How To Get a DBA in Hawaii in Three Steps
To register a DBA (Doing Business As) or trade name in Hawaii, you need to file an “Application for Registration of Trade Name” with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) and pay a registration fee.
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Suppose you’re starting a business in Hawaii and want to operate under a name that’s different from your legal business name. In that case, you’ll need to register for a DBA or “Doing Business As.” This article will guide you through the steps to register a DBA in Hawaii, from choosing the right name to ensuring compliance with state regulations after registration.
A DBA allows you to conduct business using a more memorable or fitting name without having to create a new legal entity. Whether you’re a sole proprietor or managing a larger company, a DBA can help you establish a unique brand that stands out in the Hawaiian market.
Choose a Business Name
The first step in registering a DBA is selecting the name you want to use for your business. In Hawaii, the name you choose must be unique and cannot be the same or too similar to any existing registered business name. It’s a good idea to brainstorm a few options, just in case your first choice is unavailable.
Check the Name Availability
Once you have your preferred fictitious business name, you’ll need to verify that it’s available for use in the state of Hawaii. You can do this by conducting a business name search via the Hawaii Business Express (HBE) website, which allows you to check whether the name is already registered or reserved by another business in the state. You may also want to search for an appropriate web domain that matches your desired trade name.
Register Your DBA With the Hawaii DCCA
To officially register your DBA, you’ll need to file with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), a key government agency responsible for business registrations in the state. You can file online through the Hawaii Business Express system or by mail. If your business needs a registered agent, which is required for certain types of business entities like LLCs or corporations, you’ll want to ensure the agent is listed correctly when filing your DBA.
The form you need to file is the Application for Registration of Trade Name. Make sure to provide all required information accurately, as this will be your official Hawaii trade name moving forward.
To register by mail, send your completed DBA filing forms to:
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Business Registration Division (BREG)
P.O. Box 40
Honolulu, HI 96810123
When filing your DBA application, you’ll be required to pay a filing fee. As of the most recent update, the fee for registering a trade name in Hawaii is $50. If you need expedited processing, there may be additional costs.
Managing a DBA in Hawaii After Registration
Renewing Your DBA
In Hawaii, you must renew DBAs (trade names) every five years to remain valid. It’s important to keep track of your renewal dates and file your renewal application with the DCCA before its expiration to avoid any disruptions to your business operations.
Updating Your Name
Once your DBA is registered, it’s important to maintain compliance with Hawaii’s business regulations, which may include tax obligations with the Department of Taxation. Ensure to register your business for any state or local taxes. Additionally, if you’re required to have a registered agent for your business, keep this information up to date and promptly report any changes to your company name, business structure, business owners, or contact information with the Hawaii DCCA to avoid any legal or compliance issues.
You’ll also need to take a few steps to ensure your business operates smoothly under the new DBA name:
Updating business licenses and permits: If your business requires local or state licenses, you may need to update them to reflect your DBA registration. This helps ensure you remain in compliance with industry regulations and can legally operate under the new name.
Notifying insurance providers: Make sure to update your business insurance policies to include your DBA. This ensures that all business activities under the new name are fully covered. If you work in a regulated industry, such as insurance or real estate, you may also need to update your professional licenses.
Updating business bank accounts and financial institutions: It’s essential to inform your bank and other financial institutions about your DBA. This allows you to accept payments and issue checks under your new business name, avoiding any issues with financial transactions.
For additional guidance and resources, you can contact the Business Action Center (BAC), part of the Hawaii DCCA. The BAC offers assistance with business registration, licensing, and general support to help entrepreneurs navigate Hawaii’s business environment.
Additionally, be mindful of the renewal process. As mentioned, you must renew your DBA every five years. Missing the renewal deadline could result in the loss of your trade name.
Hawaii DBA FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost to file a DBA (trade name) in Hawaii is $50. There may be additional fees if you choose expedited processing.
To register a DBA in Hawaii, you need to file an Application for Registration of Trade Name with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). You can file online through the Hawaii Business Express (HBE) system or by mail. Make sure your business name is unique and not already in use.
You must renew DBAs in Hawaii every five years. To maintain your DBA, you must file a renewal form with the DCCA before the expiration date.
Yes, a nonprofit can have a DBA name. This allows the organization to operate under a different name than its legal one while still maintaining its original name for official purposes. Nonprofits register a DBA with the state the same way they register a business name.
Yes, in Hawaii, a trade name is essentially the same as a DBA or assumed name. It allows you to do business under a name different from your legal business name.
No, a DBA or trade name is not the same as a service mark. A DBA or trade name is simply the name under which a business operates, whereas a service mark is a type of trademark that protects the branding of services provided by a business. While a DBA allows you to conduct business under a different name, a service mark gives legal protection for the name, logo, or slogan associated with your services. If you want exclusive rights to your business’s branding, you would need to file for a trademark or service mark.
Yes, you can cancel your trade name (DBA) registration by filing a cancellation request with the DCCA.
No, a DBA itself cannot obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS, but the legal business entity behind the DBA can apply for one. Entrepreneurs and sole proprietorships often don’t use an EIN, but if your small business does, you’ll use the same EIN for any DBAs your business operates under.
No, a DBA does not provide legal protection for your personal assets. It is simply a different name for your company, brand, or product. The only way to provide liability protection for your personal assets is to form a legal business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), corporation, or limited partnership. For more information on creating a Hawaii LLC or other business structure, consider exploring our business formation services.
To file a DBA in Hawaii, you’ll need to complete and submit the Application for Registration of Trade Name registration forms with the necessary information, such as the desired business name, your own name, and your legal business details. You’ll then submit that online at hawaii.gov or in-person.
Need Help Registering a Hawaii DBA Name?
Registering a DBA in Hawaii can help your business, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or other type of business, operate under a different name without forming a separate legal entity. This can be an excellent option for businesses that don’t want to go through the process of incorporation but still want to build a unique brand. By following the steps outlined here, you’ll ensure your business is compliant with Hawaii state regulations.
If you need assistance with the DBA process or are considering other business structures like incorporation, consulting with an attorney can provide valuable insights. Visit our attorney directory to find a professional who can help you register your DBA or guide you through other important decisions for your business. Or you can let our trusted partner, LegalZoom, handle your name search, DBA application filing, and publishing for $99 plus filing fees.
Disclaimer: The information presented here does not constitute legal advice or representation. It is general and educational in nature, may not reflect all recent legal developments, and may not apply to your unique facts and circumstances. Consider consulting with a qualified business attorney if you have legal questions.
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