DBA cost in Maryland

Question

I want to open my own DJ business in Maryland and would like to use a DBA.

What is the process in getting this? What is required? And how much does it cost?

Thanks!

Answer 1

DBA generally means Doing Business As...

As in, I am John Smith, but I do business as Hip Hop DJ Cool.

Go on and have business cards made up. Print some flyers. Send some mailings to people, advertise.

There is no process. That's why it's popular. No registration or license (unless the BUSINESS you are in requires a license or registration)

No separate tax issues. You use Schedule C of Form 1040 to report your DBA business income and expenses.

Common sense issues -

Don't use the same name as another person or company.

If you accidently find that you picked a name that is the same or very similar to someone who is already in business, pick a new name.

Don't start spending money on protecting your legal rights before you make any money. 9 times out of 10, these business ideas just stay ideas and never amount to anything. Don't waste your money until you've proven to yourself that you can actually make a success at this business.

Wait until you have made at least $1,000 in PROFIT before you start shelling out $250 an hour for legal and accounting and tax advice.

That's just my personal opinion.