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Should I set up a DBA

by RasVas
7 replies
Hey Warriors,

So I have my offline business selling mobile marketing ( sms, apps, mobile sites). I'm doing research into setting up a doing business as account so I can accept checks written to my business. My question is have all you big time offliners set up DBA accounts in the past or did you just start having checks written to your personal name?

Thanks

Vas
#dba #set
  • Profile picture of the author bob ross
    There's no reason to not setup a DBA.
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  • Profile picture of the author Aaron Doud
    Check with your state's specific rules.

    Depending on the costs you will want to file one of the following
    • DBA: This is the bare minimum you need and often the cheapest
    • LLC: In some states this is very cheap and gives you added protection vs. a DBA
    • Corporation: In some states it may be better to be a corporation vs. an LLC and could in fact be cheaper.
    The best advice is to get a lawyer to tell you what is best but when starting out many do a DBA. But if you are in a state where the better forms are as cheap as if not cheaper than a DBA you should skip the DBA step normally.

    One extra point to consider is that an LLC or Corp has filling rules and can only be dissolved by legal filings. A DBA is easier to end so if you are testing a business idea a DBA may still make sense before an LLC even if you live in a cheap LLC state.
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    Aaron Doud - Sales & Success
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  • Profile picture of the author misterme
    Question: Do you think it might be a good long term strategy for you to market and promote your personal name or an assumed name?
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    • Profile picture of the author Alchemist X
      Thanks OP for posting this, I was actually about to post a thread asking the exact same question. (In fact, I already did here)

      I understand the need to separate personal and business expenses, I really do. But until I get my first couple of clients, I'd just really not mess with it.

      As far as taxes and keeping books, a DBA is a must... but is it necessary right from the start? I feel like "My name, mobile agent" is just as professional as "my company." And that's really my only concern for now is professionalism.

      Once I get the ball rolling I will set up a DBA regardless, but I'd really rather not get into it when I haven't started getting revenue.
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      • Profile picture of the author BrashImpact
        LLC gives you huge protection and Legitimacy. Most states
        cost less than $200 and then you go and set up a bank account
        then a Merchant account if needed or Paypal with that business
        name.

        Just my 2 cents...

        That's how we did it.
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  • Profile picture of the author tinknocker
    A DBA is fine if your just starting out. If you conduct yourself professionally then you will be fine. If your business grows then you may want to go the LLC. route. I operate as a DBA and I look professional.
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  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    Look into an S-Corp to start. That's what I did and I'm happy with it.
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