Delaware trade name registration is moving: here’s what businesses need to know

Moldova

Starting February 2, 2026, Delaware is officially transitioning its trade name (DBA) registration process from the Delaware Courts to the Delaware Division of Revenue (DOR). From that date forward, all new trade name filings will be completed online through the Delaware One Stop system. The centralized system is designed to simplify and modernize the experience for businesses across the state. 

This shift is part of Delaware’s broader effort to streamline business registrations, eliminate outdated procedures, and consolidate records into a single statewide registry. Whether you're an existing DBA holder or planning to register a new trade name, here’s what this change means for you. 

Why the change? 

For years, DBA registrations in Delaware were handled at the county level through the Superior Court Prothonotary Offices. This system involved paper forms, notarization, and often multiple filings depending on where a business operated. 

Starting in 2026, the process will become a digital, statewide process, with filings managed exclusively by the Division of Revenue through Delaware One Stop. Digital record-keeping and elimination of notarization requirements means the business will be more consistent and accessible for businesses. 

What businesses need to know 

What you need to do depends on whether you have an existing trade name or are registering a new trade name. 

1. Existing trade names: no action required 

If your trade name is already registered through the Delaware Courts, your registration remains valid. It will continue to appear in the Courts’ records and will be listed alongside new filings within the DOR system. No immediate re-registration is necessary, but businesses can opt for re-registration if they wish. 

2. New trade name registrations: must go through Delaware One Stop 

As of February 2, 2026, all new DBA applications must be filed online through Delaware One Stop and require an active Delaware business license. 

To register a new trade name, businesses will need to provide the following information: 

  • Legal entity name and address 

  • Proposed DBA name 

  • Ownership details (names and addresses) 

  • Date of formation 

  • Nature of business 

3. Optional, no-cost re-registration for existing DBA holders 

If you already have a DBA and would prefer your existing trade name to appear directly in the new DOR registry, you can optionally re-register for free using a Courts-issued file number associated with your original registration, and a valid Delaware business license. 

4. Trade name certificates will only be issued by DOR 

From February 1, 2026, onwards, only the Division of Revenue will issue official trade name certificates. Pre-existing county-court issued certificates will not be reissued, so businesses that need updated certification should re-register within the new system.  

5. New options for non-operating or out-of-state entities 

If your business does not operate in Delaware but needs a Delaware trade name, for example, for banking or contractual purposes, you can get a $25 “Trade Name Only” License. This provides a way to register a trade name without triggering other tax obligations or requiring a standard Delaware business license. Out-of-state entities will also need to provide a Certificate of Good Standing when registering. 

You can find out more about the changes and how this will affect your business at https://onestop.delaware.gov. 

How to prepare for the Delaware trade name changes 

Businesses, especially those planning to file new DBAs early in 2026, should take a few proactive steps to prepare themselves for DBA registration updates: 

  • Create or confirm access to a Delaware One Stop account. 

  • Ensure your Delaware business license is active (or apply for a Trade Name Only License if not doing business in-state). 

  • Gather required entity information ahead of time to make the process quick and smooth. 

While existing DBAs require no immediate action, staying informed ensures you’re prepared should you need to request certificates or update your registration.  

Computershare Entity Solutions can support you during this change and make sure your business is ready. To learn more about our services and how we can help, contact our team today. 

Disclaimer: Information provided on this page is not legal or financial advice. Consult an attorney and/or financial professional for legal or financial matters.

Pat Cichocki