6 Things To Consider When Forming A Missouri DBA
Brad Smith • Oct 27, 2019
If you’ve wanted to start a business in Missouri, now is one of the best times to do so.
The “Show-Me State” came in sixth on Fit Small Business’s
ranking of best states to start a business. Factors such as cost of living and housing expenses contributed to the ranking.
What’s more, a 2017 CNBC and SurveyMonkey Small Business survey
boasted two Missouri cities—Springfield and St. Louis—on its list of the top 15 cities in America to start a business.
In this post, we’ll share what you need to consider when forming a Missouri DBA.
1. Choose A Business Type
We’ll get to what a DBA is and why it’s important.
First, though, one of the things you’ll want to do when starting a business in Missouri
is pick your business legal structure. What type of business you run has a whole host of implications, such as taxes, management, and more.
2. Pick A Name
When you pick a name for your Missouri business, that name “must be distinguishable from the name of any other foreign or domestic business entity registered” with the state.
Additionally, “every Missouri for-profit corporation must contain the word ‘corporation,’ ‘company,’ ‘incorporated,’ or ‘limited’ or end with an abbreviation of one of those words.”
This is why picking a business type is important.
3. The Name Must Be Fictitious
Missouri requires that any person or business entity doing business under a name other than their “true name” must register that name as a “fictitious name.”
A fictitious name
is also known as a DBA, an acronym that stands for “doing business as.”
The secretary’s office provides an example of a DBA:
“John Doe and Jane Smith may be the shareholders of Doe and Smith Ventures Inc., but operate a shop called John and Jane’s Coffee Shop. Doe and Smith Ventures Inc. must register the fictitious name under which it is doing business, John and Jane’s Coffee Shop.”
4. Know How To Register The Name
You can register your name online.
Or, register through postal mail
by filling out a form and paying a $7.00 filing fee.
5. Know What’s Protected Under A Fictitious Name
Your fictitious registration holds for five years and may be renewed at the end of the period.
However, your name is not protected. The Missouri SOS says that an infinite number of businesses can use the same name as you.
In order to protect your name, the Small Business Administration
says you will likely need to trademark it.
6. You Can Make Amendments
You may consider changing your name only by first canceling your existing fictitious registration and creating a new one.
You may also can change the address of the business or owner at the time of renewal.
The Missouri Secretary of State office is a tremendous resource in helping you understand how to form your Missouri DBA. Plus, as noted earlier, you’ve picked an excellent state in which to start a business.
Good luck in starting your Missouri business.
Interested in Working With Us?
If you need help with estate planning or any other legal concerns, we are here for you. Don't hesitate to contact our firm directly for assistance. Our dedicated team is ready to provide support and guidance to you and your loved ones during important life transitions.
Whether you're ready to schedule a strategy session to discuss your specific needs or if you're interested in exploring our wide range of complimentary guides and additional resources, we encourage you to get in touch with us.
With licensed attorneys and offices located in both Illinois and Missouri, we are well-equipped to serve clients in these regions. Reach out to us today and let us leverage our expertise and care to guide you through the legal process.
Helpful Guides
Begin your journey by taking advantage of our collection of complimentary guides.
Online Documents
Simple & Convenient, Cost Effective, Attorney Reviewed Documents.
Recent Posts
As we journey through life, one inevitable truth is the process of aging. In the United States, this reality brings about a myriad of legal considerations and challenges, prompting individuals and families to seek guidance in the realm of elder law. From estate planning to long-term care, understanding the intricacies of elder law can greatly ease the burden of navigating the complexities of aging. In this blog, we explore some frequently asked questions about elder law and delve into the landscape of aging in America.
As we journey through life, one inevitable truth is the process of aging. In the United States, this reality brings about a myriad of legal considerations and challenges, prompting individuals and families to seek guidance in the realm of elder law. From estate planning to long-term care, understanding the intricacies of elder law can greatly ease the burden of navigating the complexities of aging. In this blog, we explore some frequently asked questions about elder law and delve into the landscape of aging in America.
Many people overlook the importance of ongoing estate planning, assuming a will or trust is adequate. However, this passive approach can bring costly consequences for both finances and family in the future.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of Medicaid in Illinois and Missouri? You're not alone. Many people find themselves in a maze of regulations, paperwork, and confusing terminology when trying to access this vital healthcare program. In this blog post, we'll break down some of the key aspects of Medicaid and discuss why seeking help is essential for ensuring you get the benefits you deserve.
When it comes to estate planning, delaying action can have far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond our lifetimes.
If you don't have a plan in place for your assets, the state will step in to decide how they are distributed. While some may trust the state's judgment, it's important to recognize that it doesn't understand your individual circumstances, and the process can be both time-consuming and expensive.
Click HERE To View April Newsletter
Submit Your Confidential Request
Click the button & fill out the form so we can better understand how we can help.