Registering a DBA allows a business to operate under a name different from its legal name. This can be beneficial for branding purposes or when expanding into new business areas.
For example, if you have an LLC called “Beehive State Enterprises LLC” that you use for your general contracting business, but you want to start a separate home renovation service, you could register an DBA or Assumed Name like “Salt Lake City Home Makeovers” without forming a new LLC.
Filing for a DBA provides business owners with flexibility in branding without the need to create separate legal entities for each business venture.
Note that while an Assumed Name allows you to do business under a different name, it doesn’t provide the legal protections that come with forming an LLC or corporation.
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Do You Need a Utah DBA for Your Business Entity?
Before proceeding with the steps to get a DBA in Utah, determine if it’s necessary for your business type:
Sole Proprietors and Partnerships: If you’re operating under a name other than your legal name, you need to register an Assumed Name. For example, if John Smith wants to operate as “Park City Auto Repair,” he needs to register this as an Assumed Name.
LLCs and Corporations: If these entities want to do business under a name different from their registered name, they need an Assumed Name. For instance, if “Beehive State Enterprises LLC” wants to operate as “Salt Lake City Home Makeovers,” they would need to register this Assumed Name.
How to Get a DBA in Utah
Follow these steps to get a DBA in Utah:
- Search the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code database to ensure your desired name is available.
- Check if your DBA is available as a domain name (optional).
- File your Business Name Registration.
- Pay the filing fee.
Step 1: Do a DBA Search in Utah
Your Assumed Name must be unique and comply with Utah’s business name requirements. To check availability, use the Utah Business Name Search:
Ensure your chosen name isn’t already in use and meets state requirements.
Step 2: Check if your name is available as a web domain
While not legally required, it’s wise to check if your Assumed Name is available as a domain name for your future website. You can check domain availability at: godaddy.com/domains
Tips for choosing a domain:
- Aim for a .com domain if possible
- Avoid using hyphens between words
- Sometimes a quirky word (“guru”, “school” or “base”) makes for a good brand/domain.
Step 3: Register your Utah DBA
In Utah, you need to file a Business Name Registration with the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. This can be done online or by mail.
To file online, visit the Utah OneStop Business Registration website: https://secure.utah.gov/osbr-user/user/welcome.html
You’ll need to provide the following information:
- Your desired Assumed Name
- Your business’s legal name and address
- A brief description of the nature of your business
- The names and addresses of the business owners
Step 4: Pay the filing fee
The filing fee for registering an Assumed Name in Utah is $22. This fee can be paid online if you’re filing electronically, or by check if you’re filing by mail.
Utah Assumed Name registrations are valid for three years. You must file a renewal before the expiration date to maintain your registration.
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After You Get a DBA For Your Limited Liability Company or Other Entity
Once you’ve secured your Assumed Name, consider these next steps:
• Create a website: Establish an online presence for your business to reach more customers.
• Set up a business bank account: Keep your personal and business finances separate. We recommend Mercury Bank for online banking, but traditional banks are also an option.
• Obtain necessary licenses and permits: Ensure you have all required licenses and permits to operate legally in Utah.
• Consider business insurance: Protect your business with appropriate insurance coverage.
By following these steps, you’ll have successfully registered your Assumed Name (DBA) in Utah and be well on your way to operating your business under your chosen name.