If you are naming a Sole Proprietorship something other than your real name, what must you file?

When a sole proprietorship operates under a name that is different from the owner's legal name, it is required to file a Certificate of Assumed Name, often referred to as a "Doing Business As" (DBA) certificate. This filing is essential as it provides legal recognition to the business name and ensures that consumers can identify the sole proprietor behind the business.

Filing this certificate serves multiple purposes, including enhancing transparency in business transactions and protecting consumers by preventing fraud. It also helps in establishing a brand and can be important for banking purposes, as many banks will only open a business account under the name registered with the Certificate of Assumed Name.

Other options, such as obtaining a Business License or a Corporate Charter, do not pertain specifically to sole proprietorships operating under an assumed name. A business license might be required for regulatory compliance depending on the business's nature and location, but it does not replace the need for the Certificate of Assumed Name. A Corporate Charter, on the other hand, is specific to corporations and does not apply to sole proprietorships. Lastly, saying no filings are required overlooks the legal obligation of registering an assumed name, which is crucial for the legitimacy of the business.