New York DBA (Doing Business As) Guide (2026)
In New York, sole proprietors and general partnerships file a Business Certificate with the County Clerk of each county where business is transacted (General Business Law Sec. 130). The certificate must be notarized. Fees vary by county -- typically $25-$35 upstate and around $100 in the five NYC boroughs -- and certified copies cost extra.
The one thing to knowThe certificate must be notarized, and banks usually require one or two certified copies, which cost extra.
The process
- File in each county of business
File a Business Certificate with the County Clerk of each county where business is transacted (General Business Law Sec. 130).
- Notarize the certificate
The certificate must be notarized.
- Pay the fee
Fees vary by county -- typically $25-$35 upstate and around $100 in the five NYC boroughs.
- Buy certified copies
Certified copies cost extra; banks usually require one or two.
DBA filing by county — all 62 New York counties
New York-specific details
LLCs and corporations don't file with the county -- they file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the NY Department of State.
What to bring
- Your business name
- Owner information
- A notary or a notarized certificate
- The filing fee (typically $25-$35 upstate, ~$100 in NYC boroughs)
- Extra funds for certified copies
Frequently asked questions
What is a DBA called in New York?
A Business Certificate, filed with the County Clerk (General Business Law Sec. 130).
Who files with the county?
Sole proprietors and general partnerships, in each county where business is transacted.
Does it need to be notarized?
Yes. The certificate must be notarized.
How much does it cost?
Fees vary by county -- typically $25-$35 upstate and around $100 in the five NYC boroughs. Certified copies cost extra.
Do I need certified copies?
Usually. Banks typically require one or two, and they cost extra.
What about LLCs and corporations?
They file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the NY Department of State instead of the county.