DBA stands for "doing business as." It refers to a name a business uses that is different from its legal, registered name. This alternative name is also known as a trade name, assumed name, or fictitious business name
. A DBA allows a business or individual to operate under a name other than their official legal name. For example, a sole proprietor can use a DBA to conduct business under a more marketable or recognizable name without creating a separate legal entity
. Registering a DBA is primarily a consumer protection measure, making it clear to the public who actually owns the business behind the trade name. It creates a public record of the business name but does not provide liability protection or establish a separate legal entity like an LLC or corporation does
. In summary, a DBA is a legal alias for a business, used for branding or operational purposes, but it does not change the legal structure or liability of the business
