How to File a DBA in Vermont

What is a DBA in Vermont?

If a business wants to operate under a different name than the one used to form the business, it may have to register the alternate name. This is called an assumed business name in Vermont, but is also commonly known as a DBA, trade name, or fictitious name.

Here’s how it works: If Smokie’s Burgers LLC wants to do business as only "Smokie’s Burgers ‘N More," then the owners have to file a DBA with the Vermont Secretary of State. This registration allows the business to legally operate under the new name while maintaining its original business structure.

In Vermont, a DBA serves several important functions:

• Allows businesses to operate under a name different from their legal entity or personal name
• Enables companies to open bank accounts under the assumed business name
• Permits businesses to enter contracts using the DBA name
• Provides legal recognition for marketing and operational purposes

Who needs to file a DBA in Vermont?

Under Vermont law, any individual or business who wants to operate under a different name needs to file a DBA. This includes the following:

• Sole proprietorships operating under any name other than the owner's legal name
• General partnerships using a name that doesn't include all partners' surnames
• Limited partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies (LLCs) that want to conduct business under a name different from their registered name with the Secretary of State

Filing for a DBA allows these entities to open bank accounts, enter contracts, and otherwise operate with the new name while maintaining compliance with Vermont business regulations.

How to file a DBA in Vermont: Step-by-step

Follow these steps to properly file a DBA in the Green Mountain State.

Step 1: Review Vermont naming rules

Vermont has specific rules for DBA names. Filers should review these rules to ensure compliance before submitting their application. Vermont assumed business names:

• Must be distinguishable, meaning that it can’t be too similar to another registered business name
• Cannot include the terms "Company," "Corporation," "Incorporated," or "Limited," or any abbreviation thereof
• Cannot be misleading or suggest activities not permitted under the business' purpose
• Cannot imply government affiliation or endorsement

These rules can be found in detail on the Vermont Secretary of State’s website and should be carefully reviewed before proceeding with your DBA filing.

Step 2: Search for name availability

The first step in the DBA filing process is to search the Vermont Secretary of State's Business Search database to see if the name you want to use is available or not. Businesses that show a status of “Inactive Expired,” “Dissolved,” “Withdrawn,” “Canceled,” “Merged,” or “Converted” no longer have the rights to their business names, so these names are likely up for grabs.

It’s also a good idea to search for state and federal trademarks to ensure that your desired name isn’t already protected by another business. You can search the Vermont Trademark Search database and the US Patent and Trademark Office’s federal database.

Step 3: Prepare the required information

Once you confirm that your desired assumed business name is available, it’s time to file. When filing your Vermont DBA, you will need to provide the following information:

• Proposed assumed business name (your desired DBA)
• Principal office address and mailing address
• Purpose of the business (description of business activities)
• Name of the owner (person or company)
• Name, email address, and mailing address of the agent for service of process (also known as a registered agent) (for nonresidents only)
• Appropriate signature from the business owner or authorized representative

Step 4: File with the Vermont Secretary of State

You can file your assumed business name registration online or by mail. 

Filing online is the fastest and most straightforward option. Create or sign into your account with the Vermont Business Services Division. Once signed in, you can file your assumed business name online. 

To file by mail, you must submit a forms request with the Business Services Division. Enter your name, email, your business ID (if applicable), and the name of the form you’re requesting (in this case, it would be “assumed business name registration form.” Click “Submit.” You will then receive an email from the Business Services Division with the copy of the form, which you can download, print, and mail.

Step 5: Pay the filing fee

Submit the required filing fee along with your DBA application. As of 2025, a Vermont DBA costs $70. 

Step 6: Receive confirmation and start using your DBA

Once your application is processed and approved, you'll receive confirmation from the Vermont Secretary of State. At this point, you can legally begin operating under your registered assumed name. Keep your confirmation documentation for your business records, as you may need it when opening bank accounts or conducting other business activities.

Vermont DBA renewals and compliance

Below, you’ll find more details about maintaining your Vermont DBA.

Renewal requirements

Vermont DBA registrations must be renewed every five years. Business owners can reregister with the Secretary of State online or by mail (following the same methods as described above) within 60 days of the expiration date. The filing fee for an assumed business name renewal is $65.

Ongoing compliance

After filing your DBA in Vermont, maintain compliance by:

• Keeping accurate records of your assumed name registration
• Updating your registration if business information changes
• Notifying the Secretary of State if you discontinue use of the trade name

Tax and legal considerations

A DBA name doesn't change how your company is taxed. Your business will continue to be taxed according to its underlying business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, LLC). The DBA is purely a name registration and does not alter your business entity type or tax obligations.

For specific tax implications related to your Vermont business, consult with a qualified tax professional who is familiar with Vermont business tax requirements.

What to do after filing a DBA in Vermont

Once your Vermont DBA is approved, take these important next steps:

• Business banking. Open a business bank account using your registered trade name. You’ll likely need to provide your DBA confirmation to the bank as proof of name registration.
• Legal and operational updates. Update business licenses and permits to reflect your trade name. Notify vendors, suppliers, and business partners of your DBA and ensure that contracts and agreements properly reference your assumed name.
• Branding. Update marketing materials, signage, business cards, and your online presence. 
• Recordkeeping. Maintain copies of your DBA registration, and keep records of when your DBA was filed and any renewal requirements.

How LegalZoom can help you get a DBA in Vermont

For comprehensive assistance with your Vermont DBA filing, LegalZoom offers DBA registration services to help ensure your application is completed correctly and efficiently. We’ll help you with your preliminary name search and file the paperwork for you. Our premium plan also includes hands-on guidance from a business attorney for 30 days.