How to File a DBA in Louisiana

What’s the process to register a business name in NOLA?

Starting a business in Louisiana comes with a lot of excitement — and a few legal steps you can’t afford to overlook. One of the most common questions entrepreneurs in New Orleans, Metairie, and across Southeast Louisiana ask is: Do I need to file a DBA Louisiana for my business? Registering a DBA is part of complying with Louisiana trade name laws and is overseen by the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office.

Whether you’re opening a boutique on Magazine Street, launching a consulting firm in St. Tammany Parish, or expanding your brand presence in Jefferson Parish, understanding Louisiana trade regulations and how to file a DBA in Louisiana is crucial for compliance and brand protection.

At Bloom Legal Network, we connect Louisiana business owners with skilled attorneys who can guide you through every step — from registering your business name to ensuring your legal foundation is solid from the start.

What Is a DBA and Why Does It Matter?

DBA stands for “Doing Business As.” In Louisiana, it’s also referred to as a Trade Name. A DBA is also known as a fictitious business name, assumed name, or trade name in Louisiana. It allows your business to operate under a name that’s different from its legal business name.

For example, if your LLC is registered as “Gulf Coast Catering, LLC” but you want to market your services as “Bayou Bites,” you need to file a DBA with the Louisiana Secretary of State. In this case, “Bayou Bites” would be considered an assumed business or fictitious business name.

Trade names, fictitious names, and DBA names are all terms used to describe the alternative names businesses use for branding and legal purposes. There is a distinction between your legal business name (such as your own name for sole proprietors) and a DBA name, which is used when you want to operate under a different name for your business.

Filing a DBA can help you:

• Legally market your business under your brand name
• Open business bank accounts using your trade name
• Build credibility with customers and vendors
• Expand into new markets without forming a new LLC
• Establish and protect your brand identity

Need help making sure your trade name complies with Louisiana law? Bloom Legal Network is here to support your success from the very beginning.

Who Needs a DBA in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, all types of business entities, including limited liability companies, corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships, may need a DBA if they want to operate under a name other than their officially registered one. A DBA does not create a separate legal entity or legal business entity; instead, it allows existing business entities to use a different business name for branding or operational purposes.

You should consider filing a DBA if:

• You’re a sole proprietor operating under a brand name
• Your limited liability company (LLC) is expanding to offer different services
• You run multiple business ventures under one business entity (for example, limited liability companies and other business entities can register multiple DBAs for different ventures)
• You’re rebranding without changing your legal structure
• Small business owners and sole proprietorships often use DBAs for flexibility in branding without forming a new legal entity

This is particularly important in business hubs like New Orleans, Kenner, and Mandeville, where local competition and visibility are high. Registering your trade name ensures you stay legally compliant and protect your brand reputation.

How to File a DBA in Louisiana: Step-by-Step

1. Choose Your Business Name

Your DBA must be distinguishable from other registered business names in Louisiana. To check availability:

• Search the business name database on the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website. Make sure your chosen DBA name is unique and complies with Louisiana regulations regarding dba names, including any restrictions on the number of DBAs allowed and differences between DBAs and trademarks.
• Avoid names that are misleading or too similar to existing ones.

✅ Pro Tip: A business attorney can help you avoid trademark issues and conflicts before you file.

2. Complete the Application for Trade Name Registration

You can file the Application to Register a Trade Name online through Louisiana’s GeauxBiz Portal, or you can submit a paper form by mail. Be prepared to include:

• Your company’s legal name and structure
• The trade name you wish to register
• The nature of your business activities
• Registered agent information, if applicable
• Your EIN (Employer Identification Number), which is issued by the Internal Revenue Service
• A signature from the business owner or representative

📍 Operating in Jefferson Parish or St. Charles Parish? A local attorney can also help you determine if parish-level filings or permits are necessary for your DBA.

3. Pay the Filing Fee

The current state filing fee for a DBA in Louisiana is $75. This fee is paid directly to the Secretary of State. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

4. Publish or Announce (if applicable)

While Louisiana does not require publication of a DBA like some states, some local jurisdictions might have notification requirements. This is where having a business lawyer who knows your parish laws becomes valuable.

5. Keep Your DBA Active

Trade name registrations in Louisiana must be renewed every 10 years. Failure to renew could result in cancellation, requiring you to restart the process.

Want help keeping your business filings up to date? Bloom Legal Network can connect you with local counsel who’ll stay on top of these deadlines — so you can stay focused on growth.

Why Work With a Business Attorney When Filing a DBA?

While you can technically file a DBA on your own, business law in Louisiana can be nuanced, especially when you’re dealing with multiple jurisdictions like St. Tammany Parish or downtown New Orleans.

A Louisiana business attorney can help:

• Ensure your trade name doesn’t conflict with trademarks
• Review your filing for accuracy and compliance
• Handle parish-level business license or permit questions
• Advise on tax implications or banking setup under your new name
• Advise on legal protection and liability protection, especially regarding how forming an LLC can shield your personal assets from business liabilities
• Help you choose the right business structure and clarify the distinction between a DBA and a legal business entity
• Guide you on the importance of intellectual property registration, such as trademarks, for protecting your brand
• Recommend consulting a tax professional for Louisiana DBA tax considerations, including compliance with state and federal tax obligations

At Bloom Legal Network, our business law partners understand what it takes to build and protect a brand in Louisiana. Whether you’re a startup or an established company, the right legal guidance sets you up for lasting success.

Filing a DBA the Right Way!

Registering a DBA in Louisiana is more than just paperwork — it’s a public declaration of your business identity. By registering a Louisiana DBA, your business can conduct business and operate legally under your chosen name. Louisiana DBAs are essential for businesses that want to operate under a different name and maintain compliance with state regulations. It gives your customers clarity, your brand strength, and your operations legitimacy.

If you’re planning to operate under a different name in places like Harahan, Metairie, or across Southeast Louisiana, don’t leave this legal step to chance. The right legal partner can help ensure your filings are correct, your business is protected, and your brand is positioned to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to register a DBA in Louisiana?

If filed online, most DBA registrations are processed within 1–2 business days. Paper filings can take longer. A business attorney can help ensure accuracy and avoid delays.

2. Do I need a separate EIN for my DBA?

Not necessarily. If your DBA is under the same legal entity, your existing EIN usually applies. However, some banks may require a new one depending on how your business is structured.

3. Can I use a DBA instead of forming an LLC?

No — a DBA does not provide legal protection. It’s just a name. If you want liability protection, forming an LLC or corporation is still necessary.

✅ Ready to File Your DBA in Louisiana?

Let Bloom Legal Network connect you with a trusted Louisiana business attorney who will walk you through every step with clarity and confidence.

📞 Call us at 504-599-9997
📧 Email us at info@bloomlegal.com
Let’s get your business name registered — the right way, from day one.