Fictitious Business Names
The County Clerk is responsible for determining the acceptability, not the legal sufficiency of documents presented for filing. Questions regarding the legal sufficiency of any document should be referred to an attorney.
A fictitious business name shall be filed within 40 days of first transacting business. Once registered, it is effective for 5 years. The fictitious business name will need to be re-registered prior to the date of expiration, or if there are changes to the filed statement; except the change of a residence address.
Once the FBN has been filed, the application MUST be published in an adjudicated newspaper one day per week for four (4) consecutive weeks. Publication must start within 45 days of filing the statement with the County Clerk’s office.
Publishers: Click here to view our Proof of Publication Quick Reference sheet.
Check the Fictitious Business Name index to determine if the selected name is a business name that is the same or is similar to one already on file. Please contact us at (855) REC-CLRK or (855) 732-2575 if you have questions.
Complete Business and Professions Code
How to obtain this service…
Step 1: Complete Online Application
Complete the online application by selecting the appropriate statement you wish to file below.
***Please notate the confirmation code after submitting your application.
Step 2: Wait 10 Business Days for Processing
Filings are processed within 10 business days from the day you apply. Please expect a copy of your filing and receipt via email once it has been processed.
*Duplicate submissions will delay the overall processing time and are not eligible for a refund.
Step 1: Complete FBN Statement Application
Select the statement(s) below you intend to file by mail.
Step 2: Mail Us the Completed Statement(s) with Payment
Mail the completed form and appropriate fees to our office for processing.
FBN Filing: $55
Additional FBN or registrant name: $5
Abandonment of FBN: $55
Statement of Withdrawal from Partnership: $55
Address:
County Clerk
222 W. Hospitality Lane
San Bernardino, CA 92415-0022
*Checks or money orders only. Must be made payable to the San Bernardino County Recorder-Clerk.
*Appointments are strongly encouraged and prioritized.
Step 1: Complete Online Application
Complete the online application by selecting the appropriate statement you wish to file below.
*Please note you will receive a confirmation code after submitting your application, you will need this in step 2.
Step 2: Visit one of our offices.
Now that you have completed your application and booked your appointment, wait for the day of your appointment for your statement to be processed.
FBN Filing: $55
Additional FBN or registrant name: $5
Abandonment of FBN: $55
Statement of Withdrawal from Partnership: $55
Legal Advice Limitation
The office of the Assessor-Recorder-Clerk is prohibited from giving legal advice.