Business Certificates

What Is A Business Certificate?

Commonly referred to by the name D.B.A. (doing business as), a business certificate creates a public record of the name and address of the owner(s) of a business. Consumers are entitled to this information as it may not otherwise be readily available.

Who Must File A Business Certificate?

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 110 sections 5 & 6 state that any person conducting business in the Commonwealth under any title other than the real name of the person conducting the business must file a certificate.

A business certificate is not required if a corporation is doing business in its true corporate name, or if a partnership is doing business under any title which includes the true surname of any partner. Certain other associations and partnerships may also be exempt. Refer to the following web site for more information:
http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXV/Chapter110
http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXV/Chapter110/Section6

How Do I File Or Renew A Business Certificate?

Forms are available in the Town Clerk's Office. Each person named on the certificate must sign the form in person at the Town Clerk's Office. Proper identification is required. The filing fee is $20.00 for a new filing and $20.00 to renew for an additional 4 years. The Business Certificate is not a license.