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Two filings trip up more small businesses than any others: the annual report that keeps your LLC in good standing, and the DBA you need to operate under a different name. Here’s what each involves, what it costs, and when to hand it off.
Most states require LLCs to file an annual or biennial report, with fees from $0 to several hundred dollars. Missing it can get your LLC dissolved. A DBA (“doing business as”) registers a trade name with your state or county, usually for a modest fee. Both are easy to do yourself, but a registered agent service can track deadlines and file for you.
If your business operates under a name other than its legal name, for example “Smith Consulting LLC” trading as “Bright Path Advisors,” most states require you to register a DBA. Depending on the state, you file with the Secretary of State, your county clerk, or both. Some states also require you to publish a notice in a local newspaper.
Its registered agent service sends reminders before every state deadline and can file your annual report for you, so your LLC stays in good standing.
Most states charge a late fee, and if you keep missing it, the state can administratively dissolve your LLC, which can remove your liability protection. Reinstating usually costs more than filing on time.
No. A DBA just registers a name. It doesn’t create a separate legal entity or protect your personal assets the way an LLC does.
Most do, but some require them every two years and a few have no report for LLCs. Check your Secretary of State’s website.