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

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 Idaho?

Idaho does not require a state-level business license, but individual cities and counties may have their own requirements. Check with your local government for specific licensing needs.

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 Idaho?

The LLC filing fee is $100. 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 $200.

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 Idaho. 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 Idaho 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.

Idaho Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Idaho

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Idaho?

$100

Filing Fee

3-5

Processing (days)

200K

Total Businesses

25K/yr

New Businesses

Fastest growing state

No annual report required

Booming tech scene in Boise

Low tax burden

Starting a Business in Idaho

Top Cities for Business

Boise235,684
Meridian117,635
Nampa100,200
Idaho Falls64,597
Caldwell61,207

Popular Industries

Technology
Agriculture
Manufacturing
Tourism
Healthcare

Cost to Start a Business in Idaho

LLC Filing Fee$100

Name Reservation (optional)$20 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$200

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Idaho Tax Overview

Idaho has income tax rates from 1-5.8%. Corporate tax is 5.8%. Sales tax is 6%.

Idaho 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 Idaho

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

restaurant

Gem State Table
Idaho Cuisine
Boise Kitchen
Mountain Dining
Idaho Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Boise Cuts
Premium Grooming
Gem State Barbers
Classic Style
Idaho Shave
Expert Service

construction

Idaho Builders
Quality Construction
Gem State Build
Building ID
Boise Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Boise Strategy
Business Growth
Gem State Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Idaho Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Idaho Mercantile
Local Goods
Gem State Market
Quality Products
Boise Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Idaho Home Care
Complete Solutions
Gem State Services
Professional Care
Boise Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Boise Tech
Innovation
Gem State Digital
Tech Solutions
Idaho Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Idaho Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Gem State Medical
Patient Care
Boise Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Idaho Properties
Dream Homes
Gem State Realty
Expert Service
Boise Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Boise Fitness
Peak Performance
Gem State Strong
Community Fitness
Idaho Athletics
Elite Training

Official Idaho Business Resources

Idaho Secretary of State

Business registration

Idaho State Tax Commission

Tax information

Idaho SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Idaho

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

No annual report required
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
No state business license required

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

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Frequently Asked Questions

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