File a Fictitious Business Name (FBN)

Choose a name to use publicly, sometimes known as a "DBA" or "Doing Business As." It can either be the same as your legal business name or different.

If your business is outside of San Francisco County, you must file your FBN with the County Clerk of that county. If your business is outside of California, you must file with the Clerk of Sacramento County.

Check if your business name is available Optional step

Time:

20 minutes

Search for your business name on the FBN index to see if it is available.

If your business name has already been filed with the San Francisco County Clerk's Office, you must choose another name.

Make sure that you are not infringing on other business trademarks or common law rights. Check your business name with the:

Register your business Optional step

Time:

Less than 1 hour

You must pay a registration fee and any unpaid taxes to complete your registration.

Your business registration is valid for 1 fiscal year July 1 through June 30.

You must renew your registration every year by May 31. If you don’t renew, your registration will expire in 5 years.

Complete and file FBN Statement form Optional step

Time:

20 minutes

You must present valid legal photo identification when filing in person.

Please include a self-addressed stamped envelope when filing via mail.