How Delaware Trade Name Registrations (DBA) Work Under the New System
Delaware has completed its transition to a centralized, statewide process for registering and maintaining trade names, commonly referred to as DBAs. As of February 2, 2026, trade name filings are no longer handled at the county level and are now administered through a single online system managed by the Delaware Division of Revenue.
This change affects how new trade names are registered, how existing trade names are reflected in state records, and how official documentation is issued.
State-Level Registration Through the One Stop Portal
Under the new process, all trade name registrations are handled at the state level through the Division of Revenue’s One Stop portal. The prior county-based filing system, which required registrations with individual Prothonotary offices, is no longer used for new filings.
The statewide system provides:
- One centralized registry for all Delaware trade names
- Digital filing and record maintenance
- Uniform processing regardless of county
Treatment of Trade Names Registered Before the Transition
Trade names that were registered with the Delaware courts prior to the system change remain valid. Entities are not required to re-register existing court-filed trade names in order for them to continue to exist.
If an entity chooses to have an existing trade name appear in the Division of Revenue’s Trade Name Registry, it may do so by re-registering through the One Stop portal at no cost. This optional re-registration requires entry of the original court file number and a valid Delaware business license.
Business License Requirement for Trade Name Filings
The state requires a valid Delaware business license in order to register a trade name under the new system.
- Businesses actively operating in Delaware may use their standard Delaware business license
- Entities that are not otherwise required to hold a Delaware business license may apply for a Trade Name Only License for the purpose of trade name registration
This requirement applies to both new trade name registrations and optional re-registrations of existing court-filed names.
Filing Fees and Administrative Processing
The state filing fee to register a trade name under the new system is $25 per DBA.
Following the February 2, 2026 launch, Delaware indicated that a transition period may apply during which certain existing trade names could be re-registered without a fee if completed within the applicable window. Businesses are responsible for monitoring state guidance related to any transition allowances.
Trade Name Certificates Issued by the State
Under the new process, Trade Name Certificates are issued exclusively by the Delaware Division of Revenue. Certificates previously issued by county courts are no longer reissued.
If a business requires a Trade Name Certificate issued by the Division of Revenue, the trade name must appear in the state registry. If a trade name exists only in court records, the entity may complete the optional re-registration process through the One Stop portal and then request issuance of the certificate.
General Administrative Considerations
Businesses maintaining or registering trade names in Delaware should be aware of the following administrative conditions under the new system:
- All new trade name registrations are processed at the state level
- Existing court-registered trade names remain valid
- A Delaware business license is required for trade name registration
- Certificates are issued only for trade names reflected in the state registry
How Accumera Can Assist
Accumera works with business owners, CPAs, Attorneys, and professional firms nationwide to manage state compliance requirements efficiently and accurately. Our team can assist with Delaware trade name filings, licensing needs, re-registrations, and ongoing compliance coordination.
Need help navigating Delaware’s new DBA system?
Call: 888-467-1289
Email: info@accumera.com
Contact: https://accumera.com/contact-us/
Important Notice
Accumera does not provide legal or tax advice. The information above is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects Accumera’s experience filing business and licensing documents with Delaware and other state agencies. Businesses should consult qualified legal or tax professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
