How to Conduct a Utah Business Entity Search

At last count, Utah had approximately 126,644 registered businesses within the state. That figure grows by 8.4% annually. WalletHub ranked Utah as the 3rd best state to start a business in 2025 due to talented workers and access to capital.

Utah's economy is strong, and its business climate is consistently ranked high due to its business-friendly legal environment, a stable state government, and a young, highly educated workforce. The state has a high number of small businesses, with technology, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and tourism as its most prominent industries. It also has a low unemployment rate and a significant amount of venture capital investment.

Registering a business in Utah offers many advantages, such as low costs, a business-friendly environment, and legal protections. The state provides a fast and easy-to-use online system for registration, affordable filing and renewal fees, and a fiscally sound government that supports entrepreneurs. These benefits include personal liability protection, pass-through taxation options, and a supportive ecosystem for growth.

Allowable Entity Types in Utah

Utah allows several different business entity types, including Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships (General and Limited), Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), and Corporations. Corporations can be for-profit, non-profit, or professional, and can be domestic (Utah-based) or foreign (from outside Utah).

The most common type of business entity structure in Utah is the sole proprietorship because it is the simplest and least expensive to establish. Other common business structures in Utah include partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies (LLCs). LLCs are popular due to their limited liability protection.

Why Search for a Utah Business Entity

Most people search for a Utah business entity to ensure their business name is unique, legal, and available for use, and to comply with state regulations. This search is a necessary first step when registering a business, such as an LLC, to avoid potential issues and to comply with the state's requirement that every entity name must be distinct. The Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code's online database allows you to search for active entities and their public records. Some reasons to conduct a Utah business entity search are:

• Prepare for Registration: Conducting the search helps you prepare for the registration process, ensuring a smoother and more successful registration.

• Verify Name Availability: Before registering a new business, search to ensure your desired name is not already taken and is "distinguishable" from other registered names. You can do this through the Utah Division of Corporations.

• Check Business Status: You can search for a "Certificate of Good Standing" to confirm that a business is current with all its state filings and franchise taxes.

• Research a Company: Search to find specific details like an entity's status, location, and registration type, or to view images of past filings submitted by the business.

• Investigate Potential Partners or Competitors: Researching a company can help you understand its history, structure, and regulatory compliance before making a business decision and jeopardizing your own company.

• Verify Licensing and Compliance: The Utah Division of Corporations enables you to verify the licensing status of businesses in regulated industries, a crucial step for both consumers and other companies.

• Find a Business Organizer or Incorporator: If you know a founder's name, you can search for all the businesses they have been involved with.

• Avoiding Legal Issues: To prevent potential legal challenges from owners of similar businesses, and ensure your chosen name doesn't cause you legal problems.

• Gathering Information: Gathering information about a specific business for contracts, due diligence, or other legal research.

• Competitors: Gathering information about competitors.

• Before Investing: Conducting thorough due diligence when acquiring or investing in a business.

• Registered Agent: Looking up a registered agent for service of process.

• Trademarks: Searching for registered trademarks to avoid conflicts.

How to Search for Business Entities

To search for business entities in Utah, you can contact the Department of Commerce. The Division of Corporations has an online system you can use to search. Generally, people search for businesses to ensure that they are legitimate and that their operations are authorized in and by the State of Utah.

To search, you first have to select your criteria. The options are as follows:

• Business Entity Name: The legal name of the business registered with the Division.

• Domicile Name: The jurisdiction where the business was initially formed.

• Assumed Name (DBA): Alternative name under which the business operates.

• Principal Name: Individual or organization responsible for the business.

• Registered Agent Name: Person or entity designated to receive official correspondence.

What Information Can You Find with the Secretary of State?

Once you have provided the search information, click on the search button to get a list of matching results. This result will include names of businesses, filing dates and times, business status, status details, file date, entity type, entity subtype, and entity number.

How to Access Detailed Information

Clicking on a business name in the results list will reveal additional information, including:

• Business Formation Date

• Formation Effective Date

• Registered Agent's Name, Type, and Street Address

• Principal Name and Address

• Business Physical Address and Mailing Address

• Service of Process Information

For further assistance in performing a business entity search in Utah, contact the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code in the Utah Department of Commerce.

What Business Entity Information is Not Public

Although Utah considers business ownership information public record, certain personal details like the owner's full Social Security number, bank account numbers, driver's license numbers, and other items are not.

With a Utah LLC, it is possible to keep ownership information out of the public record by using a registered agent, a business address instead of a personal one, and ensuring your personal information is not on the formation documents.

• Owner's Details: Things like the owner's full Social Security number, driver's license number, bank account numbers, child's name and date of birth, are kept private.

• Non-Party Information: Addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of associated individuals.

• Trade Secrets: Formulas, processes, methods, or other proprietary information that derives economic value from not being generally known to the public and is the subject of reasonable efforts to maintain its secrecy.

• Private Employee Medical Records: Medical and health insurance information.

• Customer and Employee Identifying Information: Identifying information like Social Security Numbers, driver's license numbers, and passport numbers.

• Revenue and Profit Numbers (unless a public company): Smaller companies that are not publicly traded can keep their financial data private.

• Financial Data: Bank and credit card numbers, as well as loan information.

How to Find EIN and UCC Records in Utah

You can find a business's EIN through the Utah Division of Corporations by searching their Business Entity Search service, which may provide the EIN on filed documents if they are publicly available and included in the record. For other options, you can check past tax documents, contact the business directly, use the IRS's online database for public companies or non-profits, or call the IRS directly for your own business.

Another excellent method of obtaining a business's EIN is to use EntityCheck's EIN search tool.

You can find UCC liens in Utah by searching the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code's online database, as UCC filings are public records. To search, you can use the "Standard search" for a debtor's name or "Advanced search" for other information, like the document or secured party number on the Utah Division of Corporations website. For a fee, you can also request copies of the filings using Form UCC-11. You may also request UCC records by mail.

A quicker and better way to find UCC filings is to use EntityCheck's UCC search tool.

How to Find DBA Records in Utah

To find DBA records in Utah, go to the Utah Division of Corporations website, log in with your UtahID, and navigate to the "Renewals" section. From there, select "DBA and Business Trust Renewal" and search for the DBA by name or number to view the records.

EntityCheck Business Background Check Takes Your Search Further

To get even more insightful results when searching for Utah business entities, use EntityCheck's powerful search engine. Search quickly and easily by business name, EIN, owner, phone number, or email address. Along with the information above, you can dig deeper to find incredibly illuminating details such as:

• 
  UCC Filings

  Discover Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings, showing creditors' attachment to business assets. These files provide insight into the organization's financial stability through its standing debts and resulting risk. Also find lien details, creditor and debtor information, filing and expiration dates, as well as collateral and asset claims.

• 
  Court Cases

  Evaluate a company's legal record to assess potential risks associated with its operations and identify any outstanding issues. Review bankruptcy filings, liens and judgments, federal court cases, litigation, and legal history of ongoing and past court cases.

• 
  Licenses

  Verify business credentials, including licenses, permits, and government certifications, as well as the educational backgrounds of decision-makers, to assess credibility.

• 
  Filing & Compliance

  Review a company's financial performance reports, DBAs (Doing Business As), and government Tax IDs.

• 
  Trademarks & Patents

  Find out what intellectual properties a company controls and review the details of any trademarks and patents it holds.

• 
  Registered Individuals

  Identify key decision-makers, registered agents, corporate officers, and leadership, even if this information is not readily available through official records.

Alternative Resources Beyond the Utah Division of Corporations

Although the Utah Division of Corporations offers some helpful information, you can also check with other government agencies to see what kind of business data they offer. Some of the most useful resources in Utah to include in your search are:

• Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code: The Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code registers and manages business entities, provides public access to business information, and handles Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings. It allows users to check for name availability, reserve names, and register various business structures like LLCs, corporations, and partnerships. The division also processes filings for name changes, mergers, and other corporate actions, and provides public records and certified documents.

• Utah State Tax Commission: According to the state of Utah, the Utah State Tax Commission is charged with "collecting revenue for the state of Utah and local governments and administering tax and assigned motor vehicle laws. The main Tax Commission offices are located in Salt Lake City, with additional offices located around the state."

• County Clerk's Offices: Each of Utah's county clerk's offices acts as the local repository for property and business records. These offices administer elections, issue marriage licenses and passports, and manage county government records that are subject to retention laws. They also provide public records upon request and issue certified copies for a fee.

• Utah Labor Commission: The Utah Labor Commission works to ensure fairness and safety in the workplace through various functions, including overseeing occupational safety and health standards, enforcing workers' compensation laws, and handling discrimination complaints. It also manages the Utah Anti-Discrimination and Labor Division (UALD) to investigate and resolve employment discrimination issues, and ensures employers are complying with workers' compensation insurance requirements.

• Utah Department of Workforce Services: The Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS) helps Utah residents find employment and assists businesses with their workforce needs. It provides job search and career enhancement services, manages unemployment insurance, and administers assistance programs for food, medical care, and housing. Additionally, the DWS provides economic data and analysis to support the state's economy and works on statewide initiatives like supporting refugees, veterans, and rural communities.

• Utah Securities Division: The Utah Securities Division regulates the state's securities industry by licensing investment professionals, enforcing securities laws, and investigating fraud. It also protects investors through education by providing resources to help them understand investments and avoid scams. Additionally, the Division handles the registration of securities offered to the public and enforces compliance from companies and professionals.

Use any of the resources above to find out even more about a Utah business entity.

How to Find the Owner of a Business Entity in Utah

To find a business owner in Utah, use the Utah Division of Corporations' online search tool and search for the entity by name, principal name, or registered agent. You can also conduct a Principal Name search to see all businesses associated with a specific individual. For each entity, the search will provide information on registered principals and other details about the business. Many Utah entities have publicly listed owner information, but some may not. In which case, use the additional resources below.

Additional Resources for Business Ownership Info

Some additional places to look when searching for the owner of a business include:

• The Entity's Website: Many Utah business entities have websites that provide information about their ownership. Check the "about us", "leadership", or another similarly named page on the website to find the name of the business owner.

• Local Chambers of Commerce: Utah's local chambers of commerce serve as valuable resources for identifying business owners. Typically, they maintain directories of member businesses, which often include the names and contact information of owners.

• Better Business Bureau (BBB): The Better Business Bureau generally provides verified details about local businesses, sometimes listing the names of owners or principals.

• Public Libraries: Many libraries have business directories or access to exclusive databases. You may find detailed information on business profiles, including the business owners' information.

• Professional Licensing Boards: For businesses that operate in regulated industries, the licensing boards may have information on business entity owners.

• Public Record Requests: Submit a public record request to the appropriate local or state government agency to inquire about the name of a business owner.

• Social Media: Check out the company's social media presence and perform searches with the company name and the words "owner, director, officer", etc., to find out who controls the business.

Types of Owners and Their Roles

Utah offers several types of business leadership/ownership roles, including executive positions like CEO and CFO, functional leadership roles like HR and Sales Manager, and project-based leadership, such as Project Manager and Team Lead. Other examples include General Manager, Director of various departments (e.g., Facilities, Operations), and market-specific roles such as Utah Market Leader.

The complete list of typical ownership roles in Utah includes:

Executive and Senior Leadership

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): The highest-ranking executive in a company.

• President: Often runs the company, similar to a CEO.

• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Oversees the company's finances.

• Chief Operating Officer (COO): Manages the day-to-day operations.

• Director (various fields): Examples include Director of Facilities, Director of Business Development, and Director of Strategic Finance.

• Vice President (VP): Typically oversees a major department or function.

Functional and Departmental Leadership Roles

• Human Resources Manager: Oversees employee-related functions.

• Sales Manager: Leads a sales team.

• Marketing Manager: Leads marketing efforts.

• IT Manager: Manages information technology departments.

• Quality Manager: Responsible for product and service quality.

• Area Manager: Oversees operations in a specific geographic area.

Project and Team Leadership Roles

• Project Manager: Manages the planning and execution of a specific project.

• Team Lead: Guides and directs a team, often at a more junior level than a manager.

• Assistant Manager: Works under a general or department manager.

Other Common Roles

• General Manager: Oversees a business unit or location.

• Business Development Manager: Focuses on growing a business, such as finding new partners or clients.

• Controller: Manages a company's accounting and financial reporting.

Different entity structures have various roles and types of ownership. Some individuals who have control over a company may not hold a traditional role within it. Leadership is a crucial factor to understand before working with a company. Utah also has some specialized roles, such as Business Analyst, Actuarial Analyst, PR Manager, and Corporate R&D Chef.

Some other conventional roles within corporations, partnerships, and LLCs include:

• Shareholders (or Stockholders): They own the corporation by purchasing stock, which grants them voting rights to elect the Board of Directors and influence major corporate decisions.

• Directors: Directors set the strategic course for the corporation, make major decisions, and oversee the conduct of the officers.

• Officers: Officers, such as presidents (CEO) and secretaries, manage the day-to-day operations of the business and are hired and fired by the Board of Directors.

• Members: Members are the owners of the LLC. They can also serve as managers or delegate management to others. Members are typically protected from personal liability for the company's debts.

• Managers: Managers, who can be members or non-members, are designated to manage the business and affairs of the LLC.

• General Partners: They manage the business affairs as outlined in the partnership agreement. General partners are entirely liable for all business debts and obligations.

• Limited Partners: Limited partners have limited management rights. Their liability is typically limited to their investment in the business, providing them with some protection from business debts.

Red Flags to Look for When Searching Business Entities

When reviewing Utah companies for various purposes, you must keep in mind some red flags that could indicate deeper problems. To avoid partnering with, relying on, or investing in a business that is either criminal or in trouble requires proper research and evaluation. When looking at Utah businesses, watch out for the following red flags:

Entity Status Problems

Visit the Utah Division of Corporations to verify an entity's business status. Check for an "Expired" or "Delinquent" status, which is a major red flag that something is wrong. Check to ensure that the business has filed all required annual reports, and whether the business operates in a regulated industry without the necessary licenses or permits.

Sometimes the available data can be limited, inaccurate, or missing. You can also use EntityCheck's stellar business search tool to find details about a company in Utah.

Inconsistent or Suspicious Information

Always keep an eye out for missing or inconsistent information. Look for any inconsistencies in the registered agent's name, address, or other details. Lack of clear contact information can be a big concern.

Another red flag is a misleading name. A business name that is too similar to an existing one, or that incorrectly implies a government affiliation, can be a warning sign that the company is attempting to deceive the public.

A business with a poorly designed website or that uses excessive grammatical errors and spelling mistakes might also be a red flag.

Recent reports show that fraudulent companies in Utah are involved in schemes like investment fraud (e.g., Alpha Influence), construction scams, and misleading business practices, for example, Wagscap Food Services. To combat this, Utah has formed a new Residential Construction Fraud Task Force and created a dedicated prosecutor position. Consumers can also seek help through the Utah Division of Consumer Protection and the Utah.gov scams website.

Ownership and Management Concerns

Utah businesses that fail often lack a solid business plan, which makes them hard to research and assess for success. Additionally, businesses with poor customer relationships may seem less credible to potential partners or investors, which can make them difficult to research.

A weak or inconsistent brand identity can make it hard to track and research a business's history, marketing efforts, and overall strategy. Check social media and the company's website to dig deeper. Also consult online reviews, where you can find indications of poor customer support or a disconnected leadership team.

The most common types of employment lawsuits in Utah include discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, and wage violations. Other types include harassment, breach of contract, and workers' compensation or job-related injuries.

Financial and Legal Warning Signs

Check a company's financials for inconsistent financial transactions, a lack of documentation, duplicate payments or invoices, or suspicious cash disbursements. They, too, can indicate fraud or potential criminal activity. Always be on the lookout for requests for unusual payment types, such as wire transfers, credit cards, or those made to a personal bank account.

Additionally, watch for an unusually high number of transactions, especially around the end of a reporting period, which could be an attempt to inflate sales to defraud the government or the public.

Legal and Compliance Gaps

Researching businesses in certain sectors, such as construction, mining, and utilities, is challenging because these industries have historically high failure rates in Utah. Many of these types of industries are strongly regulated with annual requirements and transparency obligations. Some compliance issues in Utah relate to employment law, including wage and hour, anti-discrimination, and health and safety regulations, as well as corporate formalities such as maintaining proper records. Other compliance challenges include adhering to state and federal tax requirements, consumer protection laws, and specific industry regulations like ITAR for defense exports.

Investigate whether the company is filing annual reports on time, paying all its taxes, and has up-to-date licenses and permits to conduct business in Utah.

According to Hunter-Smith-Davis, the most common types of business litigation in Utah stem from contract breaches, partnership disagreements, shareholder disputes, intellectual property litigation, and antitrust violations.

Connections & Affiliations

A company's connections and affiliations can tell quite a story. Sometimes one person runs multiple dissolved/failed companies. Look for repeat patterns of dissolutions followed by new formations. That is a significant indicator of potential fraud. Something to watch out for is a company with connections to organized crime figures and politically exposed persons (PEPs). If the company tries hard to conceal the actual owner or person in charge, let that be a warning to stay away.

Some red flags in broader business records include the following:

Inconsistent Public Records

• Company filings don't match what's listed in:

  • Court records

  • Tax records

  • Property ownership filings

  • An example of this is that the registered address differs from the address in lawsuits or liens.

Poor Record-Keeping

• Missing meeting minutes (for corporations).

• No updated ownership/member list for LLCs.

• Lack of transparency in accounting records.

Regulatory Issues

• Fines, sanctions, or loss of licenses with state agencies.

• Businesses flagged by the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's office.

Unusual Patterns

• Very recent incorporation with sudden high activity.

• Foreign entities registered but not compliant with local laws.

• Shell-company indicators (multiple entities tied to the same registered agent at the same address).

Best Practices When Reviewing Business Entity Records

The list of best practices outlined below can help you maximize your research efforts. A business background check can take time, but it can yield a wealth of information that could help you avoid any costly mistakes.

• Cross-reference everything.

• Compare the UCC filing data with records from litigation and bankruptcy courts. Look for discrepancies between the documents.

• Check annual reports for consistency year-over-year.

• Research the owners of a company to detect possible bankruptcies, felonies, fraud, and other legal issues that could affect your business.

• Use business verification services or business background reports from EntityCheck.

• Keep in mind the context. For example, a single lien may not be alarming, but multiple filings, lawsuits, and frequent leadership turnover together signal real risk.

How to Register an Entity in Utah

Registering a business entity in Utah takes several steps. The first and most important step is to check the name availability to ensure your chosen name is unique and not already in use by another company. You should also check trademarks to avoid any legal conflicts later. The steps to register may depend on the type of business structure you choose, but the general process is as follows:

• Decide on a business structure (e.g., LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.).

• Choose and register a business name that meets Utah's requirements.

• File paperwork with the Utah Division of Corporations or the county clerk.

• Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) from the IRS.

• Open a business bank account.

• Apply for necessary licenses and permits.

• Get business insurance for liability and compliance.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in Utah?

Startup costs in Utah vary based on business type and services required. Typical fees include:

• Registration Costs: Filing fees range from $54-$70, depending on the business entity.

• Licensing and Permits: Permit costs range between $50-$200, depending on the city and industry.

• Registered Agent Services: Hiring a professional may cost $50-$500 annually

In Utah, business names must be unique, distinguishable from other existing businesses, and may require a specific legal suffix depending on the business structure (e.g., "LLC" for Limited Liability Companies or "Corporation" for corporations). Names cannot be misleading or imply government affiliation. Certain words like "bank", "university", or "Olympic" require special approval. The exact rules to follow are:

• Uniqueness: Your business name must be unique and distinguishable from any other registered business name in Utah.

• Distinguishability: Adding "the", "and", or changing punctuation alone is not enough to make a name distinguishable.

• Misleading Names: The name cannot be misleading or imply a false government affiliation.

• Restricted Words: You cannot use certain words without specific approval from state agencies, such as "bank", "credit union", "college", "university", or "Olympic".

• LLCs: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or an abbreviation like "LLC" or "L.L.C." at the end of the name.

• Corporations: Must include "corporation", "incorporated", "company", or their abbreviations "corp.", "inc.", or "co.". "Company" and "co." are generic and may be used by other entity types.

• Sole Proprietorships and Partnerships: Can operate under the owner's surname without registration.

• DBA: If using a different name, they must file a Doing Business As (DBA) name with the state.

FAQs

1. How do I look up who owns an LLC in Utah (members vs. managers)?

   You can look up who owns an LLC in Utah by using the Utah Division of Corporations' Business Entity Search tool. You can search using the LLC's name or entity number to find its public records, which may list the members or managers. If ownership isn't explicitly listed, you may find the registered agent or principal office and can search other public filings or request more information.

   You can also use EntityCheck's business background search toolto find ownership details, officers, directors, and more.

2. How can I find a corporation's officers and directors in the state?

   You can find a corporation's officers and directors in Utah by using the Utah Division of Corporations' online Business Entity Search, which allows you to search for a company, view its details, and access principal information. To do this, go to the Utah Division of Corporations website, use the Business Entity Search to find the corporation, and then click on the entity's details to find the "Access Principal Information" button. For public companies, you can also use the SEC's EDGAR database to find ownership details.

3. Are business owners' names public or private in Utah?

   In Utah, a business owner's name is generally public unless they take steps to protect it. While the initial state filing may not require listing the owner, Utah law requires the information to be a public record for LLCs, although the owner's name may not be on the initial filing. Some companies protect their privacy by listing the registered agent and another business address on formation documents.

4. Where do I search official business records in the state?

   You can search official business records in Utah on the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code website. Go to the website and use the "Business Entity Search" to look up a business by its name or entity number to find its public records and filed documents.

   You can also find official business records using EntityCheck's business background reports.

5. How do I check if a business name is available or reserved in Utah?

   To check if a business name is available in Utah, use the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code's Business Entity Search tool. If the name is taken, you can check if it's reserved by searching the database for dissolved entities or other types of business names, as Utah law states that no two businesses can have the same name. You can also reserve a name for 120 days for a fee.

6. How can I view recent filings (Articles, amendments, mergers, annual/biennial reports) for a company in Utah?

   You can view a company's recent filings by searching for the business on the Utah Division of Corporations' website. On the record's page, click "Filing History" to see a list of past documents, including articles, amendments, annual/biennial reports, and mergers. You can download free, plain copies of the documents from this history page. You can pay a fee to get certified copies of specific documents.

7. How do I get a Certificate of Good Standing/Existence in Utah?

   You can get a Certificate of Existence (also called a Certificate of Good Standing) for a Utah company online, by mail, or in person through the Utah Division of Corporations. To get one online, log into businessregistration.utah.gov, select "Copies and Certificates" from the menu, then "Request Certificate of Existence" and follow the on-screen steps. To order them by mail, download the form, then mail the completed form and a check for the fee to: Utah Division of Corporations, P.O. Box 146705, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6705. You can also visit the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Corporations & Commercial Code office in Salt Lake City to get copies in person. A regular form costs $12 and a long form costs $20.

8. How do I obtain certified copies of formation documents and amendments in the state?

   To get certified copies of formation documents and amendments in Utah, you must request them from the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. You can submit your request by mail, fax, or in person, though you will get it the fastest if you use the online system. You will need to provide your business's name, the specific documents you need, and your contact and mailing information.

9. How do I search UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) liens against a company in Utah?

   To search for UCC liens against a company in Utah, go to the Utah Department of Commerce's Division of Corporations and Commercial Code website, find the UCC search page, and enter the company's name or the filing number. You can also search for active (unlapsed) liens only, request certified search results, and use a user guide to understand search options.

   You can also find UCC liens using the EntityCheck's UCC search tool.

10. What are the steps to register an LLC in Utah (forms, fees, timeline)?

    To register an LLC in Utah, you must file a Certificate of Organization with the state for a $59 fee, which requires you to choose a business name and appoint a registered agent. After filing, you should create an operating agreement and obtain an EIN from the IRS and any required business licenses, then file a $20 annual report each year to stay in good standing with the state.

11. What are the steps to incorporate (C-Corp/S-Corp) in Utah?

    To incorporate as a C-Corp or S-Corp in Utah, first, choose a unique business name and appoint a registered agent. Next, file the Articles of Incorporation with the Utah Division of Corporations and pay the required fee. After incorporating, create corporate bylaws, issue stock, hold an initial meeting, get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, and apply for any necessary licenses and permits. To be an S-Corp, you must also file IRS Form 2553.

12. Do I need a registered agent in the state, and who can serve as one?

    Yes, a registered agent is required in Utah for all business entities, such as LLCs and corporations. You can serve as your own agent, appoint an individual over 18 with a physical Utah address, or hire a commercial registered agent service. Your registered agent must have a physical Utah street address (not a PO box) where they can receive documents during business hours. This could be a friend, family member, or employee.

13. What annual reports, franchise/margin taxes, or license renewals are required in Utah?

    In Utah, all registered businesses must file an annual report with the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code to remain in good standing. Additionally, businesses must file a state business income or franchise tax return, and some businesses may have other specific license renewals or tax filings (like sales tax), depending on their industry. The annual report is due by the end of the anniversary month of the business's registration. Annual reports cost $18 per filing.

14. How long does state approval take in Utah, and are expedited options available?

    In Utah, the normal processing time for state business filings can be up to 14 business days, but expedited options are available for a faster turnaround, such as 1-2 business days for a fee. Other state approvals vary; for example, a driver's license can take 6-8 weeks to be mailed, but there's no mention of a faster option. Expedited options for business transactions cost $75 per document.

15. Do I need to foreign-qualify to do business in Utah if my company is formed elsewhere?

    Yes, your out-of-state company needs to foreign-qualify in Utah to do business there legally. This involves filing a Foreign Registration Statement with the state, appointing a Utah-registered agent, and providing a Certificate of Good Standing from your home state. Failing to qualify can prevent your company from suing in Utah courts and may result in penalties and fines. You must pay a filing fee of $70 when foreign qualifying in Utah.

16. What activities count as "doing business" in the state?

    Activities that count as "doing business" in Utah typically involve a physical presence, continuous activity, or significant economic ties, such as having an established office, warehouse, or employees in the state. It can also include regularly selling goods or services, even without a physical location, and is subject to Utah's laws and regulations. For out-of-state companies, significant activity may require a foreign qualification to operate legally. Remote sellers in Utah grossing more than $100,000 may also create a sales tax obligation.

17. How do I file a DBA/fictitious business name in Utah, and is county/city filing required?

    To file a DBA in Utah, you must register online or by mail with the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code; however, you do not need to file at the county or city level for the DBA itself. You will need to file a separate local business license with your city or county, depending on your location.

18. How do I change my company's name, address, officers, or members with the state?

    To change your company's name, address, officers, or members in Utah, you must file an amendment with the Utah Division of Corporations. You can do this online through the Utah Division of Corporations website. For officer or member changes, you may need to check your company's operating agreement or bylaws, and you may also need to update the IRS if your business is a corporation.

19. How do I reinstate or revive a company that's been administratively dissolved in Utah?

    To reinstate an administratively dissolved company in Utah, you must resolve the reasons for dissolution, pay all delinquent fees and taxes, and file an Application for Reinstatement with the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. For LLCs, you can file online through the Utah Division of Corporations website. For corporations, you must also include a Tax Letter of Good Standing from the Utah State Tax Commission. For LLCs, you typically have two years from the date of administrative dissolution.

20. Do I need to file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN, and how does that interact with Utah filings?

    You must file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report with FinCEN if your company is a "reporting company" under the Corporate Transparency Act, but there are 23 exemptions. If you are required to file, it is a separate federal requirement from any Utah state filings, though your Utah formation document may trigger the federal requirement. The process of determining if you need to file and the specific filing deadlines depends on your company's structure, the date of its formation, and whether any exemptions apply.