I run a small handmade soap and candle operation as a single-member LLC. I sell at farmers markets under one name but also want to launch a separate website for corporate gift boxes under a completely different brand. Can the same LLC legally operate under multiple business names, or do I need to form separate entities? I'm in Ohio if that matters. Any guidance on registering DBAs and keeping things clean would be great.
LLC DBA
Can one LLC operate under several different business names?
Yes, one LLC can operate under multiple names. Those are usually filed as trade names or fictitious business names at the county or state level. In Ohio you register a trade name with the Secretary of State if the LLC is using it. Each name may need its own registration depending on where you're selling. The LLC itself stays the same legal entity, so liability and taxes flow through it.
Ohio has a trade name registration process at the county level for sole proprietors and general partnerships, but LLCs file at the state level. You'll want to check the Secretary of State's business search first to make sure the names are available. Keep the trade name filings updated and make sure your bank and insurance know both names are linked to the same LLC.
how does this work for taxes? do you file one return or one per name?
One return for the LLC. The DBA names aren't separate taxpayers. You just report all revenue under the LLC's EIN. But if you use separate bank accounts for each name it makes bookkeeping easier.
Something to watch out for: some cities and counties require a separate vendor's license or transient vendor permit per business name, even if it's the same LLC. I ran into that with my photography LLC when I added a second brand for event rentals. The state trade name filing was fine, but the local permits were a headache.
I've done this with my farm LLC. We sell produce under one name and value-added products under another. Just make sure your contracts and invoices clearly show the LLC as the legal entity behind each trade name—something like "XYZ Farms LLC dba [Trade Name]." That helps if you ever need to enforce a contract or deal with a dispute.
Do you need to register a DBA if you're just using a different name on a website and not on printed materials or a storefront?
Short answer: yes, if you're conducting business under that name. Website alone still counts as transacting business under the name in most states. But enforcement varies. Better to file than risk a fine or a contract issue later.
Also worth checking your LLC's operating agreement. Some templates restrict adding new trade names without member approval. Probably not an issue for a single-member LLC, but if you ever bring in a partner it matters. And keep a separate schedule of all trade names attached to the agreement so it's clear they're assets of the LLC.
makes sense. thanks.