Understanding Utah’s Rules for Business Name Registration, DBA, and Trade Names
How to register and manage your Utah business name and DBAs so your brand is legally recognized and compliant
This guide explains how to register and manage your Utah business name, including DBAs and trade names.
Whether you are starting an LLC, running a side business, or filing a new trade name, Utah law requires that your business name be properly registered. Getting this right protects your brand identity and helps you avoid fines, rejection, or confusion with other businesses in the state.
Below is a plain-English, step-by-step roadmap with legal links and practical tips every Utah business owner should know.
Legal Entity Name vs DBA vs Trade Name
Understand how Utah labels and treats names so you file correctly from day one.
When and Why to Register a Trade Name
You should register a trade name if any of the following apply:
- You operate under a name different from your legal entity name.
- You are a sole proprietor using a business name that does not include your full legal name.
- You want to protect your business identity and present professionally to clients, banks, and vendors.
Registration helps ensure no other Utah business is using the same name and allows you to open business bank accounts, sign contracts, and advertise under that name legally.
Check Name Availability
Before filing, verify that your desired name is not already taken or too similar to another:
- Search Utah’s Business Name Search portal for exact and near matches.
- Check federal trademarks on USPTO.gov to avoid conflicts.
- Confirm the domain and social handles you want for branding consistency.
Register or Renew Your DBA/Trade Name
Once the name is available, file online with the Utah Division of Corporations:
- Go to corporations.utah.gov and select Business Name Registration.
- Choose DBA or Assumed Name filing and complete owner and entity details.
- Pay the filing fee (usually around $22) and save your confirmation.
Renewal: Utah trade names must be renewed every three years. Reminders are not always sent, so calendar this date in advance.
Keep Records and Avoid Common Mistakes
Many filings are rejected for small errors. Watch out for these:
- Choosing a name that is too similar to a registered business.
- Listing the wrong owner or entity information.
- Missing payment or using the wrong fee amount.
- Forgetting to renew before expiration.
Keep digital copies of your DBA certificate, confirmations, and renewal notices, plus any amendments you file later.
How to Update or Cancel a Trade Name
If you change ownership, merge, or stop using a name, update public records promptly:
- Visit the Utah Division of Corporations website and locate your registration by entity number.
- Select Amend or Cancel and submit the change online or by mail.
Utah Laws and Learning Hub
Utah Code References
YouTube: Step-by-Step Filing Help
Key Takeaways
Register a DBA if you operate under a name different from your legal entity name.
Search Utah’s database and USPTO to avoid conflicts before filing.
Renew every three years and keep confirmations and certificates on file.
Amend or cancel promptly if your name usage changes.
Need Help Applying This to Your Business?
Every business has nuances. If you are unsure how Utah’s naming rules apply to your setup, a quick conversation with a Utah business attorney can help.
Talk to a Utah AttorneyFor more plain-English legal guidance, stay updated with Utah Law Explained, explore our mission on the About Us page, or connect with trusted counsel like Gibb Law Firm.