Operating a business under a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name allows entrepreneurs to use a trade name that differs from their legal business entity name. In Arizona, if you’re considering updating your existing DBA name, the process involves specific steps and compliance requirements with the state. This guide breaks down each step to help you complete the transition smoothly and avoid common legal pitfalls.
When Should You Consider Changing Your DBA?
There are several scenarios where changing your DBA might make sense:
- You’re rebranding your business to reflect new services or direction.
- Your current DBA is too similar to another name in Arizona’s business registry.
- You’ve found a more marketable or memorable name.
- You’re merging with another company or shifting ownership.
Whatever the reason, it’s essential to follow Arizona’s legal procedures to maintain compliance and avoid penalties.
Step 1: Check the Availability of the New Name
Before making any changes, check if the new DBA name is available. The Arizona Secretary of State maintains an online database where you can search for existing trade names. Your new name should be distinct and not infringe on any trademarks.
Avoid assuming your name is unique without checking. Overlapping or deceptively similar names could lead to your application being denied or worse—legal action from other businesses.
Step 2: Cancel Your Existing DBA (If Applicable)
In Arizona, cancelling your current DBA is not mandatory before registering a new one, but it’s a smart move to keep your business records clean and up to date. If your old DBA is no longer in use, you can submit a Trade Name Cancellation form through the Arizona Secretary of State’s website. There is no fee for this cancellation. Completing this step helps prevent confusion and ensures that only your active business name is associated with your operations.
Step 3: Complete the DBA Application Form
The next step is to complete a new Trade Name Application form. This form collects details such as:
- The new trade name you wish to register
- A brief description of your business
- The legal name of the entity or individual using the DBA
Ensure accuracy and consistency in your application. Any discrepancies between this form and your business registration records can result in rejection or delays.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You can submit the completed application either online or by mail to the Arizona Secretary of State. Filing online is generally faster and allows you to track the status of your application in real-time.
The current fee for filing a DBA in Arizona is USD 10. While this may change, you should verify the latest fee schedule on the official website before submission. Retain a copy of your payment confirmation and submission receipt.
Step 5: Wait for Processing and Approval
Once your application is submitted, it typically takes a few business days to be processed. The Arizona Secretary of State will notify you if the DBA is approved, denied, or requires further clarification.
While you wait, avoid using the new DBA in marketing materials or official documents until you receive formal approval. This can help you avoid compliance issues or customer confusion.
Step 6: Update All Business Records
After receiving confirmation of your DBA approval, you must update your business records accordingly. This includes:
- Tax filings and licenses
- Bank accounts and merchant services
- Contracts and invoices
- Websites and email addresses
It’s a good idea to inform clients and vendors of the change to maintain transparency and trust.
Step 7: Consider Online Business Filing Support
Changing a DBA may seem straightforward, but it’s easy to overlook small but important details—especially if you’re also looking to restructure or grow your business. Many entrepreneurs who set up corporations online also use similar services to handle changes to their DBA. This ensures accuracy, reduces delays, and saves time navigating state-specific rules.
Conclusion
Changing your DBA in Arizona is not complicated, but it does require careful attention to legal procedures. Following each step methodically will help you stay compliant and protect your business’s public identity.
If you’re unsure about navigating the process on your own, platforms like MyCorporation can help streamline business filings and paperwork without overwhelming you with legal jargon. Whether you’re expanding or rebranding, taking the time to correctly manage your DBA change sets the right foundation for your business’s next chapter.
