In Alabama, a DBA (doing business as) is called a trade name. Sole proprietors and partnerships register trade names at the county probate court in the county where the business operates. LLCs and corporations file a Name Reservation or amendment with the Alabama Secretary of State. County filing fees typically run $10–$35.
What is a DBA in Alabama?
A DBA — short for "doing business as" — allows a business to operate under a name other than its legal name. In Alabama, this is officially called a trade name or fictitious name. For example, if John Smith runs a landscaping company, he might register the trade name "Green Thumb Landscapes" instead of operating as "John Smith."
A DBA does not create a separate legal entity. It simply allows you to do business, open bank accounts, and receive payments under a different name.
Who needs a DBA in Alabama?
- Sole proprietors who want to operate under a business name
- Partnerships operating under a name other than the partners' names
- LLCs and corporations that want to operate under a name different from their registered legal name
How to register a DBA in Alabama
Sole proprietors and partnerships
Check name availability
Search the Alabama Secretary of State's business database to make sure the name isn't already in use by an LLC or corporation. Also check your county probate records.
File a Trade Name Certificate at the county probate court
Go to the probate court in the county where your business is located. File a Trade Name Certificate (sometimes called a fictitious name certificate). Fees vary by county — typically $10–$35.
Publish a notice (may be required)
Some Alabama counties require you to publish a notice of your trade name registration in a local newspaper. Check with your county probate court for specific requirements.
LLCs and corporations
LLCs and corporations that want to use a different name must either (1) formally change their name by filing an amendment with the Alabama Secretary of State, or (2) file a foreign qualification if operating under a different name in another capacity. Using an assumed name without proper registration can expose the business to legal risk.
| Official term | Trade name / fictitious name |
| Where to file (sole prop/partnership) | County probate court |
| Filing fee | $10–$35 (varies by county) |
| Does it create a new legal entity? | No |
| Does it provide trademark protection? | No — file federally with USPTO for that |
DBA vs. LLC — which do you need?
A DBA is just a name — it provides no liability protection. If you're a sole proprietor using a DBA and your business gets sued, your personal assets are at risk. An LLC with a trade name gives you both a doing-business-as name and liability protection. For most businesses, forming an Alabama LLC is the better long-term move.