For many, the process of complying with the various state regulations and requirements can be confusing. One such requirement is registering your business name. All business names that do not identify the business owner, except incorporations, must register their business name with the Secretary of State. For example, Jane Doe, Interior Decorator , does not need to be registered. However, Water Color Concepts does need to be registered.
Business owners can choose to register their business with a fictitious name or a trade name.
The most popular choice of small business owners is the trade name. It is this right to exclusive use which appeals to small business owners.