Fictitious Business Name Info
In the case of a business owned by an individual, a “fictitious business name” is any name that does not include the last name (surname) of the owner, or which implies additional owners (such as “Company,” “and Company,” “and Sons,” “Associates,” etc.)
Examples:
- “Joyce Smith Catering” is not a Fictitious Business Name.
- “Smith and Company Catering” is a Fictitious Business Name.
In the case of a corporation, limited liability company or limited partnership, a fictitious business name is any name other than the exact name that is on record with the Secretary of the State’s Office.
California law requires that FBN’s are filed at the County level; there is no State-wide registry or national registry.
A post office box does not satisfy the requirement of “street address” or “residence address.”
All city names must be spelled out on the Fictitious Business Name Statement.
An FBN statement can be filed online, in-person or by mailing a completed application with payment.
Yes, as long as you bring in a complete application signed (original signature) by the owner/s.
Your filing will expire 30 days from the date you filed and you will have to file again, and pay the fee/s.
No, changes can not be made to the filing including business address, owner’s address or to add an additional owner(s) name(s) changes. These changes are considered a new filing and the same requirements for publishing apply.
A search for a business name can be done through our website.
No, business license/permit is obtained through City Hall where the business is located.
The following types of businesses are required to have a County business license issued by the Clerk of the Board’s office in order to operate in an unincorporated area:
- Peddler
- Solicitor
- Private Patrol
- Taxicab Service
Click here to learn more.
Resale license is obtained through the State Board of Equalization located in the City of Riverside.
You will need to contact the Franchise Tax Board.