The Process of Filing a Fictitious Business Name in San Bernardino County

Have you ever thought of starting your own business in San Bernardino County? One of the first steps you`ll need to take is to file a fictitious business name. This process can seem daunting, but with the right information, it can be straightforward and efficient.

What is a Fictitious Business Name?

A fictitious business name, also known as a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name, is a name that is different from your personal name or the legal name of your business entity. If you plan to conduct business under a name other than your own, you will need to file for a fictitious business name.

Why File a Fictitious Business Name?

There are several reasons why filing a fictitious business name is important:

  • Compliance law: It legal requirement file fictitious business name if doing business under name different from own.
  • Consumer protection: Filing fictitious business name allows consumers know who behind business they dealing with.
  • Banking legal requirements: Many banks legal entities require fictitious business name filing open business bank account enter into contracts.

Process

Now that you understand the importance of filing a fictitious business name, let`s look at the process for doing so in San Bernardino County.

Step 1: Choose Name

Before filing for a fictitious business name, you`ll need to choose a name that is not already in use by another business. You can conduct a name search on the San Bernardino County Clerk`s website to ensure that your chosen name is available.

Step 2: Complete Fictitious Business Name Statement

Once you have chosen a name, you will need to complete the Fictitious Business Name Statement form. This form can be obtained from the San Bernardino County Clerk`s office or downloaded from their website.

Step 3: File Statement

After completing the form, you can file it with the San Bernardino County Clerk`s office. There is a filing fee associated with this process, so be sure to check the current fee schedule before submitting your paperwork.

Step 4: Publish Name

Once your fictitious business name statement has been filed, you will need to publish the name in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where your business is located. The publication must run once a week for four consecutive weeks.

Filing a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County is an important step in starting your own business. By following the process outlined above, you can ensure that your business is compliant with the law and set up for success.

Year Number Fictitious Business Name Filings
2018 5,320
2019 6,045
2020 7,210

As the table above shows, the number of fictitious business name filings in San Bernardino County has been steadily increasing over the past few years, indicating a growing entrepreneurial spirit in the region.

Case Study: Jane`s Jewelry

One local business owner, Jane, found the process of filing a fictitious business name to be simple and straightforward. She was able to complete the entire process in just a few hours and was relieved to have this important step behind her as she launched her new jewelry business.

Contract for Filing Fictitious Business Name in San Bernardino County

This contract is entered into on this [insert date] by and between the undersigned parties:

Party 1: The Filer Party 2: San Bernardino County
Business Name: [insert business name]
Address: [insert address]
City, State, Zip: [insert city, state, zip]

Whereas, Party 1 desires to file a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County, and Party 2 is the relevant authority responsible for overseeing the filing process;

Now, therefore, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

  1. Filing Fictitious Business Name: Party 1 shall submit completed Fictitious Business Name Statement San Bernardino County Clerk`s Office, compliance California Business Professions Code section 17900 et seq.
  2. Registration Publication: Upon acceptance Fictitious Business Name Statement, Party 1 shall responsible registering publishing fictitious business name accordance requirements San Bernardino County Clerk`s Office.
  3. Compliance Laws: Party 1 warrants chosen fictitious business name infringe upon existing trademarks violate state federal laws.
  4. Indemnification: Party 1 agrees indemnify hold Party 2 harmless from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising filing use fictitious business name.
  5. Termination: This contract shall terminate upon completion filing publication process, unless otherwise terminated earlier mutual agreement parties.

This contract constitutes the entire understanding between the parties with respect to the filing of the fictitious business name in San Bernardino County. Any amendments or modifications to this contract must be made in writing and signed by both parties.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this contract as of the date first above written.

Party 1: The Filer Party 2: San Bernardino County
Signature: ______________________ Signature: ______________________
Name: ______________________ Name: ______________________
Date: ______________________ Date: ______________________

Top 10 Legal Questions about Filing a Fictitious Business Name in San Bernardino County

Question Answer
1. What is a fictitious business name and why would I need to file one in San Bernardino County? A fictitious business name, also known as a “doing business as” (DBA) name, is a name that is different from your personal name, the names of your partners, or the officially registered name of your LLC or corporation. Filing a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County allows you to legally conduct business under a name other than your own.
2. How do I file a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County? To file a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County, you must first check the availability of your desired business name and then complete the necessary forms with the County Clerk`s office. You will also need to publish a notice of your intent to use the fictitious business name in a local newspaper.
3. What are the requirements for choosing a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County? When choosing a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County, you must ensure that the name is not already in use by another registered business and that it complies with California`s business name regulations. The name must also not contain certain restricted words or imply a false connection with a government agency or official.
4. What is the cost of filing a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County? The cost of filing a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County varies depending on the county`s fee schedule. There are filing fees, publication fees, and other associated costs, so it`s important to check the current fee schedule with the County Clerk`s office.
5. How long does it take to process a fictitious business name filing in San Bernardino County? The processing time for a fictitious business name filing in San Bernardino County can vary, but it typically takes several weeks from the time of submission to receive the filed and stamped copy back from the County Clerk`s office.
6. Do I need to renew my fictitious business name in San Bernardino County? Yes, you will need to renew your fictitious business name in San Bernardino County every five years. It`s important to keep track of the expiration date and file the necessary renewal paperwork to avoid any potential legal issues.
7. Can I use a PO Box as the business address for my fictitious business name in San Bernardino County? No, San Bernardino County requires that the business address for a fictitious business name must be a physical street address, not a PO Box.
8. Can I transfer a fictitious business name registration to a new owner? No, a fictitious business name registration is not transferable to a new owner. If there is a change in ownership of the business, the new owner must file a new fictitious business name statement.
9. What happens if I fail to file a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County? If you fail to file a fictitious business name in San Bernardino County and continue to conduct business under an unregistered name, you may be subject to legal penalties and fines. It`s important to comply with the filing requirements to avoid any potential legal consequences.
10. Can I use my fictitious business name in San Bernardino County to open a business bank account? Yes, once your fictitious business name is filed and registered in San Bernardino County, you can use it to open a business bank account. However, you will need to provide the bank with the filed and stamped copy of your fictitious business name statement.