The Essential Guide to Naming Your Business in NC: DBA vs. LLC

Starting a business is exciting, but choosing the right name is just as important as deciding what to sell. Whether you’re opening a bakery in Raleigh or offering handyman services in Asheville, the name you pick says a lot about your business. In North Carolina (NC), two popular ways to name your business are through a DBA (Doing Business As) or an LLC (Limited Liability Company). Both options have their uses, but which one is right for you?

This guide will walk you through the difference between a DBA and an LLC, how to get started with NC DBA registration, and how the right choice can help your business shine.

What Is a DBA?

A DBA, or “Doing Business As,” is a name your business uses that is different from your personal name or your company’s official legal name. For example, if your name is Sarah Thomas and you run a cake business, you might want to call it “Sweet Treats by Sarah.” If you don’t want to form a full legal company, you can register a DBA instead.

In North Carolina, a DBA is often called an assumed name or a fictitious name. It allows your business to appear more professional and makes it easier for customers to remember your brand.

What Is an LLC?

An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a type of legal business structure. It makes your business separate from you, which means your personal money and property are protected if something goes wrong. If someone sues your business, they can’t go after your house or car—only the company’s assets.

With an LLC, you still need to pick a name, but this name becomes the official legal name of your company. For example, “Green Leaf Landscaping LLC” is the legal name you’ll use on all paperwork, contracts, and business accounts.

Why the Right Business Name Matters

Picking the right name isn’t just about sounding good. Your business name:

• Helps people remember you
  
• Builds trust and professionalism
  
• Can be used on your website and business cards
  
• Makes it easier to get a business bank account
  

Whether you choose a DBA or LLC, your name is your first impression—so make it count.

NC DBA Registration: When Do You Need It?

If you’re doing business under a name that’s not your own or not the legal name of your business, you must register a DBA in North Carolina. This includes:

• Sole proprietors using a trade name (e.g. “Tom’s Auto Repair” instead of just “Tom Wilson”)
  
• LLCs or corporations using a brand name different from the registered legal name (e.g. “Sunshine Cleaning” instead of “Wilson Enterprises LLC”)
  

To complete NC DBA registration, follow these steps:

1. Pick a name that’s not already in use.
   
2. Do a name search using the North Carolina Business Registry or ask your local county office.
   
3. Fill out the Assumed Business Name Certificate form.
   
4. File it with the Register of Deeds office in the county where your business is located.
   
5. Pay a small fee.
   
6. Update your information if anything changes within 60 days.
   

The process is simple, and once your DBA is registered, you can start doing business under that name.

When Should You Choose an LLC?

While a DBA gives you a name, it does not protect you legally. This is the big difference between a DBA and an LLC. If you want protection for your personal property and want to form a legal company, go with an LLC.

Choose an LLC if:

• You want legal protection for your personal assets
  
• You are planning to hire employees
  
• You want to grow and bring in partners or investors
  
• You want flexibility with how you’re taxed
  

In North Carolina, forming an LLC involves filing Articles of Organization, choosing a registered agent, and paying state filing fees. You will also need to keep up with annual reports and state requirements to keep your LLC in good standing.

Can You Have Both an LLC and a DBA?

Yes, absolutely. Many business owners use both.

Let’s say your LLC is called “Miller Family Enterprises, LLC,” but you want to sell handmade soaps under the name “Mountain Mist Naturals.” Instead of creating a new LLC for every business idea, you can file a DBA for “Mountain Mist Naturals” under your existing LLC.

This helps you manage multiple brands while keeping everything under one company.

Benefits of NC DBA Registration

Filing a DBA in North Carolina has several perks:

• You can open a business bank account in the name of your business.
  
• Your business looks more professional to customers and vendors.
  
• You can advertise and accept payments under your chosen name.
  
• You protect your brand name locally, discouraging others from using it.
  

It’s a cost-effective way to build a business identity without setting up a full legal entity like an LLC.

Which One Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

If you’re just starting out, a DBA is a great first step. If you’re growing fast, want protection, or need to scale, an LLC might be a better fit.

The paperwork might sound simple, but filing errors can delay your business launch. That’s where companies like MyCorporation come in. They can help you file your DBA in North Carolina quickly and correctly, saving you time and hassle.

You’ll get the peace of mind knowing your name is registered, your forms are filed, and your brand is ready to go live.

Whether you go with a DBA or an LLC, what matters most is starting the right way. Pick a name you love, make sure it’s available, and register it properly in North Carolina.