Starting February 2, 2026, the way businesses register trade names (DBAs) in Delaware is changing. All new DBA filings will now be handled by the Delaware Division of Revenue (DOR) via the Delaware One Stop system, moving away from the county-based court filing process used for decades.

This shift is part of Delaware’s broader effort to modernize and streamline business registration, reduce paper-based filings, and create a centralized statewide database. Whether you already have a trade name registered or plan to file a new one in 2026, here’s what you need to know.

Why is Delaware making this change?

For years, businesses registered DBAs through Delaware’s Superior Court Prothonotary Offices, a process that required notarized paper filings at the county level. The new system eliminates outdated steps and brings all filings under one centralized, digital process, managed by the Division of Revenue.

The goal? Consistency, accessibility, and simplification.

What does this mean for your business?

1. Existing Trade Names: No action required (unless you want to update your registration)

If your DBA is already registered through the Delaware Courts, your registration is still valid. You’re not required to do anything. However, if you’d prefer to have your trade name appear in the new Division of Revenue system, you can choose to re-register at no cost.

This optional re-registration requires your original file number from the Courts and a valid Delaware business license. AIL can help you gather what’s needed if you choose to update your registration.

2. New Trade Name Registrations: Must go through Delaware One Stop

As of February 2, 2026, all new trade name filings must be completed online through the Delaware One Stop platform. These applications will now require:

• Legal entity name and address
• Proposed DBA name
• Ownership information (name and address of owners)
• Date of entity formation
• Nature of business

💡 If you're operating in Delaware, you’ll need to have or obtain a valid Delaware business license.
💡 If you’re not operating in Delaware, you can apply for a $25 “Trade Name Only” License, which allows you to register your trade name without triggering other tax obligations or requiring a full business license.

📄 Companies registered in Delaware but not conducting business in the state must provide a Certificate of Good Standing, which American Incorporators can obtain on your behalf.

3. Trade Name Certificates: New issuing authority

Starting February 2, 2026, all official trade name certificates will be issued by the Division of Revenue, not the courts. Pre-existing certificates from the county courts will remain valid but will not be reissued.

Need a new certificate? You’ll need to register or re-register your DBA within the Delaware One Stop system.

How to Prepare Now

If your business will be filing a new DBA or requesting a certificate in early 2026, a little preparation now can help:

✔ Make sure your Delaware business license is active or let us help you apply for a Trade Name Only license if you're not operating in-state

✔ Have your entity information ready (e.g., legal name, ownership details, nature of business)

✔ Reach out to American Incorporators to handle the filing for you, including Certificate of Good Standing requests and full DBA registration support

✔ Let our experts manage the Delaware One Stop process on your behalf

Need Help Navigating the Change?

American Incorporators supports business owners, entrepreneurs, and legal professionals with Delaware filings, compliance, and registration support every day. Whether you're filing a new trade name, maintaining existing records, or updating your documentation, we're here to help you stay compliant, confident, and ready for 2026.

🔗 Contact us today to get started
📞 800-421-2661
✉️ info@ailcorp.com

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