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If you search for a Tennessee DBA, expect a different word. The Secretary of State's business FAQ says Tennessee does not recognize "DBAs" (doing business as) or fictitious names. It uses assumed names instead. The filing is made with the Secretary of State's Division of Business Services.
What is an assumed name in Tennessee?
The FAQ defines it as a name other than the true entity name under which an entity conducts business. It is good for five years and can be renewed. The page we read describes this registration for entities, such as an LLC that wants to trade under a shorter or different name. We did not read a rule for sole proprietors or general partnerships, so ask the Division of Business Services before you file for one.
Your LLC name and an assumed name are separate records. The LLC name comes from the Articles of Organization, form SS-4270, which has a $300 minimum fee. See our Tennessee LLC guide for that step.
Which forms and fees apply?
The forms and fees page lists these assumed name forms:
| Form | What it does | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| SS-4402 | Application for Registration of Assumed Name | $20 |
| SS-4481 | Application for Renewal of Registration of Assumed Name | $20 |
| SS-4405 | Application for Cancellation of Assumed Name | $20 |
| SS-4403 | Application for Change of Assumed Name | $20 |
Note the five-year mark in your calendar when you file. The pages we read do not say what happens to a name once the term runs out, so renew on time and ask the office if you are not sure. Keep the receipt or approval letter with your company records, because banks and landlords often ask which name is registered to whom.
Does a conflict put the registration at risk?
The FAQ lists reasons the state can dissolve an entity administratively. One applies to foreign entities: failing to maintain an assumed name after a name conflict. Another applies to every entity: failing to file an annual report or having no registered agent. Our Tennessee registered agent guide covers the agent side.
How do you search Tennessee records for an assumed name?
The Business Information Search is free to use, and you can view and print records at no charge. The tool offers Starts With, Contains and Exact matching, and an option for active entities only. Its result columns include a control number, the name, other names, type, status, city, where the entity was formed and a date.
The "other names" column is the closest thing we read to an assumed name field. We did not confirm that it lists every assumed name, so treat the result as a clue and not proof. Our DBA search guide shows how to cross-check names. To compare with a neighboring state, see Kentucky DBA.
Should you use an assumed name or form an LLC?
An assumed name changes how you trade. It does not make a new legal person. Read DBA vs LLC to see how the two differ, and how to file a DBA for the general steps most states follow. Taxes and local licenses are in the Tennessee business license guide.
This page does not cover county records, city rules, trademark filings or the assumed name rules for sole proprietors.