Incorporating a business in Utah is affordable and relatively quick. You’ll need to choose your corporate structure, designate a registered agent, and keep track of the annual filings that keep your business in good standing.

Utah offers businesses a favorable tax environment, predictable costs, and an online system that’s easy to navigate. It supports founders who want liability protection and credibility without unnecessary friction. Below, we’ll explain what it takes to incorporate in Utah, from formation to compliance.

What’s in this article?

• How do you incorporate a business in Utah?
  
• What are the benefits of incorporating in Utah?
  
• What are the legal requirements to incorporate in Utah?
  
• How much does it cost to incorporate in Utah?
  
• What are the steps to register an LLC or corporation in Utah?
  
• How Stripe Atlas can help
  

How do you incorporate a business in Utah?

Incorporating in Utah is similar to incorporating in many other states. While incorporating refers to setting up a corporation, the process is nearly identical to forming a limited liability company (LLC). The latter works best for some companies, particularly smaller operations that want flexibility. Whichever one you choose, you need to pick your business structure, choose a registered agent with a Utah address, file your documents with the state, and set up any required tax accounts.

Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to acquire any required city or county licensing, file your annual renewal with the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code, and update the state anytime your registered agent, operating address, or management changes.

What are the benefits of incorporating in Utah?

Incorporating in Utah is a practical move for founders who are looking for a state that combines low costs, reliable protection, and access to a growing, innovative business community.

Here are the advantages that come with incorporating in the state of Utah:

• Cost savings: The filing fee to start an LLC or corporation in Utah is $59, and the annual renewal fee is $18. This is less expensive than the filing fees in many other states.

• Tax climate: Utah’s corporate income tax rate is a flat 4.55% for all businesses. This consistency makes growth modeling and fundraising conversations much easier.

• Efficient state systems: Utah business filings can be completed online quickly. That means less downtime waiting on the mail and fewer issues managing compliance.

• Proximity to improvement: Incorporating in Utah gives you proximity to “Silicon Slopes,” the state’s major tech corridor. Being registered locally connects you to peers, startup accelerators, and investors who understand Utah’s business environment.

What are the legal requirements to incorporate in Utah?

Here’s what you’ll need to do to incorporate in Utah.

Registered agent

Every Utah business needs a registered agent with a physical address in the state. This person must be available during regular business hours to accept legal documents and other notices. This can be you, but many companies choose to use a service. The state won’t approve your filing without one, and your business can’t legally operate if your agent is unresponsive.

Formation documents

LLCs file articles of organization with the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. You’ll declare your company name, address, registered agent, and state whether it’s member or manager managed.

Corporations file articles of incorporation with the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. Expect to list your company’s address, registered agent, share structure, and incorporator details.

Internal paperwork

Utah doesn’t require you to file an operating agreement (for LLCs) or bylaws (for corporations), but it’s a good idea to create them anyway. Banks, investors, and even the courts look for them when questions arise.

Ongoing compliance

To stay active, you’ll file an annual renewal with the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. If you miss the deadline, the state can mark your business “delinquent,” which will make it more difficult to open a bank account and sign contracts.

How much does it cost to incorporate in Utah?

The cost to incorporate in Utah is relatively low compared to that of many states. You’ll pay $59 to file your initial documents with the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. Annual renewal costs $18 if you file on time, plus a $10 late penalty if you miss the deadline. C corporations (C corps) must pay an annual minimum franchise tax of $100.

You can act as your own registered agent, or you can hire a professional registered agent service. Hiring a service costs roughly $100–$300 per year. City or county licenses can come with varying fees so check whether you need any of those.

If you want to register a “doing business as” name, that costs $18. Any amendment to your articles costs $17.

What are the steps to register an LLC or corporation in Utah?

If you want to incorporate or form an LLC in Utah, here are the steps you’ll follow.

Decide on your business structure

LLCs are flexible, easy to maintain, and popular with small teams. Members can manage directly, and profits flow through to personal tax returns.

Corporations are more formal, designed for raising capital and issuing stock. They require a board of directors and shareholder meetings, but this structure positions you well if you’re seeking outside investment.

Choose a business name

Utah mandates that your business name be distinguishable from existing entities on record. You can search the state’s database online to check availability. LLCs must use “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” at the end of their names, and corporations must use “Inc.,” “Corp.,” or a similar marker.

Appoint a registered agent

Every Utah business needs a registered agent with a physical address in Utah (no PO Boxes). This person or service accepts legal and tax notices on your behalf. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Utah street address and are comfortable being publicly listed, or you can hire a service for privacy and reliability. If your agent changes, you must notify the state promptly to stay compliant.

File your formation documents

This is the core step for Utah LLC formation or incorporation. An LLC files articles of organization, listing the business name, address, registered agent, and whether it’s member or manager managed. A corporation files articles of incorporation, listing the company name, address, registered agent, number of shares authorized, and incorporator information. You can file online, by mail, or in person.

Draft internal agreements

Operating agreements for LLCs outline ownership percentages, voting rights, and how profits are split. Bylaws for corporations define board structure, officer roles, and shareholder rights. Utah doesn’t require businesses to file these documents, but banks, investors, and courts usually expect them.

Register for state tax accounts

If you collect sales tax or withhold employee income tax, you’ll need to register with the Utah State Tax Commission. If you have employees, you’ll need to enroll with the Department of Workforce Services.

Get local licenses and permits

Cities and counties in Utah often mandate their own business licenses. If you’re in a regulated field, such as construction, healthcare, or food service, you will likely need additional permits.

Meet annual requirements

Once you’re set up, you’ll need to file an annual renewal with the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code. You’ll either confirm your information or update anything that’s changed. Compliance also means keeping minutes of board meetings (for corporations) and maintaining good records. This helps protect your liability shield.

How Stripe Atlas can help

Stripe Atlas sets up your company’s legal foundations so you can fundraise, open a bank account, and accept payments within two business days from anywhere in the world.

Join 75K+ companies incorporated using Atlas, including startups backed by top investors like Y Combinator, a16z, and General Catalyst.

Applying to Atlas

Applying to form a company with Atlas takes less than 10 minutes. You’ll choose your company structure, instantly confirm whether your company name is available, and add up to four cofounders. You’ll also decide how to split equity, reserve a pool of equity for future investors and employees, appoint officers, and then e-sign all your documents. Any cofounders will receive emails inviting them to e-sign their documents, too.

Accepting payments and banking before your EIN arrives

After forming your company, Atlas files for your Employer Identification Number (EIN). Founders with a US Social Security number, address, and cell phone number are eligible for IRS expedited processing, while others will receive standard processing, which can take a little longer. Additionally, Atlas enables pre-EIN payments and banking, so you can start accepting payments and making transactions before your EIN arrives.

Cashless founder stock purchase

Founders can purchase initial shares using their intellectual property (e.g., copyrights or patents) instead of cash, with proof of purchase stored in your Atlas Dashboard. Your IP must be valued at $100 or less to use this feature; if you own IP above that value, consult a lawyer before proceeding.

Automatic 83(b) tax election filing

Founders can file an 83(b) tax election to reduce personal income taxes. Atlas will file it for you—whether you are a US or non-US founder—with USPS Certified Mail and tracking. You’ll receive a signed 83(b) election and proof of filing directly in your Stripe Dashboard.

World-class company legal documents

Atlas provides all the legal documents you need to start running your company. Atlas C corp documents are built in collaboration with Cooley, one of the world’s leading venture capital law firms. These documents are designed to help you fundraise immediately and ensure your company is legally protected, covering aspects like ownership structure, equity distribution, and tax compliance.

A free year of Stripe Payments, plus $50K in partner credits and discounts

Atlas collaborates with top-tier partners to give founders exclusive discounts and credits. These include discounts on essential tools for engineering, tax, finance, compliance, and operations from industry leaders like AWS, Carta, and Perplexity. We also provide you with your required Delaware registered agent for free in your first year. Plus, as an Atlas user, you’ll access additional Stripe benefits, including up to a year of free payment processing for up to $100K in payment volume.

Learn more about how Atlas can help you set up your new business quickly and easily, or get started today.