A Colorado DBA search can be conducted easily. A DBA, which stands for "doing business as," is also known as a fictitious name. This will be the name viewed by the public and the one used in advertising, on company signs, written your business's checks, and used on company letterhead. In Colorado, you can file your chosen DBA with the state or county government where you will be conducting business.

Conditions for Filing a DBA in Colorado

If you are going to operate your business in Colorado, a business name has to be registered as a DBA. There are two specific conditions that apply. First, a sole proprietor must file a DBA if they choose to operate under a name other than their own. Second, the parent company of a corporation or LLC, which chooses to operate under a name that is not their own, must file a DBA with the state of Colorado. A DBA is required in most states for businesses that want to operate using a name other than their own.

What Not to Include in Your DBA Name

There are certain words that a DBA cannot include. Some examples of what not to include in your DBA name are:

  • Corporation.
  • Inc.
  • Incorporated.
  • Corp.

Also, note that the name can't be close to that of a DBA which has recently ceased to exist.

Why File a DBA?

One of the major reasons to file a DBA in Colorado is due to the fact that a bank won't let you open an account until the DBA is filed and the proper paperwork is shown at the bank you want to conduct business with. Make sure to check with the bank to confirm the paperwork you will need to show them.

Some banks only require copies of the original paperwork while others may want original, notarized paperwork. Another thing to note is that advertising, contracts, and stationery will not be given without a DBA filing in the state of Colorado. Allowing the public to have access to your business information is also a good reason to make sure you file a DBA.

Requirements to File a DBA

Make sure to file your fictitious name as a DBA no more than 30 to 60 days after conducting business in the state of Colorado. Otherwise, you could face charges of fraud. Some of the information you will need when filing your DBA includes:

  • Chosen fictitious name.
  • Address of your business.
  • Owner's name (whether it's an individual or parent corporation).
  • Type of business or nature of business being conducted.

Keep in mind there will be a filing fee which will need to be paid to the state of Colorado to conduct your business. There are certain businesses which require a special license or permit, not just a DBA filing. To decide if your business type needs this special licensing go to https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/business/FAQs/tradeNames.html. A DBA is good for five years after it is filed.

Steps to Start a Business in Colorado

Starting a new business in the state of Colorado means you must first register for the taxes that are related to your business's services. Some of the most common ways in which a business is taxed in Colorado include the following:

  • Wage withholding tax.
  • Sales and use tax.

Depending on which services your business provides, these are some of the taxes that might also apply:

  • Liquor excise tax.
  • Cigarette and tobacco tax.
  • Severance tax.
  • Fuel excise tax.

For more information on registration requirements, visit Colorado's Department of Revenue Division of Taxation site. If you would like to download the forms electronically, you can also go to the Department of Revenue's Forms page. Specific information regarding the forms of taxation can also be found here.

Acquiring Permits and Licensing

Your new Colorado business must acquire permits or licenses. This is in addition to registering for taxes, which are relevant to the type of business being conducted. The permit or licensing cost will vary depending on the conditions surrounding your business. Some examples of Colorado permits and licenses include:

  • Beer permits.
  • Wine permits.
  • Plumbing permits.
  • Bingo licenses.
  • Raffle licenses.

Go to the Get Licenses and Permits page on Colorado.gov. This site will allow you to either renew or obtain a new business license. It also features a Licenses, Permits, and Registration page where you can get more information regarding background checks and registration.

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