What is the difference between trade name and business name?

What is the difference between trade name and business name?

The business name is the legal name of the entity. Owners often register a trade name under which to operate their business. For example, John Smith owns a small business with a trade name (or DBA – “doing business as”) Smith’s Accounting Services.

Can I use a trading name?

A trading name is the name (or names) used by a person, partnership or company for carrying out business, which is not the same as their own name or official registered name. A business may use as many trading names as it requires, but these cannot be registered as official names of the company.

How much is a trade name?

If you operate as a sole proprietorship or partnership, you can register your business name as a trade name, also known as a fictitious business name, a “doing business as” name, or a DBA. In some states, you can register your name statewide by filing a form and paying a fee that typically ranges from $50–$150.