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A DBA (Doing Business As) allows your business to operate under a name different from its legal entity name. While a DBA gives you flexibility in branding, its use is not automatically nationwide — it’s typically registered and valid at the state or county level.

Using a DBA Across States

DBA is state-specific: When you register a DBA, it is generally valid only in the state (or county) where it was filed.

Not automatically transferable: If you plan to operate in multiple states under the same DBA, you must register that DBA separately in each state where your business operates.

Foreign qualification may apply: If your LLC or corporation is formed in one state but you want to do business under a DBA in another, you may first need to register your company as a foreign entity in that new state.

Example Scenarios

Operating in One State: If your LLC is registered in Florida and you file a DBA there, you can use the DBA name for all operations in Florida.

Expanding to Another State: If you want to use that DBA in Texas, you’ll need to register the DBA in Texas as well (and possibly register your company as a foreign LLC in Texas).

Key Considerations

State Rules Differ: Some states require DBA filings at the state level, while others handle them at the county level.

Name Availability: Even if your DBA is approved in one state, it may not be available in another if another business is already using it.

Trademark Protection: A DBA does not provide nationwide protection. If you want exclusive rights to your business name across all states, consider filing a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Conclusion

While you can operate under your DBA within the state where it’s registered, a DBA is not automatically valid in every state. To use your DBA name in multiple states, you’ll need to file it separately in each state (and possibly foreign-qualify your business). For nationwide protection of your business name, a federal trademark is the best option.