Business services
California DBA filing
A California DBA is a fictitious business name, filed with the county where the principal place of business is located—not with the Secretary of State. County filing and publication requirements must be confirmed for your location; publication is generally required for a new fictitious business name filing. A DBA does not form a separate LLC or corporation.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Corp USA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
The requirements
What to know before you file
File with your county
The Secretary of State directs fictitious business name filings to the county of the principal business location. Ask the county clerk for the applicable forms and requirements.
Official source: California Secretary of StateCounty fees and publication
County filing fees and publication charges are separate from service fees. Confirm the required newspaper, schedule, exemptions and proof of publication with the county clerk before ordering; no statewide price or publication deadline is quoted here.
Official source: California Secretary of StateNot a separate legal entity
A fictitious business name is distinct from forming an LLC or corporation. Review the state’s formation guidance if you also need an entity.
Official source: California Secretary of StateThe answers that matter
Frequently asked questions
No. The SOS FAQ directs fictitious business name filings to the county where the principal place of business is located.
Official source: California Secretary of StateCounty filing and publication costs depend on location and requirements. Confirm those charges and the service price before ordering.
Official source: California Secretary of StateYour next chapter. In California.
Review your options and costs before you order.
Corp USA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.