How to File a Utah Certificate of Organization (LLC Formation Document)

Overview

Utah does not use the term "articles of organization." The formation document for a Utah LLC is the Certificate of Organization, filed with the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Corporations and Commercial Code (there is no Secretary of State filing in Utah). Most filings are submitted online and many are approved the same day.

Before you file

• Name: search the Division's business name database to confirm your desired name is distinguishable from existing registrations. The name must include a designator such as "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company."
• Registered agent: name a person or company with a physical Utah street address who will accept legal documents during business hours.
• Principal address: the LLC's main business address.
• Organizer: the person filing the certificate (can be a member or someone acting on their behalf).
• Registered agent consent: the agent must consent to serve; keep a record of it.

How to file

1. Go to the Division's Business Registration System at businessregistration.utah.gov (you will need a UtahID account).
2. Select the option to form/register a new LLC and complete the Certificate of Organization fields.
3. Pay the state filing fee (listed at approximately $59; verify the current fee on the Division's fee schedule before paying).
4. Submit. The Division reports most online filings approved instantly or within two to four business days.
5. Save the stamped/approved certificate the system returns.

After filing

• Apply for an EIN with the IRS (free).
• Adopt an operating agreement.
• Check city/county business license requirements.
• Open a business bank account.
• Calendar your first annual renewal (due in your anniversary month, beginning the year after formation).

Common mistakes

• Filing under a name too similar to an existing entity and getting rejected.
• Naming a registered agent without their consent.
• Assuming the filing alone completes setup (EIN, licenses, and bank account still follow).