Start a Business in Utah

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This guide on starting your business in Utah provides step-by-step instructions on the paperwork to file formation documents, obtain tax IDs, and set up company records.

how to start a business

Step-By-Step Startup

Below is an overview of the paperwork, cost, and time to form each of the most popular business structures. Simply click on the link for your desired structure to view detailed step-by-step instructions.

  • If you have not decided whether you want to form an LLC, corporation, or other business structure, click here.
  • If wish to form your business in a different state than Utah, click here.
Structure Paperwork Cost Time

Utah Limited Liability Company

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  • Form LLCDomestic: Articles of Organization
  • Operating Agreement
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form TC-69: Utah State Business and Tax Registration
  • FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Report
  • Formation: $70 + optional $75 expedite fee
  • Formation: ~14 business days by mail or fax. ~1 business day online. ~1-2 business days by mail or fax with $75 expedite fee.

Utah Corporation

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  • Form INCProfit: Articles of Incorporation (Profit)
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form 2553: S-Corp Election, if desired
  • Form TC-69: Utah State Business and Tax Registration
  • FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Report
  • Incorporation: $70 + optional $75 expedite fee
  • Incorporation: ~14 business days by mail or fax. ~1 business day online. ~1-2 business days by mail or fax with $75 expedite fee

Utah Nonprofit

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  • Form SS-4418: Charter Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form TC-69: Utah State Business and Tax Registration
  • Utah Business License Registration
  • Form TC-160: Application for Sales Tax Exemption Number for Religious or Charitable Institutions
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Utah Charitable Organization Permit Application Form or Request for Exemption pursuant to Charitable Solicitations Act
  • FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Report
  • Incorporation: $30
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Utah charitable registration: $100 ($0 if exempt)
  • Incorporation: ~14 business days by mail or fax. ~1 business day online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Utah

  1. Filing online in Utah can be confusing. Yet, online filings process faster. They are automatically expedited and take 1-2 business days. Mailed articles are processed in around 2 weeks.
  2. If filing by mail, submit the original signed formation document. If you want a copy returned, submit an exact copy of the filed document along with a return-addressed envelope with adequate first-class postage.
  3. Utah offers a consolidated registration application for new business state tax registration. Not all states do - this is a great convenience.
  4. Your LLC or corporation must appoint a registered agent. We'll explain the requirements for serving as your own agent in Utah.
  5. Utah LLCs, corporations, and DBAs must submit an annual report to the Utah Department of Commerce. A postcard is mailed from the Utah Division of Commerce to your registered agent. It contains your entity number and renewal ID for filing online.