A trade name is a name, other than the true name, of an entity or individual under which the entity or individual is authorized to transact business or conduct activities. Sometimes a trade name is referred to as a “doing business as” or “DBA” name
A business (other than a nonprofit entity) or an individual transacting business in the state of Colorado under a name other than the person’s true name is required to file a trade name with the Secretary of State’s Office.
A nonprofit entity may, but is not required to, file a statement of trade name for any name other than its true name under which it does business.
A trade name provides notice that you are using that trade name, but does not prevent anyone else from using the same name. It is not required to be distinguishable from any other trade name or any other name that is on record with the Secretary of State. Any trade name may be registered, even if it is similar to or exactly the same as another name that is in the records. However, name protection exists under common law and federal trademark law.
A trade name for a reporting entity is effective as long as the entity remains in Good Standing. A trade name for an individual or a non-reporting entity is effective for approximately one year.