A Contra Costa California Fictitious Business Name Statement, also known as a DBA (Doing Business As) statement, is a legal document that individuals or companies must file with the county clerk's office when conducting business under a name that differs from their legal name or entity name. It addresses the need for transparency and consumer protection by ensuring that the public can identify and locate the real owner(s) of a business. The Contra Costa California Fictitious Business Name Statement is essential for businesses operating under a name other than their legal business name, commonly referred to as a "DBA name." The statement provides information about the business, such as the name under which it operates, the principal place of business, the business owner's name, and contact information. By filing this statement with the county clerk's office, individuals or entities create a public record of their DBA name, allowing consumers or interested parties to easily identify and locate the business owner. This safeguard helps prevent fraudulent activities and ensures accountability when dealing with businesses operating under a fictitious name. There are several types of Contra Costa California Fictitious Business Name Statements that cater to different entities and purposes: 1. Sole Proprietorship DBA: Sole proprietors, who run a business as an individual, separate from their personal legal name, must file a Fictitious Business Name Statement to operate under a DBA name. For example, John Smith may file a DBA statement as "John's Auto Repair" to conduct his business under that name. 2. Partnership DBA: Partnerships, whether limited or general, are required to file a Fictitious Business Name Statement if they operate under a name other than the legal names of the partners. This type of statement allows partners to conduct business collectively using a chosen DBA name. 3. Corporation or LLC DBA: Corporations or Limited Liability Companies (LCS) that wish to operate under a name different from their legal business name must also submit a Fictitious Business Name Statement. This statement is necessary to maintain legal transparency and inform the public about the actual business owner behind the DBA. 4. Amendments or Withdrawals: In case of any changes to the previously filed Contra Costa California Fictitious Business Name Statement, such as a change in address or owner's name, an amendment must be filed. Similarly, if a business decides to discontinue using a specific DBA name, they can file a withdrawal statement to cancel or retire the fictitious name. Overall, the Contra Costa California Fictitious Business Name Statement is a vital document for businesses, individuals, partnerships, corporations, and LCS operating under a name that is not their legal name. It ensures transparency, consumer protection, and legal compliance by providing accurate information about the business owner(s) and related details of the DBA name.
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.