration

Complete 2026 guide to filing a DBA (doing business as / fictitious name) in Ohio — fees, process, publication requirements, and how it complements your LLC.

Filing fee

$39

Filing level

State level (Ohio Secretary of State)

Renewal

Every 5 years

Should You File a DBA in Ohio?

DBA is a good fit if...

• You operate sub-brands under your main LLC
• You want to use a catchier name than your LLC's legal name
• You're launching a new product line
• You're a sole prop who wants a business-sounding name

DBA is NOT enough if...

• You need liability protection (form an LLC)
• You want separate tax treatment for different activities
• You want to raise capital from investors
• You want to build business credit separately

FAQ

What's the difference between a DBA and an LLC in Ohio?

A DBA (doing business as) is a fictitious name registration — it lets you legally operate under a different name than your legal entity. It provides NO liability protection. An LLC is a legal entity that DOES provide liability protection. You can have both: LLC as the legal entity + DBA(s) for sub-brands or product lines.

How much does it cost to file a DBA in Ohio?

Ohio charges $39. Filed at the State level (Ohio Secretary of State). Renewal: Every 5 years.

Do I need a DBA if I already have an LLC in Ohio?

Only if you want to operate under a name different from your LLC's legal name. Example: "Smith Ventures LLC" operating as "Smith Coffee Co." needs a DBA. If you use the LLC's exact legal name, no DBA needed.

How do I file a DBA in Ohio?

(1) Choose your DBA name (unique, not misleading). (2) Search existing Ohio DBAs to avoid conflicts. (3) File the Fictitious Name / Assumed Name form with State level (Ohio Secretary of State). (4) Pay $39 filing fee. (5) Receive your DBA certificate.

Do I need to publish notice when filing a DBA in Ohio?

Ohio does not require newspaper publication for DBAs. File the registration form + pay fee, done.

Can I use a DBA to open a bank account in Ohio?

Yes. Most banks accept DBA filings for opening accounts under the DBA name. Bring: Articles of Organization (if LLC), EIN, DBA certificate, operating agreement. The account will be in the format "LLC NAME dba DBA NAME".

Need liability protection? Form an LLC first.

DBAs alone don't protect personal assets. If you're going to file a DBA, form an LLC first and use the DBA as a sub-brand of the LLC.

Form an LLC in OH LLC vs DBA guide