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

Processing times vary: 1-2 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 Delaware?

Yes, most cities in Delaware 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 Delaware?

The LLC filing fee is $90. Annual fees are $300. 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 $500.

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 Delaware. 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 Delaware 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.

Delaware Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Delaware

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Delaware?

$90

Filing Fee

1-2

Processing (days)

1.8M

Total Businesses

200K/yr

New Businesses

Most business-friendly state in US

No sales tax

Court of Chancery for business disputes

65% of Fortune 500 incorporated here

Starting a Business in Delaware

Top Cities for Business

Wilmington70,898
Dover39,403
Newark33,387
Middletown22,350
Bear21,600

Popular Industries

Finance
Healthcare
Corporate Services
Manufacturing
Agriculture

Cost to Start a Business in Delaware

LLC Filing Fee$90

Annual Report Fee$300/year

Name Reservation (optional)$75 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$500

Processing time: 1-2 business days

Delaware Tax Overview

Delaware has income tax rates from 2.2-6.6%. Corporate franchise tax is $300 minimum. No sales tax.

Delaware 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 Delaware

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

restaurant

First State Table
Delaware Cuisine
Wilmington Kitchen
Mid-Atlantic Dining
Blue Hen Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Wilmington Cuts
Premium Grooming
First State Barbers
Classic Style
Delaware Shave
Expert Service

construction

Delaware Builders
Quality Construction
First State Build
Building DE
Wilmington Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Wilmington Strategy
Business Growth
First State Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Delaware Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Delaware Mercantile
Local Goods
First State Market
Quality Products
Wilmington Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Delaware Home Care
Complete Solutions
First State Services
Professional Care
Wilmington Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Wilmington Tech
Innovation
First State Digital
Tech Solutions
Delaware Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Delaware Wellness
Quality Healthcare
First State Medical
Patient Care
Wilmington Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Delaware Properties
Dream Homes
First State Realty
Expert Service
Wilmington Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Wilmington Fitness
Peak Performance
First State Strong
Community Fitness
Delaware Athletics
Elite Training

Official Delaware Business Resources

Delaware Division of Corporations

Business registration

Delaware Division of Revenue

Tax information

Delaware SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Delaware

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

Pay Annual Franchise Tax ($300+)
Maintain registered agent
File Annual Report
No sales tax to collect

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

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Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Delaware 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 Delaware 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 Delaware Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.