Fictitious Business Name Info – San Bernardino County Assessor

Who must file an FBN Statement and why?

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.

Can I use a P.O. Box for an Address?

A post office box does not satisfy the requirement of “street address” or “residence address.”

Can I abbreviate my city’s name?

All city names must be spelled out on the Fictitious Business Name Statement.

How do I go about filing an FBN statement?

An FBN statement can be filed online, in-person or by mailing a completed application with payment.

Can I come in and file for someone else?

Yes, as long as you bring in a complete application signed (original signature) by the owner/s.

What happens if I don’t publish in an adjudicated newspaper of general publication?

Your filing will expire 30 days from the date you filed and you will have to file again, and pay the fee/s.

Am I able to make any changes to my FBN after I file?

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.

How do I search a business name that may have been filed?

A search for a business name can be done through our website.

Is this where I come and get my license?

No, business license/permit is obtained through City Hall where the business is located.

My business is located in an unincorporated area, do I need a business license?

As of 2025, the San Bernardino County Clerk of the Board no longer issues licenses for businesses operating in the unincorporated area of the County. Businesses operating within an incorporated city should contact that city for specific licensing requirements. Note: San Bernardino County does not issue a business license that covers the entire County. For additional information and contacts: https://cob.sbcounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/71/County-Business-Information.pdf

Where can I get my resale license?

Resale license is obtained through the State Board of Equalization located in the City of Riverside.

Where do I get my employee Tax ID number?

You will need to contact the Franchise Tax Board.