What Is a DBA and How Do I File One in Contra Costa County? (2026)
Updated: Nov 2
Quick answer: A DBA ("doing business as"), called a Fictitious Business Name in California, lets you use a business name that is not your legal name. In Contra Costa County it is filed with the County Clerk-Recorder, then published in a local newspaper once a week for 4 weeks, and it must be renewed every 5 years.
Hi, I'm Karla. Say your name is María López and you want to call your cleaning business "Sparkle Home Cleaning." That name needs a DBA. Here is what the county requires.
The steps to file a DBA in Contra Costa County
Make sure the name is available. The name should not already be in use in the county's Fictitious Business Name records.
File the Fictitious Business Name Statement. It is filed with the Clerk-Recorder in the county where your main place of business is.
Pay the county filing fee. The amount depends on how many owners and names are listed.
Publish it in a newspaper. It must run in a newspaper in the county, once a week for 4 weeks, starting within 45 days of filing.
File the proof of publication. The newspaper's affidavit of publication completes the record.
Renew every 5 years. Your DBA expires every 5 years, or sooner if your details change.
Quick FAQ
Does a DBA protect my personal assets?
No. A DBA is only a name. For liability protection you need an entity like an LLC or corporation.
My LLC uses a different name. Do I need a DBA?
Yes. If your LLC does business under any name other than its exact registered name, it needs a DBA.
When do I have to file?
California law says within 40 days of starting to do business under the name.
What I do for you
Check your name. I confirm the name is available before anything is filed.
Prepare and file your statement. I complete your Fictitious Business Name Statement and coordinate the newspaper publication.
Track your renewal. Your 5-year renewal date goes on a calendar with a reminder.
Let's do it together
Want your business name registered the right way the first time? I offer a free first consultation in English or Spanish, remote or in person, for small businesses in the Concord, CA area, serving Contra Costa, Alameda and San Francisco counties.
Karla I. Vasquez · KCK Professional Services by Karla
510-998-7004 · kckprofessionalservices@gmail.com · kckproservices.com
Sources: Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder, Fictitious Business Names; California Business and Professions Code. Information current as of November 2026.
This article is general information to help you understand the process. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Karla I. Vasquez and KCK Professional Services are not attorneys, CPAs or tax advisors and are not a law firm. Fees, forms and rules change, so always confirm with the official agency before you file. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney or tax professional.
Comments