What is defined as a business name other than the legal name of a person doing business?

A trade name refers to the name under which a business operates that is different from the legal name of the individual or entity that owns the business. It is often employed for marketing purposes, allowing a company to establish a brand identity that resonates with consumers. For example, a business owned by John Smith might operate under the trade name "Smith's Custom Furniture," while the legal name remains John Smith.

Trade names are commonly associated with the process of branding and are distinct from legal names, which are the registered names for legal entities. While fictitious names are sometimes used interchangeably with trade names, they specifically refer to names that create the impression of a different entity than the one that is legally registered. On the other hand, business registration is a process involving formally documenting a business's existence, typically required to operate legally.

Understanding the distinction between these terms is vital in recognizing how businesses promote themselves and the legal implications of their operations. A trade name serves as an essential tool for branding, appealing to customers, and conducting business under a more memorable or descriptive name.