This is for the LLC experts out there. If you have multiple online stores, are they each considered a "division" of the LLC? I'm assuming this is the case, but I can't get any firm answers on this. Merchant service providers want a separate account per online store -- at least, some of them do. The bank doesn't care about multiple accounts, but wants a DBA per online store.

I'd like to form an LLC. Just trying to figure out how to do this if I have multiple stores and/or money-making entities under the same umbrella.

Thanks!
j

Hey mcsmiths. I run 3 businesses under the umbrella of Martini**t LLC, and have just filed the DBA's with the state. From what I understand, there is really no differentiation or separate divisions--just a different operating name for the same company.
Hope this helps.

So you've filed 4 different DBAs? One for the LLC name and three for each of the operating "names".

Thanks bunches!

Hey mcsmiths.
The LLC was formed as "Marti**art LLC" and each time I required a new name, I filed a DBA for each additional name. You dont have to file a DBA for the name of the LLC as it's assumed that you are doing business under the name filed.
I hope that makes sense.

Yep! Thank you VERY much. Very helpful.

My pleasure...

my accountant friend once told me as i had the chance to pick his brain, is to have separate entities for multiple companies in the chance that if one of your companies gets sued, the liablility stops at that one company, and doesn't harm the other companies you have, as they are not under one entity umbrella ... he was talking about incorporating, so i'm not sure this would apply to llc's aswell.

Blue is exactly correct. Remember the main reason for an LLC is for Asset protection. If you are involved in a lawsuit and your LLC is sued and you lost, the plaintiff would have access to the entire assets under your LLC, if needed. With that said most people I know tend to leave like items under one LLC. However, I have heard of people also having seperate LLC's for each item. One thing about business, most likely you can count on a law suit. However, if you are conducting fair and ethical business practices, you help negate someone winning a judgement against you.