How to file a DBA in Virginia
Filing a DBA (Doing Business As, also called a fictitious or trade name) in Virginia costs $10 in state fees, lasts 5 years, and is registered with the Virginia State Corporation. We file it for you at the state cost, no service fee.
Virginia DBA at a glance
| State filing fee | $10 |
|---|---|
| Filing authority | Virginia State Corporation |
| Term length | 5 years (renewable) |
| Renewal required | Yes, before expiration |
| File.Business fee | $0 |
When you need a DBA in Virginia
You need a DBA in Virginia when your business operates under a name different from its legal name. Common cases:
- A sole proprietor in Virginia doing business under a brand name instead of their legal name
- An LLC or corporation in Virginia marketing under a brand different from the registered entity name
- An out-of-state company doing business in Virginia under a different name
- Multiple brands operated under one parent LLC in Virginia
How to file a DBA in Virginia: 5 steps
- Choose your DBA name. Search the Virginia business name database to confirm the name is available. It must not be deceptively similar to existing registered names.
- Verify name compliance. Virginia prohibits names that imply a corporation (Inc., Corp.) unless your entity actually is one. Avoid restricted words.
- Prepare the DBA filing. The Virginia State Corporation requires the legal name of the owner, the DBA name, business address, and a description of business activities.
- Pay the $10 state fee and submit. File online with the Virginia State Corporation or use File.Business to handle it for you at the state cost.
- Track the 5-year renewal. Virginia DBAs expire and require renewal. We track this for you automatically with our compliance calendar.
File your Virginia DBA now
Our team prepares the filing, submits it to the Virginia State Corporation, and tracks renewal. You pay only the $10 state fee. No service charges.
Start my Virginia DBADBA vs LLC in Virginia: which do you need?
A DBA is a name registration, not a business structure. It does not provide liability protection, separate tax treatment, or formal recognition as a business entity. If you want personal liability protection while operating under a brand name in Virginia, you typically form an LLC and then optionally file a DBA for additional brands.
Compare your options: Form an LLC in Virginia or Form a Corporation in Virginia.
Virginia DBA frequently asked questions
How long does it take to file a DBA in Virginia?
Processing time with the Virginia State Corporation varies. Online filings are typically processed within 2 to 5 business days. We submit the filing the same day you order.
How long is a Virginia DBA valid?
5 years from filing date. You must renew before expiration to keep the name registration active.
Do I need an EIN if I file a DBA in Virginia?
Only if you have employees, file certain tax forms, or open a business bank account in the DBA name. Sole proprietors with no employees can use their SSN. Get an EIN.
Can I file a DBA in Virginia for an out-of-state LLC?
Yes. If your LLC is registered in another state and does business in Virginia, you typically need to foreign-qualify in Virginia first, then file the DBA.
Does a Virginia DBA protect my brand from others using the same name?
A DBA only reserves the name with the Virginia State Corporation. For broader brand protection, file a federal trademark with the USPTO.
On the $129/yr Compliance Annual Filings plan, we cover state late fees.
When you autofile your annual report through the $129/yr plan and we miss the deadline, we pay the state's late fee. The guarantee applies to that specific plan and the filings it includes. Other File.Business services are billed at the prices on this page.