Introduction
Starting a business or researching an existing one in Utah can feel overwhelming, but the Utah Business Entity Search simplifies the process. This powerful online tool, provided by the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code, allows users to access public records of businesses registered in the state. Whether you’re an entrepreneur checking if your desired business name is available, a professional conducting due diligence, or someone verifying a company’s legitimacy, this search is invaluable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use the Utah business entity search, explore its features, and explain related processes like name availability checks and trademark searches. By the end, you’ll feel confident navigating this tool to support your business goals. Let’s get started with this essential resource for Utah’s business community.
How to Access the Utah Business Entity Search
The Utah Business Entity Search is hosted by the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code and is accessible online at https://secure.utah.gov/bes/. This portal operates 24/7, allowing you to conduct searches at your convenience without needing a login for basic queries. However, occasional maintenance may occur during evening hours, so plan accordingly. For those specifically checking business name availability, a dedicated tool is available at https://businessregistration.utah.gov/NameAvailabilitySearch. These platforms reflect Utah’s commitment to transparency, making it easy for anyone to access critical business information. To ensure the best experience, use a Chrome-based browser, as recommended by the state. With these tools, you can quickly verify business details or start the process of forming your own company.
Types of Searches Available
The Utah Business Entity Search offers multiple search options to meet various needs. First, the Business Name Search is the most popular, enabling you to look up businesses by their name or a portion of it. This is ideal for checking if a company exists or researching competitors. Second, the Entity Number Search allows you to find a specific business using its unique entity number, which is useful if you have this identifier. Finally, the Executive Name Search lets you find businesses associated with a specific individual, such as an officer or director, though it requires a $3 fee. Each option provides access to public records, including business status, type, and registration details. These searches empower users to make informed decisions, whether starting a new venture or verifying a partner’s credentials.
Performing a Business Name Search
- Visit the Portal: Go to https://secure.utah.gov/bes/. This site is available 24/7 for your convenience.
- Choose Search Type: Select the “Business Name” option on the main page.
- Enter the Name: Type the business name or a key part of it into the search field. Omit designators like “LLC” or “Inc.” for broader results. For example, search “Mountain Valley” instead of “Mountain Valley Solutions LLC.”
- Refine Your Query: Use filters like “Starts With,” “Contains,” or “Exact Match” to narrow results. The search is case-insensitive, so “MOUNTAIN” and “mountain” work the same. Avoid special characters like apostrophes, as they may not register.
- Execute the Search: Click “Search” to view results.
- Review Results: The system displays up to 100 businesses per page, listed alphabetically, with details like business name, entity number, status, type, city, state, and registration date.
- Access Details: Click a business name or “Details” link for more information, such as the registered agent or filing history.
Understanding Search Results
- Business Name: The official registered name.
- Entity Number: A unique identifier assigned by the state.
- Status: Indicates whether the business is Active, Delinquent, Expired, Dissolved, Withdrawn, or Revoked.
- Type: Specifies the entity type, such as LLC, Corporation, or DBA.
- City and State: The business’s registered location.
- Registration Date: The date the business was officially registered.
Viewing Detailed Business Information
- Principal Address: The business’s main address.
- Registered Agent: The person or entity authorized to receive legal documents.
- Filing History: A record of all state filings, such as annual reports or amendments.
- Management Structure: For some entities, details about officers, directors, or managers.
- Registration Date: The exact date of registration.
- Business Purpose: A description of the business’s activities, if provided.
Name Availability Search
Checking business name availability in Utah is a key step for new businesses. Use the dedicated tool at https://businessregistration.utah.gov/NameAvailabilitySearch. Enter your desired name without designators like “LLC” or “Inc.” and click “Search.” If the name is available, you’ll see “The name is available.” If not, the system shows details of the conflicting business. Note that this check doesn’t guarantee availability at registration, so act quickly. For instance, if you want “Tech Innovations LLC” and it’s available, proceed with registration promptly to secure it. This tool is essential for ensuring your business name is unique and compliant.
Trademark Search
Beyond business names, you may need to check for trademark conflicts to protect your brand. The Utah trademark search is available at https://secure.utah.gov/trademark/search/index.html. Enter keywords related to your name or logo and choose to search active or expired trademarks. This helps you avoid infringing on existing intellectual property. For example, if your business name is “Peak Pulse,” a trademark search ensures it’s not already protected. Conducting both a business entity and trademark search provides comprehensive protection for your brand identity.
Reserving a Business Name
If you find an available name but aren’t ready to register, you can reserve it by filing an “Application for Reservation of Business Name” with the Utah Division of Corporations. The fee is $22, and the reservation lasts 120 days. You can renew it once for another 120 days for an additional $22. This option is ideal if you’re still planning your business but want to secure a unique name. For example, reserving “Tech Innovations LLC” ensures no one else can claim it while you prepare your formation documents.
Business Name Requirements in Utah
- LLCs: Must include “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC,” “L.C.,” or “LC.”
- Corporations: Must include “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Company,” “Corp.,” “Inc.,” or “Co.”
- Prohibited Terms: Words like “FBI,” “Bank,” or “Attorney” require authorization.
- Distinguishability: Names must be unique, with different keywords, spellings, or contexts.
Benefits of Using Utah Business Entity Search
- Verify Existence: Confirm a company’s legal registration before partnerships or contracts.
- Check Name Availability: Ensure your business name is unique.
- Research Competitors: Learn about competitors’ registration dates and statuses.
- Ensure Compliance: Verify that businesses you work with are in good standing.
- Access Records: Obtain details like registered agents and filing histories.
Common Use Cases
- Starting a Business: Verify name availability and understand registration requirements.
- Due Diligence: Confirm a company’s legal standing before investing.
- Legal Proceedings: Locate registered agents for serving documents.
- Market Research: Identify industry competitors and trends.
- Personal Research: Check the legitimacy of service providers or contractors.
Example: Searching for a Business Name
- Visit https://businessregistration.utah.gov/NameAvailabilitySearch.
- Enter “Peak Pulse” (without “LLC”).
- Click “Search.”
Understanding Business Statuses
| Status | Description |
| Active | In good standing, with all filings and fees up to date. |
| Delinquent | Missed annual reports or fees but still legally exists. |
| Expired | Registration lapsed, eligible for reinstatement within 2 years. |
| Dissolved | Formally or administratively closed, no longer exists. |
| Withdrawn | Foreign entities no longer registered to operate in Utah. |
| Revoked | State revoked authority due to non-compliance. |
Next Steps After Searching
- Form Your Business: File a Certificate of Organization for an LLC ($59) or Articles of Incorporation for a corporation ($70 for profit, $30 for nonprofit).
- Obtain Licenses: Secure city, county, or professional licenses as needed.
- Register for Taxes: Use https://tap.utah.gov/ for Sales Tax ID and employer taxes.
- Get an EIN: Obtain a free Employer Identification Number from the IRS website.
Conclusion
The Utah Business Entity Search is a vital tool for anyone navigating Utah’s business landscape. Whether you’re starting a new venture, researching competitors, or verifying a company’s status, this resource provides critical insights to guide your decisions. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently use the search to check name availability, access public records, and ensure compliance. Don’t wait—visit https://secure.utah.gov/bes/ to start your search today. For additional support, consider a trusted business formation service to streamline your journey. Empower your business with the right information and take the next step toward success!
FAQs
How long is a business name reservation valid?
It lasts 120 days and can be renewed once for another 120 days ($22 fee).
Is there a cost for a business entity search?
Basic and entity number searches are free; executive name searches cost $3.
What’s the difference between a business entity search and a trademark search?
The former checks registered businesses; the latter checks protected intellectual property.
Can I register a similar business name?
No, names must be distinguishable to avoid confusion.
How do I get a Certificate of Existence?
Order it through the search portal for $12.
When is a dissolved name available?
After the 2-year reinstatement period.
References:
- Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code: https://corporations.utah.gov/
- Utah Business Entity Search: https://secure.utah.gov/bes/
- ZenBusiness: https://www.zenbusiness.com/utah-business-search/
- Business Anywhere: https://businessanywhere.io/how-to-do-a-utah-business-entity-search/