Trade name

A trade name, trading name, or business name is a pseudonym frequently used by companies to operate under a name different from their registered, legal name. The term for this type of alternative name is a 'fictitious' business name. Registering the fictitious name with the relevant government body is often required. A trade name, trading name, or business name is a pseudonym frequently used by companies to operate under a name different from their registered, legal name. The term for this type of alternative name is a 'fictitious' business name. Registering the fictitious name with the 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, among others, such as assumed business name. In Canada, 'operating as' (abbreviated to o/a) and 'trading as' (abbreviated to T/A) are used, although 'doing business as' is also sometimes used.