The Legal Requirement You Need to Know: Starting a Business in Sacramento County

Table of Contents

Step 1: File Your DBA/FBN Statement
Step 2: Publish Your Public Notice
Step 3: Submit Proof of Publication
Why is Publishing a Public Notice Important?
Starting Your Business Off Right
FAQs

3 Key Takeaways:

  1. Filing a DBA/FBN is required: If you’re starting a business in Sacramento County, you must file a “Doing Business As” (DBA) or Fictitious Business Name (FBN) statement with the County Clerk.

  2. Publication in a local newspaper: After filing, you must publish your DBA/FBN notice for four consecutive weeks in The Observer, a local newspaper in Sacramento County.

  3. Proof of publication: Once your notice has been published, you need to submit proof of publication to the County Clerk’s office to complete the process.

How to Place a DBA/FBN Public Notice in Sacramento County: Your Local Guide

If you’re starting a business in Sacramento County, one crucial step is filing a “Doing Business As” (DBA) or Fictitious Business Name (FBN) statement. This requirement ensures that your business name is officially recognized and available for public record, protecting consumers and supporting transparency.

Step 1: File Your DBA/FBN Statement

First, you need to file your DBA or FBN with the Sacramento County Clerk’s Office. This filing lets the county know you’re operating under a business name different from your own personal name or the legal name of your LLC or corporation.

Step 2: Publish Your Public Notice in a Sacramento Newspaper

After filing, California law requires you to publish your DBA/FBN statement in a local newspaper for four consecutive weeks. In Sacramento County, you can place this notice in The Observer, a widely recognized local newspaper.

Step 3: Submit Proof of Publication

Once the notice has run for four weeks, The Observer will provide you with proof of publication, which you’ll need to submit to the County Clerk’s office to finalize the process.

Why Is Publishing a Public Notice Important?

Publishing your DBA/FBN statement ensures transparency for your business, complying with California laws. It also gives your business credibility by officially registering it in public records.

Starting Your Business Off Right

By following these simple steps—filing your DBA/FBN and publishing your notice in The Observer—you’ll be on your way to establishing your business in Sacramento County.

FAQ: DBA/FBN Process in Sacramento County

  1. What is the difference between a DBA and an FBN? In Sacramento County, the terms “Doing Business As” (DBA) and “Fictitious Business Name” (FBN) are used interchangeably. Both refer to registering a business name that is different from your own name, your LLC, or corporation’s legal name.

  2. How do I file a DBA/FBN in Sacramento County? You can file a DBA/FBN statement with the Sacramento County Clerk’s Office either online, by mail, or in person. The form requires your business name, personal information, and details about your business type.

  3. Where do I publish my DBA/FBN public notice in Sacramento County? After filing your DBA/FBN, you must publish a public notice in The Observer, a local newspaper in Sacramento County, for four consecutive weeks as required by California law.

  4. How much does it cost to file a DBA/FBN and publish a notice in Sacramento County? Filing fees for a DBA/FBN in Sacramento County typically range between $30 and $50. The cost to publish the public notice in The Observer will vary, so it’s best to contact the newspaper for their current rates.

  5. What happens if I don’t publish my DBA/FBN notice in Sacramento County? Failure to publish your DBA/FBN notice in a timely manner can result in your filing being invalid. You will need to start the process over and ensure you meet the publication requirements to maintain legal standing for your business name.

Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information, laws and legal processes can vary, and they are subject to change. We recommend consulting with a licensed attorney or legal professional for advice regarding your specific legal situation. Column and its authors are not responsible for any errors or omissions in this content, or for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.