How do you form a business name in California?

Question

I know there are many ways to do this and a ton of services online that charge a boat load of money for something you can easily do yourself with the state I just don't know the process. I live in Los Angeles- I just want to form a Sole Propietorship, nothing fancy

Answer 1

Here are places where you can learn How to Start a Business in California

California Business Portal http://www.ss.ca.gov/business/resources.htm
California Business Search http://kepler.ss.ca.gov/list.html

For Business Registration, Permits and Licenses

California Business Permitting Database http://www.calgold.ca.gov/
California Dept of Consumer Affairs Licensing Information http://www.dca.ca.gov/aboutdca/licnhelp.htm

CALGOLD is especially good even if you will run a business that will not require a license as it gives you the address and contact information where you can get the business name in your county

The simpliest way is to go to your city/county clerk's office and request for their procedure for registering your business name. I understand that Los Angeles county requires that the fictitious name be announced in a newspaper publication ad and that the applicant submit proof of publication, resulting in a longer processing time of about three weeks.

Answer 2

It's simple...call the State Board of Equilization in your area
and ask them about their procedure. Usually, you just go in,
fill out some forms about locaton and the name you want,
addresses, etc. Then you need to go to your local business
licensing bureau and register there. And then you need to
place an ad in your local paper that states your intention
of doing business under your chosen name (It's called a
Ficticious Name Certificate). The paper will usually follow-up
with the consecutive publishings (think there are about 4)
and submit these for you automatically for a small, all
inclusive fee. There are simple forms for you to fill out.
That should do it. If this is your first business venture,
I'd suggest speaking to an accountant for advise on keeping
records and what's required in your type of business.
Good luck to you. P.S. Ask the State Board about searches
for anyone who might already have the name you've chosen...
you'll have to alter it if it's already in use.

Answer 3

Just go to city hall and buy a dba license for about $100