Before using an assumed name in business, which authority must be notified?

• A. Notify the IRS
• B. File with the bank regulator
• C. Publish a notice in a local newspaper
• D. Notify the commissioner prior to using the assumed name

Answer: (D)

Notifying the state insurance regulator before using an assumed name is required to keep clear, official records of who is conducting insurance business and to protect consumers from confusion or misrepresentation. The insurance commissioner oversees licensing and the entities doing business under any name, so you must obtain written notice and approval before using the assumed name. This ensures the regulator can associate the business activities with the correct legal entity and address any conflicts or issues in advertising, policies, and financial dealings.

The other options don’t fit this specific regulatory requirement: the IRS is about taxes, not DBA registrations; the bank regulator isn’t relevant to announcing an assumed business name; and while publication in a local newspaper may be required in some contexts or states, the stated rule here emphasizes notifying the commissioner before using the name. Operating under an assumed name without this notice can lead to penalties or other disciplinary actions.