Fictitious Name Registration
Pennsylvania requires any entity or individual conducting business under a name other than their real/legal name to register a fictitious name with the PA Department of State.
54 Pa.C.S. § 301 et seq.
Notice: Business entity selection and formation involve legal, tax, and liability considerations that vary by situation. This information is provided for educational purposes. Consult with a licensed attorney and tax professional for guidance specific to your business.
Quick Facts
Filing Fee
$70
Renewal Period
10 years from date of filing
Form
DSCB:54-311
Registration Process
Verify the name is available through the PA Department of State business name database
Complete Form DSCB:54-311 (Application for Registration of Fictitious Name)
Pay the $70 filing fee
Advertise the fictitious name registration in a newspaper of general circulation in the county (recommended but not required for all entities)
Registration is effective for 10 years and must be renewed
Penalty for Non-Registration
Operating under an unregistered fictitious name may prevent you from enforcing contracts or bringing legal action in PA courts.
Who Needs to Register?
- Sole proprietors using any name other than their own legal name
- General partnerships (always required)
- LLCs, LPs, and corporations using a trade name different from their registered name
- Any entity conducting business under an assumed name