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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the application process take for the mail in option?

As with all our processes we make every effort to handle each and every form timely, due to the high volume of mail this procedure may take 6-8 weeks.

How much is the filing fee for an Original vs Refile? (a refile is not cheaper)

Both are $26.00 for one business name and one registrant; $5.00 for each additional business name and/or each additional registrant.

My mail-in application got rejected and sent back, but I don’t know why?

The reasons are listed on the letter that is attached to your forms that were returned to you.

How can I find a blank form on your website for me to download?

Fictitious Business Name forms received over the counter and through the mail must be submitted using a Kiosk at our headquarters or district office OR using the online website: apps.lavote.net/obfr/bfrmain.aspx .

How can I fill out the application?

Please go to our website, LAVote.net and click on County Clerk/FBN or click on the following link directly. https://apps.lavote.net/obfr/bfrmain.aspx

Can I scan and email you my completed application so you can examine it before I mail it?

The RR/CC does not offer this option as we are committed to serve our customers at the counter, telephone, mail, and Online process. 

Click on the following link to submit Online: https://apps.lavote.net/obfr/bfrmain.aspx

What documents are needed when conducting business as a Corp/LLC?

Owner must sign (corporate officer if corporation; manager or officer if limited liability company; general partner if partnership; trustee if trust).

  • Street address of principal place of business and county must be listed (corporation/limited liability companies must include address as set out in its articles of incorporation on file with the Secretary of State and the state of incorporation/organization).
  • All owners and their business mailing addresses must be listed.
  • Filed copy of statement must be published once per week for four consecutive weeks in an adjudicated newspaper in Los Angeles County (see list of General Circulation Newspapers online or at the County Clerk's office).
  • Publication must begin within 30 days of filing
  • Effective January 1, 2014, pursuant to Senate Bill 1325, the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's Office will require a Notarized Affidavit of Identity form to accompany all Fictitious Business Name Statements (Original, Refile and New).
    • In-Person: Registrants are required to present a completed FBN statement, show valid identification and complete and Affidavit of Identity form.
    • Mail-In: Registrants are required to submit a completed FBN statement, and notarized Affidavit of Identity form.
    • Third Party: Persons presenting FBN statements on behalf of the registrant must show valid identification, and submit the completed notarized Affidavit of Identity and Agent form.
  • If the registrant is a corporation, a limited liability company, a limited partnership, or a limited liability partnership, the county clerk will require a print-out evidence issued by the Secretary of State indication the current existence and good standing of that business entity, no other state evidence will be accepted. This can be obtained by going to the Secretary of State website at www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs
Why do we need the Affidavit of Identity?

Effective January 1, 2014, pursuant to Senate Bill 1325, the LA County Registrar Recorder/County Clerk’s Office requires a Notarized Affidavit of Identity form to accompany all Fictitious Business Name Statements (Original, Refile and New).

Why do documents have to be originals?

The original signifies the registrant declares all the information in the fictitious business statement is true and correct; pursuant to BP 17900-17930

I can’t find the FBN form after submission?

The form is developed once the information is entered into the system upon payment.

When does my FBN expire?

FBN’s expire 5 years from the date of filing.

What are the fees for Notary Oath?

The fee for processing the notary oath and bond is $43 plus $3 for each additional page on the bond.

Are there registration appointments for other locations/Districts?

No, appointments are only available for the Norwalk Office.

What address do I mail my form?

Business Filing & Registration, PO Box 1208, Norwalk CA 90650-1208

Who do I make my check payable to?

Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk

What is an Amendment?

A change in facts; information in the Registered Owner(s) area.

What is an Abandonment?

No longer doing business under the fictitious business name that was filed in the previous 5 years.

What is a Withdrawal?

Remove a registered owner from a fictitious business name statement on file-requires publication.

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