Business Services

Fictitious Business Names (FBN)

 

FBN Search Online | FBN Search in Person or by Mail | FBN How to Register or Renew a Name | Applicable Fees

 

Few things are as important to a business as its name. It is the way customers find the business. Filing a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) Statement creates an accurate, easy-to-find record of who is responsible for the conduct of the business located in San Mateo County. A Fictitious Business Name Statement is not required if the business name also contains the legal name of the owner, because the legal name of the owner is a clear way of distinguishing the business from others.

 

The following information describes the requirements for those who must file Fictitious Business Name Statements:

 

• When must I file a Fictitious Business Name Statement?
  You can file before you make your first transaction. In any case you must file within 40 days of making your first transaction.
   
• Is a Fictitious Business Name Statement good forever?
  No. You must update it every five years, even if no information about your business has changed.
   
• Where do I file and/or to whom is the check written?
  Fictitious Business Name Statements must be filed with the County Clerk in which the registrant has his or her principal place of business.  If filing in San Mateo County please write the check to the San Mateo County Clerk.
   
• May I have more than one Fictitious Business Name Statement on file?
  Yes. You may have as many Fictitious Business Name Statements on file as you have separate businesses. Also, there may be more than one registrant listed on your Fictitious Business Name Statement.
   
• Does filing a Fictitious Business Name Statement automatically guarantee that no other business is using my name?
  No, it does not reserve the name for your exclusive use. The filing is for consumer protection, and is under requirement under law. Applicants, not the county, are responsible for verifying that the business name used is unique. The applicant also is responsible for verifying that the name does not violate any trademark protocols. The County Clerk's office will search Fictitious Business Name Statements on file for a fee (see below).

The Fictitious Business Name filing process requires that the applicant advertise the name in a newspaper of general circulation within 30 days of the filing date. County staff have information about qualified newspapers and can assist applicants with this step.

 

Business Resources

 

Secretary of State
US Small Business Administration
Environmental Protection Agency
Samceda, The Voice of Business on the Peninsula
Federal Trade Commission
Securities & Exchange Commission