If you're planning to start a business in the Sunshine State, you've likely come across two terms: DBA (Doing Business As) and LLC (Limited Liability Company). They’re both part of the Florida business setup process, but they serve very different purposes. So, how do you decide what you need? Do you need both? Or just one?

In this guide, we’ll break down what a DBA is, how it differs from an LLC, and what you really need when going through a Florida LLC setup. Whether you're running a side hustle, launching a full-fledged startup, or expanding your global business to Florida, this guide is designed to answer your key questions and help you make confident, informed decisions.

What Is a DBA?

A DBA, or "Doing Business As," is a way for a business to operate under a name that’s different from its legal name. For example, if your registered company is called "Green Coast Holdings, LLC" but you want to run a café called "Breezy Bean Coffee," you'd register a DBA for that trade name.

In Florida, DBAs are also referred to as "fictitious names," and they are registered with the Florida Department of State.

What Is an LLC?

An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a formal business structure that separates your personal assets from your business liabilities. This is one of the most popular structures for small and medium-sized businesses because it combines legal protection with flexible management and tax benefits.

If you're preparing for an LLC setup in Florida, you're setting up a separate legal entity—one that can enter contracts, own property, and be sued (without directly affecting your personal assets).

Key Differences Between a DBA and an LLC

Let’s clear up the confusion. Here are the primary differences:

So, a DBA is just a name. It doesn’t give you liability protection or tax benefits. An LLC, on the other hand, is a full business structure. You can own a business with a DBA, but you’ll still be personally liable for everything that happens in that business. If you form an LLC, the business is its own legal person, which provides a safety net for your personal assets.

Do You Need a DBA If You Set Up an LLC in Florida?

Here’s where many entrepreneurs get stuck. The short answer is: it depends on how you want to operate.

If your Florida LLC will operate under the exact legal name you registered during formation, then you don’t need a DBA. But if you want to use a different name to market your products or services, then you will need a DBA in addition to your LLC.

For example:

• You form "Sunrise Digital LLC" but want to market your business as "Sunset Creatives"—you’d register a DBA for that.

• But if you're perfectly happy doing business as "Sunrise Digital LLC," no need for a DBA.

A DBA gives you branding flexibility without changing your legal structure. It’s a useful tool, but not a substitute for forming an LLC.

When Should You Use a DBA?

There are several situations where a DBA makes sense:

• Branding purposes: You want to operate under a more customer-friendly or industry-specific name.

• Multiple business lines: You run different products or services under the same LLC and want separate brand identities.

• Franchise operations: You're a franchisee who needs to operate under the franchisor’s name.

• Testing new ideas: You’re exploring a new product line without forming a whole new LLC.

Just remember, a DBA doesn’t protect your assets. If you’re running your business under a DBA as a sole proprietor, you still carry all the risk.

Also Read: Benefits of Company Incorporation in USA for Entrepreneurs

Florida LLC Setup and DBA Registration Process

If you’re ready to set up an LLC in Florida, here’s how the process typically goes:

1. Choose a unique business name for your LLC that complies with Florida's naming guidelines.

2. File Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations.

3. Designate a registered agent with a Florida address.

4. Pay the state filing fee, which is currently around $125.

5. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS for tax purposes.

Once your LLC is approved, you can start operating under that name. If you decide later to use a different name, the DBA (fictitious name) process includes:

1. Search Florida’s Fictitious Name database to ensure your desired name is available.

2. Publish a legal notice in a newspaper (this requirement is no longer enforced as of 2009, but some outdated resources still mention it).

3. File the DBA registration online with the Florida Division of Corporations.

4. Pay a $50 registration fee.

That’s it! You can now market your business under the DBA name while keeping your LLC intact.

Final Thoughts: DBA or LLC – Which Do You Need?

If you’re serious about protecting your assets, attracting clients, and growing a sustainable business in Florida, forming an LLC is usually the way to go. It’s especially important for entrepreneurs operating globally, since a formal structure like an LLC carries weight with banks, investors, and international partners.

A DBA can be a valuable tool when you want to expand your brand or operate under a different identity, but it should be seen as a supplement to an LLC, not a replacement.

We recommend considering where you want your business to be in 1, 3, or 5 years. If you’re looking to scale, hire employees, or build a strong brand presence, combining a Florida LLC setup with a DBA might give you the best of both worlds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a DBA without forming an LLC in Florida?
Yes, but keep in mind that operating under a DBA as a sole proprietor does not provide liability protection. You’ll be personally responsible for business debts and legal issues.

2. How long does it take to set up an LLC in Florida?
Online filings are typically processed within 1 to 2 business days. Mail-in applications can take up to 10 business days.

3. Can one LLC have multiple DBAs in Florida?
Yes, an LLC can register multiple DBAs (fictitious names) to operate different brands under the same legal entity. Each one needs to be registered separately.