How long does it take to register a business in Colorado?

Processing times vary: 3-5 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Colorado?

Yes, most cities in Colorado require a general business license. Requirements vary by location and industry. Contact your local city or county clerk's office for specific requirements.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Colorado?

The LLC filing fee is $50. Annual fees are $10. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $150.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Colorado. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Colorado Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Colorado Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Colorado LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Colorado businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Colorado

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Colorado?

$50

Filing Fee

3-5

Processing (days)

680K

Total Businesses

85K/yr

New Businesses

Booming tech scene in Denver and Boulder

Low filing and annual fees

High quality of life attracting talent

Growing aerospace and renewable energy sectors

Starting a Business in Colorado

Top Cities for Business

Denver715,522
Colorado Springs488,664
Aurora395,159
Fort Collins174,195
Lakewood157,490

Popular Industries

Technology
Aerospace
Tourism
Energy
Healthcare

Cost to Start a Business in Colorado

LLC Filing Fee$50

Annual Report Fee$10/year

Name Reservation (optional)$25 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$150

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Colorado Tax Overview

Colorado has a flat 4.4% income tax. Sales tax is 2.9% state plus significant local additions.

Colorado Business Name Requirements

Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company"
Must be distinguishable

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Trust, Insurance

Business Name Ideas for Colorado

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Mile High Kitchen
Colorado Fresh Cuisine
Denver Table
Rocky Mountain Dining
Boulder Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Denver Cuts
Premium Grooming
Mile High Barbers
Classic Style
Colorado Shave
Expert Service

construction

Colorado Builders
Quality Construction
Mile High Build
Building CO
Denver Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Denver Strategy
Business Growth
Mile High Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Colorado Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Colorado Mercantile
Local Goods
Mile High Market
Quality Products
Denver Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Colorado Home Care
Complete Solutions
Mile High Services
Professional Care
Denver Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Denver Tech Labs
Innovation Hub
Mile High Digital
Tech Solutions
Colorado Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Colorado Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Mile High Medical
Patient Care
Denver Health Co.
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Colorado Properties
Dream Homes
Mile High Realty
Expert Service
Denver Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Denver Fitness
Peak Performance
Mile High Strong
Community Fitness
Colorado Athletics
Elite Training

Official Colorado Business Resources

Colorado Secretary of State

Business registration

Colorado Department of Revenue

Tax information

Colorado SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Colorado

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Colorado LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

File Periodic Report ($10)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
Obtain local licenses

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Colorado Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Colorado Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Colorado Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.