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In Utah the state itself holds DBA records. The Division of Corporations and Commercial Code runs the filing, and its DBA page is the best starting point. Fees below come from the Division's fee schedule. The schedule says all processing fees are nonrefundable.
Who can hold a Utah DBA?
A sole proprietor, a general partnership, or an entity that wants to transact business under an assumed name. So an LLC can register one. If you only need a trade name for a one person business, a DBA is the simple route. If you want liability protection, our DBA vs LLC guide and Utah LLC guide are the next stop.
How do you register a DBA in Utah?
- Log in with a UtahID. If you do not have one, you create it at login.
- Select Formations from the left menu.
- Choose Assumed Name (DBA) Registrations and follow the steps. The system moves one screen at a time with a Next button.
The state fee is $22. Before you pay, run the Division's Name Availability search. The Division warns that a name that looks free is not final until it approves the filing.
What does it cost to keep and end a DBA?
- Renewal: $18, and the schedule says renewal fees marked with an asterisk include a $5 surcharge for the state sign-on portal.
- Late renewal: an extra $10.
- Cancellation or transfer: no charge.
- Change form or online change: $17.
You renew online. Log in, pick Renewals, then DBA and Business Trust Renewal. Search by name or number, select the DBA and follow the prompts.
What can you not do with a Utah DBA?
The Division spells out the limits.
- You cannot amend the name of a DBA.
- You cannot merge a DBA into another entity or convert it. To turn a DBA into an LLC, cancel the DBA and register the entity.
- You cannot reinstate an expired DBA. Register a new one online.
- You cannot file a cancellation for an expired DBA.
Transfer of ownership uses a two page form: a letter of transfer plus a DBA application. Changes to the other registration details use the registration change form, filed through Submit a Paper Filing.
How do you search for a Utah DBA?
Use the Division's Business Entity Records Search. You can search by entity name or number, or by principal name or registered agent name. A search by principal returns all entities tied to that person. You can view a DBA's principals there. If you prefer not to look online, the Division says to contact its office. Our DBA search guide covers cross-checks, and how to file a DBA covers the general steps.
The Division also issues a certificate of existence for a DBA. A current or delinquent DBA can order one, but an expired or cancelled DBA cannot. The short form is $12 and the long form is $20, and an expedited order adds $75. For the next-door state, see Wyoming, where a trade name is optional.
What about licenses and taxes?
A DBA is a name record, not a license. See the Utah business license guide for the Tax Commission's sales tax license and other steps.
This page does not cover city or county rules, trademark filings or the fees for other filings at the Division.