How to Register a Business Name in Wyoming [4 Easy Steps]

Founder & CEO, Newfoundrz
Passionate about helping small businesses establish LLCs

Lights flashing, heart racing, your eureka moment just hit - you've got a game-changing business idea.

All the pieces are falling into place, the only missing element?

A name, a captivating identity that will be the face of your entrepreneurial dream in the rugged, majestic plains of Wyoming.

Ah, the name!

This is where the magic truly begins.

The right name will do more than just identify your business. It’s your brand, your billboard, your story. It's your handshake to the world, offering a glimpse into what you do, who you are, and the incredible value you're ready to deliver.

But once that perfect name is brainstormed, scribbled on paper, or even loudly declared to the Wyoming winds in a moment of pure excitement, how do you make it yours?

What steps do you need to follow to ensure that it's uniquely yours and ready to use in the Equality State?

You might think the process is complex, filled with endless paperwork and legal jargon. But fear not, my aspiring entrepreneur. We've broken it down, sifted out the confusion, and paved the way for your journey.

With a blend of enthusiasm and practicality, this guide will take you from "Aha!" to "We're open!" in clear, straightforward steps. Whether you're a seasoned business tycoon, or just getting started on your entrepreneurial adventure, we've got you covered.

Let this article serve as your trusted guide, your map to registering your business name in Wyoming. We'll ensure your idea, that spark of brilliance, is carried forward from concept to concrete reality.

So, get ready. Because it's time to make your mark, register your Wyoming business name, and launch your vision in the stunning landscape of Wyoming. 

Here's how to do it. Get excited - you're about to become an official business owner in the Cowboy State! Let's get this rodeo started.

JUMP AHEAD

In this chapter:

Disclaimer: This Business Name Registration Guidebook ("Guidebook") is provided solely as a general informational resource and is not intended to serve as legal, tax, or professional advice. While it aims to offer broad insights into the process of selecting, registering, and trademarking business names across various states, it must not be relied upon as a comprehensive or definitive guide to the laws or regulations governing these areas.

Understanding the Importance of Registering a Business Name.

Key Takeaways:

  • Registering a business name in Wyoming is a legal requirement and an essential step towards establishing your brand identity.
  • The Wyoming Secretary of State is responsible for registering business names in the state.
  • The business name registration process involves conducting a name availability search, filling out the required paperwork, and paying the registration fees.

When starting a business in Wyoming, one of the crucial steps is registering a business name. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it also helps protect your brand and maintain professionalism.

Registering a business name in Wyoming is necessary to distinguish you from other businesses, and it ensures customers can easily identify your brand. Without a registered business name, you run the risk of having another business use the same name, which can lead to confusion and legal disputes.

Furthermore, registering a business name is a requirement for any business entity operating within the state of Wyoming. This includes corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships, and sole proprietorships.

By registering your business name with the Wyoming Secretary of State, you can also use it to secure your domain name, website, and social media handles. Additionally, it helps establish credibility with potential customers, lenders, and investors.

Overall, registering a business name in Wyoming is an essential step in starting and growing your business. It helps you stand out in a crowded market, provides legal protections, and enhances your brand image.

Step Instructions
Step 1 Visit the Wyoming Secretary of State's website at soswy.state.wy.us.
Step 2 Click on the "Business" tab on the homepage and select "Business Entities" from the dropdown menu.
Step 3 Enter the desired business name in the search bar and click "Search".
Step 4 The search results will display any existing businesses with the same or similar name. If no results are found, the name is likely available for registration.

Note that a business name availability search is not a substitute for a comprehensive trademark search, so it is recommended to consult with a legal professional before finalizing a business name.

Understanding the Business Name Registration Process in Wyoming.

Registering a business name in Wyoming involves several steps and requires specific forms and fees. As an aspiring business owner, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the process to ensure a smooth registration experience.

1. Required Paperwork and Forms.

The first step in registering a business name in Wyoming is to complete and submit the appropriate paperwork and forms. The Wyoming Secretary of State's office requires the following documents:

Required Documents Description
Articles of Organization A legal document that establishes the creation of a limited liability company (LLC) in Wyoming.
Articles of Incorporation A legal document that establishes the creation of a corporation in Wyoming.
Assumed Business Name Certificate A legal document that registers a business name in Wyoming and declares who the owners are.

Each form requires specific information, such as the business name, contact information, and the purpose of the business. It is essential to review each form carefully and ensure that all required fields are completed accurately.

2. Fees.

Along with the required documents, registering a business name in Wyoming requires payment of certain fees. The fees vary depending on the type of business and the services requested. Here are the current fees for registering a business name in Wyoming:

  • LLC filing fee: $100
  • Corporation filing fee: $100
  • Assumed business name registration fee: $100

It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it is always best to check the Wyoming Secretary of State's website for the most up-to-date information.

Overall, registering a business name in Wyoming involves submitting the appropriate paperwork, paying the required fees, and following all relevant state regulations and guidelines. By taking the time to understand the process, you can ensure a smooth and successful registration experience.

Reserving a Business Name in Wyoming

Reserving a business name in Wyoming can be a smart decision, especially if you're not ready to register your business yet.

A name reservation will allow you to "save" a name for a certain period of time, preventing someone else from registering it in the meantime.

When you reserve a business name in Wyoming, you'll be protecting your brand and ensuring that you can use your desired name once you're ready to register.

A name reservation is also useful if you're planning to launch your business in the future, but need time to prepare and finalize your business plans.

Duration: 120 days

Fee: $50

The process of reserving a business name in Wyoming is straightforward. You can submit your application online or by mail, and the Wyoming Secretary of State will typically approve or deny your request within a few days.

It's important to note that a name reservation doesn't guarantee that you can use your desired name as your business name. If someone else has already registered a similar name, you may not be able to use yours without infringing on their intellectual property rights.

Steps to reserve a business name in Wyoming:

  1. Visit the Wyoming Secretary of State's website and search for the Business Name Reservation form.
  2. Fill out the form with your desired business name, your contact information, and the requested duration of the name reservation.
  3. Pay the $50 filing fee by credit card or check.
  4. Submit the form online or by mail to the Wyoming Secretary of State.
  5. Wait for confirmation of your name reservation.

Once you receive confirmation of your name reservation, you'll have 120 days to complete the business registration process in Wyoming. If you don't complete registration within this timeframe, you'll need to file for a name reservation again if you still want to reserve your desired business name.

Reserving a business name in Wyoming can be a smart move for entrepreneurs who want to protect their brand and ensure they can use their desired name. By following the simple steps above, you can easily reserve your business name and take the first step towards starting your business in Wyoming.

Filing a DBA in Wyoming

If you're operating a business under a name that's different than your given name or the legal name of your company, you'll need to file a "Doing Business As" or DBA.

This is also known as a trade name or fictitious name.

In Wyoming, you'll need to file for a DBA with the Secretary of State. This can be done online through the Wyoming Business Center.

Step Action
1 Conduct a business name availability search to ensure the desired DBA is available.
2 Fill out the DBA registration form and submit it to the Wyoming Secretary of State.
3 Pay the required fee.
4 Wait for approval from the Secretary of State.

The fee for filing a DBA in Wyoming is currently $100. The registration is valid for five years and can be renewed for an additional fee.

It's important to note that filing a DBA does not provide legal protection for your business name. To protect your name, you may want to consider trademark registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Additional Legal Requirements for Business Registration in Wyoming.

Registering a business name in Wyoming may require more than just filing the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State's office.

Depending on the nature of your business, you may also need to obtain a business license, register as an LLC or corporation, or protect your intellectual property through trademark registration.

Requirement Description
Business License A Wyoming business license is required for certain types of businesses, such as liquor stores and retail shops. To obtain a license, you may need to provide documentation such as a lease agreement, zoning permit, and tax identification number.
LLC or Corporation Registration If you plan to operate your business as a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation in Wyoming, you'll need to file the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State's office. This may include articles of organization or articles of incorporation, depending on the business entity type.
Trademark Registration If your business has a unique name, logo, or slogan that you want to protect, you may need to register for a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or the Wyoming Secretary of State's office. This can prevent others from using your intellectual property without your permission.

It's important to note that these additional legal requirements may involve additional fees and paperwork. Be sure to research and understand all the necessary steps for your specific business before moving forward with registration.

Understanding Business Registration Fees in Wyoming

When registering a business name in Wyoming, there are several fees to consider.

These fees are determined by the Wyoming Secretary of State and can vary depending on the type of registration you need. It is important to be aware of these fees and budget accordingly to avoid any unforeseen expenses.

The following is a breakdown of fees associated with registering a business name in Wyoming:

Service Fee
Business Name Registration $100
Name Reservation $50
DBA Filing $20

Note that these fees are subject to change, so it is important to check with the Wyoming Secretary of State for current pricing.

In addition to these fees, additional costs may be associated with registering a business in Wyoming, such as obtaining a business license or trademark registration. These fees are not determined by the Wyoming Secretary of State and may vary depending on the type of business and industry.

Accepted payment methods for registration fees include electronic check, credit card, or debit card. Checks should be made payable to the "Wyoming Secretary of State."

It is important to note that fees are non-refundable, even if your business name registration is not approved. Therefore, it is recommended to conduct a thorough business name availability search before applying for registration to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registering a business name in Wyoming is a necessary step in starting your own business. Not only does it establish your brand identity and protect your company from being copied by others, but it is also mandated by Wyoming state law.

By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can easily navigate through the process of registering a business name, conducting a name availability search, reserving a name, filing a DBA, and fulfilling any additional legal requirements.

Remember, starting a business can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By registering your business name in Wyoming, you will be one step closer to achieving your entrepreneurial dreams. Good luck!

FAQs

Q: How do I register a business name in Wyoming?

A: To register a business name in Wyoming, you need to follow the process outlined by the Wyoming Secretary of State. This involves conducting a business name availability search, submitting the required paperwork and forms, and paying the necessary fees.

Q: Why is it important to register a business name?

A: Registering a business name in Wyoming is important for several reasons. It ensures legal compliance, protects your brand, and helps maintain professionalism. It also allows you to establish a distinct identity for your business in the marketplace.

Q: How can I check if a business name is available in Wyoming?

A: You can check the availability of a business name in Wyoming by using the Wyoming Secretary of State's website and the Wyoming Business Entity Search tool. These tools allow you to search for existing business names and see if your desired name is already taken.

Q: What is the process for registering a business name in Wyoming?

A: The process for registering a business name in Wyoming involves submitting the necessary paperwork, forms, and fees to the Wyoming Secretary of State. You will need to provide information about your business, such as its legal structure and contact details. The Wyoming Secretary of State's website provides detailed instructions on how to complete the registration process.

Q: Can I reserve a business name in Wyoming?

A: Yes, you can reserve a business name in Wyoming. Name reservation allows you to secure a desired business name for a specific period of time before officially registering it. The process involves submitting a name reservation request to the Wyoming Secretary of State and paying the required fees.

Q: What is a DBA and how can I file for it in Wyoming?

A: DBA stands for "Doing Business As." If you wish to operate your business under a name different from your legal entity name, you will need to file a DBA in Wyoming. The process involves submitting the necessary paperwork and fees to the Wyoming Secretary of State. This allows you to legally use a different business name while maintaining your legal entity.

Q: Are there any additional legal requirements for business registration in Wyoming?

A: Yes, there are additional legal requirements for business registration in Wyoming. These may include obtaining a business license, registering an LLC or corporation, and trademark registration for protecting intellectual property. It is important to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and laws.

Q: What are the business registration fees in Wyoming?

A: The business registration fees in Wyoming vary depending on the type of registration and any additional services requested. There are fees for registering a business name, reserving a name, filing a DBA, and other related services. The Wyoming Secretary of State's website provides a detailed breakdown of these fees and accepted payment methods.

CEO & Co-Founder

Nick Cotter

Nick is a seasoned entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in establishing and managing successful Limited Liability Companies (LLCs).