Trade name

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A trade name, trading name, or business name is a pseudonym used by companies that do not operate under their registered company name.^[1] The term for this type of alternative name is a fictitious business name.^[1] Registering the fictitious name with a relevant government body is often required.

In a number of countries, the phrase "trading as" (abbreviated to t/a) is used to designate a trade name. In the United States, the phrase "doing business as" (abbreviated to DBA, dba, d.b.a., or d/b/a) is used,^[1][2] among others, such as assumed business name^[3] or fictitious business name.^[4] In Canada, "operating as" (abbreviated to o/a) and "trading as" are used, although "doing business as" is also sometimes used.^[5]

A company typically uses a trade name to conduct business using a simpler name rather than using their formal and often lengthier name. Trade names are also used when a preferred name cannot be registered, often because it may already be registered or is too similar to a name that is already registered.