Utah LLC Filing Guide: Steps for Incorporating Your LLC

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Utah offers flexibility, protection, and credibility for business owners. Whether you’re launching a new venture or formalizing your existing business, understanding Utah’s filing requirements ensures your LLC is legally recognized and compliant from the start. This guide walks you through every step — from naming your company to maintaining compliance — using the most updated 2025 state guidelines.

1. Choose a Name for Your LLC

Your business name sets the foundation for your brand identity. Utah requires every LLC name to include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Company.” The name must be unique and compliant with Utah’s naming rules. Avoid names that imply government affiliation or mislead the public.

Tip: Use the Utah Division of Corporations’ business name search to verify availability before filing your documents.

2. Designate a Registered Agent

Every Utah LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in Utah (PO boxes are not allowed). The registered agent receives legal documents, government notices, and service of process on behalf of your company.

You may choose either:

• An individual who is a Utah resident, or

• A professional registered agent service.

This ensures your business remains compliant and responsive to official communications.

3. File the Certificate of Organization

Next, file your Certificate of Organization with the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Corporations either online or by mail.

• Filing Fee: $59

• Processing Time: 10–12 business days (expedited processing available for $75 to reduce to 2 business days)

Your Certificate of Organization must include:

• LLC name

• Principal business address

• Registered agent’s name and Utah address

• Organizer’s name and address (optional)

• Duration and purpose (optional)

Once approved, your LLC becomes an officially recognized business entity in Utah.

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4. Create an Operating Agreement (Recommended)

Although not required by Utah law, an Operating Agreement is strongly recommended. It outlines how your LLC will function, including:

• Ownership and membership details

• Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)

• Voting rights

• Profit and loss distribution

• Rules for adding or removing members

This document reinforces your limited liability protection and helps prevent internal conflicts.

5. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

An EIN is your LLC’s federal tax ID, required for tax filings, payroll, and business banking. Apply for free through the IRS website. Even single-member LLCs benefit from having an EIN for separating personal and business finances.

6. Obtain Local Business Licenses (If Required)

Utah does not issue a general statewide business license, but some counties and cities may require local permits. Check with your local government to confirm compliance based on your industry — especially for regulated activities like food service, construction, or healthcare.

7. Stay Compliant After Formation

Once your LLC is formed, you must maintain good standing by filing an Annual Report each year by your formation anniversary month.

• Annual Renewal Fee: $20

• Update your registered agent or business address when changes occur

• Maintain accurate company records

Failure to comply could lead to administrative dissolution or penalties.

How Accounting Services Can Help Your Utah LLC

Starting your LLC is only the first step — maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring tax compliance is where many small businesses need professional help. Counto’s accounting services in the US are designed specifically for US small businesses like yours.

With Counto, you get access to expert accountants who handle your bookkeeping, tax filings, and payroll compliance so you can focus on growth. Our smart automation and human expertise work together to keep your business finances clean, compliant, and ready for tax season — every year.

Summary

Forming an LLC in Utah is straightforward when you follow the right steps. You’ll start by selecting a unique name, appointing a registered agent, and filing the Certificate of Organization. From there, you can create an Operating Agreement, obtain your EIN, and meet any local licensing requirements. Keeping your LLC compliant with annual filings ensures long-term protection and credibility.

Your Books, Automated. Your Questions, Answered.

Manual bookkeeping eats into time you could spend growing your business. Traditional accounting services charge more but still need constant guidance. There’s a better way.

Counto’s modern accounting solution combines AI that learns your business with expert human oversight. Once our system understands your patterns, it handles daily bookkeeping automatically. Professional accountants review everything for accuracy, and you get instant access to your dedicated Customer Success Manager via SMS or phone—no more waiting for answers about your finances.

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