What is a DBA (doing business as) in Wyoming?
If a business wants to operate under a different name than the one used to form the business, it may have to register the new name with the state. For example, if Frank's Hot Dogs, LLC wants to do business as "Frankie’s Dogs," then the owners should register this trade name with the state.
This process is generally called filing for a DBA, or "doing business as," although they are also referred to as fictitious names. For Wyoming LLCs, corporations, and other business entities, these alternative names are officially referred to as "trade names" rather than DBAs, and are governed by Title 40, Chapter 2 of the state’s statutes.
A trade name allows businesses to:
- Operate under a more marketable or descriptive name.
- Create separate brand identities for different product lines.
- Use a name that better reflects the business's services.
- Establish a professional presence without forming a new legal entity.
Note that filing a DBA is not the same as forming a business. A trade name allows your existing LLC, corporation, or partnership to operate under a different name.
Do you need to file a DBA in Wyoming?
The state of Wyoming does not require the filing of a DBA designation in order for a business to operate under a trade name within the state. This makes Wyoming unique compared to many other states where DBA registration is mandatory for businesses operating under assumed names.
That said, Wyoming does allow companies to register for a trade name if they wish. Businesses might decide to do this even though it isn't required for several reasons, including to:
- Open a bank account under the fictitious name.
- Clear up any confusion with another business operating under a similar name.
- Enter into contracts using the business name.
- Establish legitimacy with customers and vendors.
- Create a public record of the name usage.
Unlike states such as California, Texas, or New York, where DBA registration is mandatory, Wyoming's voluntary approach gives businesses more flexibility.
How to register a DBA in Wyoming: Step-by-step guide
While not required, registering your trade name in Wyoming follows a straightforward process through the Wyoming Secretary of State.
Step 1: Choose your trade name
If you haven’t already chosen your trade name, this is an important first step. Under Wyoming law, a trade name can’t contain any of the following:
- Business entity suffixes such as LLC, Corporation, Inc., and so on, unless it is your actual business structure.
- Words related to academics, like college, education, or university, unless you have approval from the Wyoming Department of Education.
- Words related to finance, such as bank, banker, or trust, unless you have prior approval from the Wyoming Division of Banking.
Step 2: Search the Wyoming business name database
Wyoming does not allow you to register a trade name that is the same as, or deceptively similar to, a trademark, service mark, or business entity name that’s already registered in the state. To see if the name you'd like to use is available, you’ll need to conduct a Wyoming business search.
You can use the Wyoming Secretary of State's business search tool to ensure your desired trade name isn't already in use by another registered business entity. LegalZoom also provides DBA registration services, which can help ensure your filing is accurate and provide peace of mind.
Step 3: Verify first use in Wyoming
In Wyoming, you must be actively using the trade name in Wyoming commerce before you can register it with the state. You’ll need to include the date you first used your trade name on your DBA application, known as the “date of first use.”
If you haven’t used your desired trade name yet, you’ll need to use it in commerce, which means sell goods or provide services under that name. Your business also needs to be registered and in good standing with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
Step 4: Fill out the trade name registration form
If the name you want is available and you're already using it in Wyoming, you’re ready to file your DBA. In Wyoming, you’ll use the Application for Registration of Trade Name, available on the Secretary of State’s website. The form includes helpful instructions for filing and using the trade name in commerce.
You must provide the following information on your trade name registration:
- The name and business address of the applicant for the trade name
- The trade name to be registered
- The general nature of business conducted by the applicant
- The date the name was first used in Wyoming
- The name, phone number, and email of a contact person, which can be yourself
- The notarized signature of the applicant
Step 5: Submit your application and fee
You can only file a DBA by mail in Wyoming. Submit the completed form along with the required $100 filing fee to:
Wyoming Secretary of State
2020 Carey Avenue, Suite 700
Cheyenne, WY 82002-0020
Step 6: Retain your certificate of evidence
An email address is required on the Wyoming Application for Registration of Trade Name so that the Secretary of State can send you notices and filing evidence. Once the office processes your application, you’ll receive a certificate of evidence confirming your DBA application has been filed. Keep this somewhere safe so you have it if you need it for any reason.
Costs and processing times for Wyoming DBAs
Filing fees
The current filing fee for trade name registration in Wyoming is $100. This fee is subject to change, so verify the current amount on the Wyoming Secretary of State's website before submitting your application.
Processing timeline
Processing can take up to 15 business days once it’s received, and there are no expedited services. You can visit the Wyoming Secretary of State’s business center and search for your business entity to see if it is in the database yet, or wait for your certificate of evidence.
Renewal requirements
Trade name registrations in Wyoming are valid for 10 years from the date of registration. Unlike some states that require annual renewals, Wyoming's longer renewal period results in lower administrative burden for businesses.
How to renew, change, or cancel a Wyoming trade name
Renew your Wyoming trade name
Wyoming trade name registrations must be renewed every 10 years. To renew your trade name:
- Fill out an Application for Renewal of Trade Name Registration.
- Confirm continued use of the trade name in Wyoming.
- Provide the date of initial registration of your trade name.
- Provide an email address to receive your certificate of evidence and other notices.
- Mail it to the Wyoming Secretary of State along with the $50 filing fee.
Change your trade name
There is no official process to amend a DBA in Wyoming. If you decide you want to do business under another trade name, you’ll simply register a new trade name. The process is similar to registering your first trade name:
- First confirm that name is available and begin using it so that you have a “date of first use” for your DBA application.
- File a new Application for Registration of Trade Name with the Wyoming Secretary of State to register the new name.
Cancel your trade name
To cancel your trade name registration, file a Cancellation of Trade Name with the Wyoming Secretary of State. This is important if you stop using the name, as it removes it from the public record and allows others to potentially use it.
Tax, legal, and banking considerations for Wyoming trade names
Tax implications
A trade name doesn't change how your company is taxed. Your business structure (LLC, corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship) determines your tax obligations, not your trade name registration status.
Legal protection limitations
A Wyoming trade name registration:
- Does not provide trademark protection.
- Does not create liability protection (only business entity formation does this).
- Does not prevent others from using similar names in other states.
- Does create a public record of your name usage in Wyoming.
If you want further protection for your business name, consider registering a trademark. You can get trademark protection from the state of Wyoming, but if you want your name protected across the country, you will need to register with the federal U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Banking with a trade name
Most banks will require documentation of your trade name registration to open a business account under your DBA. Having an official certificate from the Wyoming Secretary of State makes this process smoother and more credible.
File your Wyoming DBA with LegalZoom
When you’re ready to file a trade name in Wyoming, LegalZoom can help you take care of it. We will search registered business names for conflicts and file the paperwork on your behalf. Plus, you get a few other perks, like a free tax consult and a website powered by our partner, Wix. If you opt for our premium plan, you also get 30 days of support from a dedicated attorney with unlimited 30-minute consults about new legal questions.
FAQs about Wyoming DBAs
Is a DBA required in Wyoming?
No, Wyoming does not require businesses to register a DBA, referred to by the WY Secretary of State as a trade name. Registration is voluntary but can provide benefits for banking, contracting, and business credibility.
Can I have multiple trade names in Wyoming?
Yes, a business can register multiple trade names in Wyoming. Each trade name must be unique and requires a separate registration and fee.
Does a Wyoming DBA protect my business name?
A trade name registration creates a public record but does not provide trademark protection. For broader name protection, consider state or federal trademark registration.
How do I open a bank account with a DBA?
Most banks require a copy of your trade name registration certificate along with your other business formation documents to open an account under your trade name.
What's the difference between a DBA and an LLC in Wyoming?
A DBA is simply a way to inform the government and the public that you are operating under a name other than your registered business name. An LLC is an actual legal business entity that provides liability protection for business operations. All of your business operations under a DBA are still associated with your formal business entity.
Are there publication requirements for Wyoming DBAs?
No, Wyoming does not require publication of DBA registrations in newspapers, unlike many other states.
Where do I file a DBA in Wyoming?
All trade name registrations are filed with the Wyoming Secretary of State's office. You can file either by mail or in person.
Sam Eichner contributed to this article.
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