How to File a DBA in Wyoming

Before you can open the doors to your company, you need to give it a name. When you look at how to start a new business in Wyoming, you’ll see it requires choosing a name and updating the state on what that name is, as well as any versions of the name that you may also use. It is not uncommon for a business to operate under multiple names or use a slightly different name from your legally recognized name.

If you plan to use any other name to reference your business, you should consider filing a “Doing Business As” (DBA) with the state. Doing so ensures the state and others recognize related business names as a component of or the same as your business. While it is not mandatory to file a DBA, it is beneficial to do so in most situations.

Wyoming requires you to take several steps to set up a DBA, and doing so correctly minimizes confusion or errors. Generally, the process is straightforward and inexpensive. Let’s break down what that process is and what you can expect from it.

What is a DBA (“Doing Business As”)?

A DBA, which Wyoming calls a trade name (it may also be called a “fictitious name” or “assumed name”), is a different term, spelling, or expression of the way a company communicates its name. It allows a business to operate under a different name other than what its legally recognized name is. In essence, instead of having to spell out your entire legal name on every piece of marketing you create, you can use this name instead.

A DBA is a trading name you can use once you register it with the state of Wyoming. You can then use it for marketing, invoices, opening a bank account, creating vendor agreements, or most other business-specific needs. All types of businesses can use a DBA. That includes sole proprietors, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations.

Benefits of a DBA

A DBA provides numerous benefits to those who use it. If your legal business name is quite simple and direct, without any added designations on it, using that name may be just fine. However, for a business that wants to offer something other than its legal name, a DBA is beneficial.

Individuals can register a trade name too, so a sole proprietor can do business under a brand name without forming a business entity. A registered trade name is on file with the Secretary of State for 10 years.

Disadvantages of a DBA

A DBA is beneficial if you use it within the limitations it presents. For example, it does not grant you any liability protection like an LLC would. That is because the DBA itself is not a recognized business entity. The only purpose it provides is a way for you to allow your business to operate under a fictitious name other than what your company is legally recognized as. That means you may still need to seek an LLC to gain protections for your company.

Operating under an unregistered DBA

Wyoming doesn’t require you to register a trade name, and there’s no state penalty for not registering. Registering puts your name on record, and banks often ask for proof of a trade name before opening an account under it. Here is an example of when it helps.

You operate a tourism business in Casper called “Jane’s Casper Adventure Group Trip Planning LLC.” However, you know that’s a mouthful and want to use “Jane’s Casper Adventure” in your signage, marketing, and contracts. Registering a DBA for this shorter name makes sense.

Tax considerations

How does having a DBA change your tax obligations? It doesn’t. Remember that this is not a new business. It does not change the way your company is taxed in any way. It is not a business structure in itself. Whatever is applicable to your current business structure continues to apply. A DBA also doesn’t replace any licenses or permits your Wyoming business needs.

Filing for a trade name (DBA) in Wyoming

To file a DBA in Wyoming, you’ll need to file a document with the state that alerts them to your use of this name. The process is not challenging, but you do have to get it right. You also need to know a few of the rules that are applicable in the state.

Name requirements

First, think about the name you want to use. The trade name can’t be the same as or deceptively similar to a Wyoming-registered trademark, and it must be distinguishable from other business names on the Secretary of State’s records (W.S. 40-2-102). Names with banking or insurance words are restricted. If there are any other businesses with a very similar name, you may be unable to use what you selected.

Begin with a Wyoming trade name search

Now you need to make sure the name you’ve selected is available to you. To start, perform a Wyoming business entity search using the Wyoming Secretary of State’s website. Just type in the name you want to use, and it will search the database to determine if anyone else has a name that is the same or very similar.

This process will check to determine if your trade name is available. The name must already be in use in Wyoming before you register it. If you aren’t using it yet, you can reserve a trade name for 120 days for $30.

Steps to register your Wyoming trade name

Once you’re using the name, you can complete the registration. To do so, follow these steps.

Step 1: Fill out the application

You can download and print or fill out the Application for Registration of Trade Name from the Secretary of State’s website. You can fill it out in the PDF on the screen. Be thorough and accurate in your completion of the form. You will need to provide:

• The trade name you are registering.
• The complete description of your business, including the legal name of your business.
• The date you first used the name in Wyoming.

You will also need to describe what your business does and provide a contact name, address, phone number, and an email address (required) in case there are questions. The application also requires you to list whether your business is a registered LLC, statutory trust, statutory foundation, corporation, or other business formation. If you’re registering for an LLC or corporation, it must be registered and in good standing with the Secretary of State.

Step 2: Print and mail the application

Once you complete the application, you will need to print it and then mail it to the Wyoming Secretary of State at the following address:

Wyoming Secretary of State

Herschler Building East, Suite 101, 122 W 25th Street

Cheyenne, WY 82002-0020

Step 3: Pay the filing fee

You will need to pay a $100 filing fee to register your trade name. You will need to send either a check or a money order that is made payable to the Wyoming Secretary of State. See our Wyoming LLC cost breakdown for other state fees.  

You must also have your DBA application form notarized officially. Doing this helps to show its validity to the state.

Submit all of this information by mail. Processing takes up to 15 business days after the state receives the form. Expedited filing isn’t available for trade names.

Filing online vs. by mail

You cannot file your DBA with the state online in Wyoming. You cannot email your application. It must be signed, dated, and mailed with payment.

If you file a document that is missing information, the state can’t process an incomplete form. You may not learn of this for some time. Double-check the completion of your information before submitting.

Conclusion

In Wyoming, registering a trade name is optional, but it can help your marketing, branding and banking.

A DBA can be an important way for the public to identify your business, too. If you’re forming an LLC, understanding how to start an LLC in Wyoming can help you determine when a DBA makes sense as part of your broader business and branding strategy. The good news is that the process is straightforward and should not take you too long to complete. Once done, the state recognizes the DBA for 10 years, and you are likely to be able to renew it over time. You can apply to renew your application six months prior to it expiring. Renewal costs $50 (W.S. 40-2-105), and the Secretary of State sends a reminder about six months before expiration.

Registering a trade name is inexpensive, and you can file it whenever you’re ready.

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