Q: Can an individual get a DBA/AN or is this only for businesses? If so, what paperwork is necessary? Thank you!
I would very much like to get official paperwork for an Assumed Name, but everything that I read online says that Assumed Names and / or DBA’s are for the names of a business rather than for just an individual. I've asked two lawyers, two businesses, and a city clerk, and so far, no one has gotten back to me. Do you have thoughts on how I might be able to move forward with setting this up for myself? Thank you so very much, and I hope all is well!
A:
If you are using the assumed name as an individual, that means you are operating as a sole proprietor. You can register the name of your sole proprietor business at the county level. Here is a link with some info:
https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_61343_35413_60640-120017--,00.html
You should call your county clerk or visit its website to find out the procedure for registering in that county. Once you are registered, if you also want to add an assumed name or d/b/a, the local county clerk's office should have info on how to do that as well.
It is important to know, operating as a sole proprietor is rarely advisable, as doing so means you will be personally accountable for any debts or liabilities incurred by your company.
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