Curious about the LLC cost in Utah before launching your company? Whether you're forming a new business entity or expanding into the state, understanding every required filing fee, optional service, and legal obligation is essential. This guide is designed for entrepreneurs who want to make smart financial decisions and start an LLC without surprise expenses.
The total LLC cost in Utah starts at $59, which covers the mandatory filing fee for the Certificate of Organization. If you hire a registered agent service or use an LLC formation provider, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 more, plus $18 annually for the required report, optional business licenses depending on your location and industry, and potential tax obligations at the state and federal level.
In this complete breakdown, we’ll cover everything from state registration and annual report rules to optional expenses like a business license or LLC operating agreement. Whether you're DIY-ing the process or hiring a formation service, this guide will help you confidently form an LLC in Utah and plan for long-term compliance with the Utah Division of Corporations.
Utah LLC Cost Breakdown: A Quick Overview
If you are looking to start an LLC in Utah, the first thing you will probably want to know is how much it is going to cost. From the official filing fee charged by the state to optional upgrades, such as employing a registered agent service and getting professional help with paperwork – bringing an LLC in Utah can cost anywhere from $59 to $300+. Annual maintenance also incurs fees each year like an annual report, business licenses, and possible tax obligations. This guide lays out every cost clearly so you can budget with confidence and avoid hidden surprises.
What Is the Total Cost to Register an LLC in Utah?
To set up an LLC in Utah, you can pay a base filing fee of $59 to the Utah Division of Corporations when you submit your Certificate of Organization.If you want to be sure your name is available, you may want to search the state’s database before filing (learn how here). If you also require a registered agent service, add $100-$150 annually. You'll pay between $49 and $300 if you choose to pay for formation service assistance. Most entrepreneurs are likely going to spend between $59 and $350 to fully establish their business entity, depending they do it themselves (DIY) or hire help. If you don’t know where to start, Utah-specific guide on how to start an LLC walks you through every step from naming your business to filing your paperwork properly. With this knowledge at hand, you’ll be prepared to legally form an LLC without delays or hidden costs.
Utah LLC Startup Cost Summary:
| Expense | Cost Range | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Organization | $59 | Yes |
| Registered Agent Service | $100–$150/year | Yes (if not your address) |
| LLC Formation Service | $49–$300+ | Optional |
| Business License (varies) | $0–$200+ | Depends on location/industry |
| Operating Agreement (optional) | $0–$200+ | Strongly recommended |
| EIN (IRS application) | Free | Yes (for tax ID) |
How Much Does It Cost to Maintain an LLC in Utah Annually?
After the formation of your LLC, budgeting for reoccurring expenses each year will keep it active. These yearly charges may be less than the startup costs, but they are also essential to the Utah Division of Corporations to avoid punishments. Self-managing your business or hiring a professional registered agent service; either way, understanding the annual obligations is critical for financial planning.
The overall annual cost to maintain an LLC typically ranges from $18 to $300+, depending on which services and licenses you choose. To comply with state regulations, your business needs to at least file its annual report, maintain a registered agent, and make tax payments or local licensing requirements.
Annual LLC Maintenance Costs in Utah:
- Annual Report Fee – $18, due each year with the state.
- Registered Agent Fees – $100–$150 annually if you hire a service.
- Business License Renewals – Varies by city or industry (typically $20–$200+).
- Utah Tax Obligations – May include sales tax, state withholding, or industry-specific taxes.
Utah LLC Filing Fees and State Costs
The Utah Division of Corporations sets official filing requirements and non-negotiable state fees for all new business entities. To legally form an LLC in Utah, you must file a Certificate of Organization and pay the state’s standard filing fee. These state-mandated charges are fixed and must be paid whether you’re submitting online or by mail.
Utah Certificate of Organization Filing Fee ($59)
To create an LLC in Utah legally, you must submit a Certificate of Organization with the Utah Division of Corporations & Commercial Code. The formation document gives birth to your business entity and provides legal recognition from the state. The filing fee is $59 (fifty-nine dollars).
To file online, go to businessregistration.utah.gov and sign in using your UtahID. Typically, applications made online go through processing in 1-2 business days whereas applications via post can take 7-10 business days. When filing online, you may pay by card, while check is required for mailed submission.
Registering a Foreign LLC in Utah
If your existing limited liability company is formed in another state but wants to operate in Utah, you must register as a foreign LLC with the Utah Division of Corporations. The filing fee for foreign registration is $70, and you’ll need to appoint a registered agent in Utah and submit a completed Application for Authority to Transact Business along with a current Certificate of Good Standing from your home state.
Utah LLC Maintenance Costs: Annual Fees and Obligations
Forming your LLC in Utah is just the beginning – keeping it compliant means tracking several annual costs. From your required annual report to potential business license renewals and tax filings, these obligations are critical to avoid penalties or dissolution. Understanding these fees upfront helps you manage your business entity efficiently and budget for long-term operations.
Annual Report Fee ($18)
An annual report is required to be filed by every LLC in Utah every year. The filing fee is $18 and is due each year by the end of the LLC’s anniversary month. Reports can be filed online through the state portal. If you do not file on time, you may incur late fees, suffer administrative dissolution, and have to pay reinstatement fees to suit up your business entity.
Utah Registered Agent Service Costs
Every Utah LLC must have a registered agent that has an in-state address where the agent will be available during regular business hours. While you may be your own agent, a lot of businesses would rather just hire an actual registered agent service. These services ensure compliance, privacy, and reliability. This is especially the case if you work from home or out of state.
A professional registered agent in Utah will cost you $99 to $300 or more per year, depending on the service features, such as mail-forwarding, compliance alerts, and support. Depending on your business and budget, as well as if you want to bundle with a formation service will impact provider selection.
Comparison of Registered Agent Services in Utah:
| Provider | Annual Fee | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Registered Agent | $125 | Privacy by default, local scanning |
| ZenBusiness | $199 | Compliance alerts. Registered agent at $199/year; other business formation plans start from $0, but registered agent service is a separate charge. Optional bundle with formation, but not always included by default in lower tiers |
| Incfile (Bizee) | $119 | First year free with LLC formation, then $119/year for registered agent. Some higher plans have additional features |
| Harbor Compliance | $89–$99 | Full-service compliance management. Registered agent service at $89–$99 per state per year, depending on the state |
| LegalZoom | $199–$299 | Trusted brand, available add-ons. Registered agent service is $199 or $299 per year (sometimes listed as $249, recent sources mention $199 as the main rate; $299 refers to compliance bundles and premium add-ons) |
If you’re still weighing your options, this comparison of the best LLC services in Utah highlights the top-rated providers, their pricing, and key features tailored to local businesse. If you manage multiple business entities or need a solution beyond just Utah LLCs, this guide to registered agent services for entity owners ranks the most versatile nationwide providers.
State and Federal Tax Obligations
One of the advantages of forming an LLC in Utah is that the state does not charge a separate income tax on LLCs by default, instead, profits pass through to the owners and get reported on the owners’ personal returns. You must also take note of Utah sales tax, withholding taxes for employees, and of course, federal taxes on income to the IRS. The structure is flexible for tax purposes, though it is best to speak to an accountant to not miss any filing or incur liability you did not expect.
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Additional Operating and Startup Costs to Consider
Creating and operating an LLC in Utah will require you to incur some optional but important costs, apart from the ones required by the state. Examples lovided are satisfactory business license, good LLC operating agreement, hiring professionals for documents and compliance among others. While not required, these additional fees enhances your company’s organization, limits risks for liability, and prepares your business entity to thrive for the long run.
Business Licenses and Permit Fees in Utah
Most Utah businesses need at least one business license, although what you will require depends on where you are and what industry you are in. Understanding the difference between forming an LLC and having a business license is important. Because each serves a rather different purpose when it comes to law and operations. The Utah Tax Commission issues common statewide licenses called sales tax licenses. Others may apply based on your business activities.
Certain industries such as construction, food services, real estate, etc., need more licensing from state boards or associations. Depending on the nature of the operation and the complexity of the regulations, costs could range from $50 to $300+.
Moreover, you may need to acquire a local license or permit from your city or county. Just like in Salt Lake City, you’ll need to register your business with the local government and pay a commercial license fee. Always verify with your local authority and the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing for specific guidance.
EIN Application (Free vs. Third-Party Services)
Applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required for any LLC in Utah that plans to hire employees or open a business bank account. You can apply directly with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for free using their online form (irs.gov). However, many formation services offer expedited EIN registration for $50–$100. While paid services save time, most entrepreneurs can easily handle this step on their own at no cost. If you're a non-U.S. resident, this guide on how to open an LLC in the U.S. without citizenship or an SSN explains exactly how to apply and operate legally.
Operating Agreement Preparation
Even if it is not legally required in Utah, having an LLC operating agreement is advisable. This is an internal document for your business entity. This document describes your entity’s structure, ownership, and management roles and serves to help avoid and resolve disputes. Your LLC also needs to follow Utah Code Title 48-3a governing LLC formation and compliance, which provides legal requirements for LLCs in the state. Even single-member LLCs benefit from having one on file. If your operating agreement includes a purpose clause, this guide explains how to write a clear and legally sound LLC business purpose with real examples.
You can create a basic agreement using free templates, but professionally tailored agreements can cost from $50 to $500, depending on the provider. Investing in a solid operating agreement provides for long-range planning, guards your limited liability status, and helps show separation between personal and business finances.
Certified Copies and Document Fees
If you need official records of your LLC in Utah for your bank, contract or out-of-state registration, you may request certified copies from the Utah Division of Corporations. Each copy can be ordered for an additional fee of $12. You can also request apostille certificates. Depending on your business activities or compliance, these document fees are optional but often necessary.
Utah LLC Costs Compared to Other States
Although Utah’s $59 filing fee is one of the lowest in the country, it is important to see how it compares to other states. By comparing the costs, entrepreneurs find out where to set up their LLC and maintain it based on budget and business goals.
Some states have lower initial fees but higher annual costs, while others like Utah balance both. The impacts of registered agent fees, annual report requirements, and state taxes can make a big difference over time. If you are comparing the overall benefits of various states for LLC incorporation, then this guide to the best states to form an LLC discusses startup costs, privacy laws, and tax benefits. To figure out what annual fees you’re up against for your LLC, check out this state-by-state guide to LLC annual fees that breaks down renewal costs and compliance obligations across the U.S. Below is a comparison of LLC formation costs in popular states.
LLC Formation Costs by State (2025)
| State | Filing Fee | Annual Report / Tax | Registered Agent (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utah | $59 | $18 | $100–$150/year |
| Delaware | $110 (Certificate of Formation) | $300 (Flat-rate Franchise Tax) | $100–$300/year |
| California | $70 | $20 initial, then $20 biennial + $800 minimum annual franchise tax |
$100–$200/year |
| Texas | $300 | Public Information Report (free) + Franchise Tax (varies) |
$0–$125/year |
| Florida | $125 (includes $25 agent fee) | $138.75/year (Annual Report) | $100–$150/year |
| New York | $200 (excludes publication) | $9 (biennial) | $0–$300/year |
| Nevada | $425 (includes all state-mandated formation fees) |
$350/year (Annual List $150 + Business License Renewal $200) |
$100–$150/year |
| Wyoming | $100 | $60/year (minimum license tax) | $50–$200/year |
Frequently Asked Questions About Utah LLC Costs
Still have questions about the true cost of forming and maintaining an LLC in Utah? This section answers the most common concerns – from speed and state perks to annual fees and professional service costs. Let’s break it down clearly and simply.
How Fast Can You Get an LLC in Utah?
If you file online through the Utah Division of Corporations, your LLC in Utah is typically approved within 1–2 business days. Mail filings take 7–10 business days, not including mailing time. Expedited service is not required but filing online is the fastest route. Your LLC becomes official once the Certificate of Organization is processed and approved.
Is Utah a Good State to Form an LLC?
Yes, Utah is considered a highly favorable state to form an LLC, especially for small business owners. The state offers low startup costs, business-friendly regulations, and fast processing through the Utah Division of Corporations. Combine that with a skilled workforce and a growing economy, and Utah is a practical choice for many entrepreneurs.
Top 6 Benefits of Forming an LLC in Utah:
1. Low $59 state filing fee
2. Simple annual report requirements
3. Strong legal protections for business entities
4. No state-level corporate income tax on LLCs
5. Fast online approval system
6. Affordable registered agent service options
For the latest stats on small business growth and LLC activity in Utah, check out this breakdown of state-specific trends.
Can You File Your Utah LLC Application for Free?
No, all applicants must pay the $59 filing fee to the Utah Division of Corporations to officially form an LLC in Utah. However, you can apply for your EIN through the Internal Revenue Service at no cost. Be cautious of third-party services that charge for EIN applications, as the IRS process is completely free and easy to complete online.
What Happens If You Don't Pay the Annual Report Fee?
Failing to pay Utah’s $18 annual report fee can trigger late penalties and eventual administrative dissolution of your LLC in Utah. If the report remains unpaid past the grace period, the Utah Division of Corporations will revoke your LLC’s good standing. To reinstate it, you'll need to pay the missed fees plus a reinstatement charge and file the necessary documents — a process that can take several weeks and delay business operations.
How Much Do LLC Formation Services Cost in Utah?
Hiring an LLC formation service in Utah typically costs between $49 and $300, depending on the provider and included features. Basic packages often cover the Certificate of Organization and registered agent service, while premium options may include EIN registration, operating agreement templates, and compliance tracking. DIY filing is cheaper, but paid services save time and reduce filing errors.
Resources for Utah LLC Owners
Forming and maintaining an LLC in Utah is simple when you use the right resources. These trusted links help you file legally, understand costs, and avoid compliance pitfalls.
- Utah Division of Corporations
(corporations.utah.gov): File your Certificate of Organization, make updates, and complete annual renewals. - Utah Department of Commerce – Licensing
(commerce.utah.gov): Confirm whether your LLC needs a professional or local license to operate in Utah. - Utah State Tax Commission
(tax.utah.gov): Handle sales, withholding, or franchise taxes and register accounts through the Utah TAP system. - IRS – Apply for an EIN Online
(irs.gov): Get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) for free in minutes. - Investopedia – What Is a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?
(investopedia.com): A clear breakdown of what an LLC is, how it protects assets, and how it compares to other business types. - Wikipedia – Operating Agreement (LLC)
(en.wikipedia.org): Learn why this internal governance document matters—even in states like Utah that don’t mandate it. - 2023 SBA Utah Small Business Economic Profile
(advocacy.sba.gov): Analyze how small businesses and LLCs shape Utah’s economy.
These resources ensure your Utah LLC is formed correctly, stays compliant, and scales with confidence.
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