In accordance with MGL 110:5, any person conducting a business under a name other than their own name is required to file a Business Certificate with the Town Clerk’s Office to register the business at the address where such business is to be conducted (“doing business as” or “d/b/a” certificate).
All persons who will be principals of the business must appear together in person to file the certificate, or the certificate may be completed elsewhere in the presence in the presence of a Notary Public who must witness the signature of all parties.
The d/b/a is maintained in the Town Clerk’s Office and allows the public to identify and locate the owner(s). In Stoneham, the cost for the Business Certificate is $40.00; it is valid for four years from the date of issuance and renewable every four years.
Most financial institutions require a copy of the Business Certificate prior to opening a business banking account.
For information regarding the process of incorporating your business, contact the Corporations Division at 617-727-9640 or navigate through the Corporations Division website for general information or complete a request form here.
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