Ever thought about running your business under a unique trade name without setting up a brand-new legal entity? That’s where a DBA (Doing Business As) comes in. For many entrepreneurs in Colorado, whether you’re a sole proprietor, freelancer, or managing an LLC, filing a DBA is a practical way to expand your brand while keeping your current business structure.
In Colorado, DBAs (officially called Trade Names) are required if you’re operating under any name other than your legal one. Registering a trade name ensures transparency with customers, banks, and state agencies while protecting your credibility in the marketplace.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, costs, and requirements for filing a DBA in Colorado so you can avoid mistakes and confidently operate under the business name that best represents your vision.
What Is a DBA in Colorado?
A DBA (Doing Business As), known in Colorado as a Trade Name, allows a business to operate under a name different from its legal one. For example, if Sarah Johnson runs a sole proprietorship but wants to sell handmade candles under the name Mountain Glow Creations, she must register a trade name.
It’s essential to recognize that a trade name is distinct from forming an LLC or corporation. Unlike those business structures, a DBA doesn’t create a separate legal entity or provide liability protection. It’s simply about registering the name you want to use in business.
You might need a DBA in Colorado if you:
- Want to operate under a brand name that’s different from your personal or company’s legal name.
- Plan to run multiple businesses under a single LLC or sole proprietorship.
- Need to open a business bank account using your trade name.
In short, a trade name in Colorado is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to establish a professional business identity without restructuring your company.
Who Needs to File a DBA in Colorado?
Not every business in Colorado needs a DBA, but many do once they want to operate under a name that’s different from their legal one. Registering a trade name helps ensure transparency with the public and makes it easier to handle banking, contracts, and branding.
You need to file a DBA in Colorado if you are:
- Sole Proprietors: If you’re running a business under anything other than your personal first and last name. For example, John Miller selling coffee under the name Rocky Brew Co. would need a DBA.
- LLCs or Corporations: Even if your business is legally registered, you’ll need a DBA if you want to operate under a different division or brand name.
- Freelancers & Small Businesses: If you’re expanding services or running multiple projects, a DBA lets you create distinct names without forming separate entities.
In short, if the name your customers see is different from your legal or registered business name, Colorado requires you to register a trade name.
Step-by-Step Process to File a DBA in Colorado
Filing a DBA (trade name) in Colorado is handled at the state level through the Colorado Secretary of State, making the process simpler than in states where it’s county-based. Here’s how it works:
1. Check Name Availability
Search the Colorado Secretary of State’s business name database to make sure your desired trade name isn’t already in use or too similar to another registered name.
2. File Online with the Secretary of State
All DBA (trade name) filings in Colorado are done online through the Secretary of State’s website. You’ll need to provide your legal business name, the trade name you want to use, your business address, and ownership details.
3. Pay the Filing Fee
The standard filing fee for a trade name in Colorado is $20. You’ll pay this at the time of your online submission.
4. Confirmation of Registration
Once you file and pay, your trade name registration is usually approved immediately. You’ll receive an electronic confirmation and can download a certificate for your records.
5. Renewal Requirements
Colorado DBAs must be renewed annually. The Secretary of State will send email reminders if you provide an email address during filing, but it’s ultimately your responsibility to track renewal deadlines.
Tip: Unlike states such as California, Colorado does not require newspaper publication for DBAs, which makes the process faster and more affordable.
Costs & Timeline of Filing a DBA in Colorado
When filing a DBA (trade name) in Colorado, the process is simple, affordable, and fast since everything is handled online through the Secretary of State. Here’s what you should know:
1. Filing Fee
The cost to file a DBA (trade name) in Colorado is $20. This is a flat fee regardless of business type (sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation).
2. Renewal Fee
DBAs must be renewed every year in Colorado. The renewal fee is $10 and must be paid by the first day of the anniversary month of your original filing. Renewal can typically be completed up to three months before this expiration date.
3. Processing Time
Since all filings are online, registrations are usually processed immediately. You’ll receive confirmation and can download your trade name certificate as soon as payment is completed.
4. Late Fees & Penalties
If you miss your renewal deadline, your DBA will be marked as “delinquent” by the Secretary of State. You can restore it by filing a renewal and paying a reinstatement fee, but failing to renew for too long could result in losing rights to the trade name. The reinstatement fee for a delinquent trade name is typically $10, though it can vary based on the delinquency period.
Quick Note: Colorado’s streamlined online system makes it one of the fastest states to file a DBA, with no mail delays, no in-person trips, and no newspaper publication required.
Renewing or Canceling a DBA in Colorado
In Colorado, a DBA (trade name) must be renewed annually with the Secretary of State to remain active. Renewal is simple. You just log into the Secretary of State’s online system, confirm your business details, and pay the $10 renewal fee. The renewal must be completed by the first day of the anniversary month of your original filing.
If you miss the renewal deadline, your DBA will be listed as “delinquent.” While you can typically restore it, for sole proprietorships and partnerships, failure to renew can lead to cancellation. For LLCs and corporations, the trade name’s status is tied to the business entity’s “Good Standing” with the state.
When you no longer plan to use a DBA, it’s important to officially cancel it. You can do this online by filing a Statement of Abandonment of Trade Name with the Secretary of State for a $10 filing fee. This ensures the name is no longer tied to your business and keeps public records accurate.
Note: For free business advising, training, and local resources to help you through the registration process, connect with the Colorado Small Business Development Center.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a DBA in Colorado
Filing a DBA (trade name) in Colorado is a simple process, but small mistakes can create delays, extra fees, or even cause you to lose the name you want. Here are the most common pitfalls to watch out for:
1. Skipping the Name Search
Not checking the Colorado Secretary of State’s business database before filing can result in rejection if your desired trade name is already in use or too similar to an existing one.
2. Confusing a DBA With Legal Protection
A DBA does not create a separate legal entity or provide liability protection. Many entrepreneurs mistakenly believe filing a trade name shields their personal assets, but only an LLC or corporation can do that.
3. Forgetting Annual Renewal
In Colorado, trade names must be renewed every year by the first day of the anniversary month. Missing the renewal deadline can put your DBA in delinquent status, and failure to fix it may result in cancellation.
4. Entering Incorrect or Incomplete Information
Even small errors, like misspelling your trade name, listing the wrong owner information, or skipping required details, can cause filing issues or force you to resubmit.
5. Not Canceling When You Stop Using It
If you stop using your DBA, you must file a Statement of Abandonment of Trade Name. Forgetting this step keeps your name tied to your business in public records, which can confuse you later.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll keep your DBA filing smooth, compliant, and fully recognized in Colorado.
FAQs About Colorado DBA Filing
Filing a DBA (trade name) in Colorado is fairly simple, but the rules differ from other states. Here are answers to the most common questions:
1. Do I Need a DBA If I Already Have an LLC or Corporation?
Yes. If your business wants to operate under a name different from its official registered name, you’ll need to file a DBA (trade name). For example, “Rocky Mountain Ventures LLC” doing business as “Summit Gear Supply” must register the trade name.
2. Can I File a DBA Online in Colorado?
Yes. All DBA (trade name) filings in Colorado are done online through the Secretary of State’s website. Paper filings are not accepted.
3. How Long Does DBA Approval Take?
Most filings are processed instantly once submitted online, and the fee is paid. You’ll get confirmation by email right away.
4. How Much Does It Cost to File a DBA in Colorado?
The filing fee is $20. Renewals also cost $10 annually.
5. Can Multiple DBAs Be Linked to One Business?
Yes. A single business entity can register multiple trade names, but each must be filed and renewed separately with the state.
6. How Often Do I Need to Renew My DBA?
In Colorado, trade names must be renewed every year, due by the first day of the anniversary month of your original filing. If you miss the deadline, your DBA becomes delinquent and may eventually be canceled.
Final Takeaway
Filing a DBA in Colorado is a quick, low-cost way to operate your business under a different name without forming a new legal entity. Since everything is handled online through the Secretary of State’s website, the process is streamlined compared to other states.
Just remember:
- A DBA in Colorado does not provide liability protection. It’s only about the name.
- Renewals are due every year, so mark your calendar to avoid missing deadlines.
- Always make sure your trade name is unique and accurately reflects your brand.
With the right preparation, a Colorado DBA gives your business flexibility, professionalism, and room to grow without unnecessary paperwork.
