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

Processing times vary: 5-7 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 Vermont?

Vermont 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 Vermont?

The LLC filing fee is $125. Annual fees are $35. 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 $250.

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 Vermont. 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 Vermont 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.

Vermont Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Vermont

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Vermont?

$125

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

75K

Total Businesses

7K/yr

New Businesses

Strong local economy

Support for small businesses

High quality of life

Growing food and beverage industry

Starting a Business in Vermont

Top Cities for Business

Burlington44,743
Essex22,094
South Burlington20,304
Colchester17,478
Rutland15,807

Popular Industries

Tourism
Agriculture
Manufacturing
Healthcare
Technology

Cost to Start a Business in Vermont

LLC Filing Fee$125

Annual Report Fee$35/year

Name Reservation (optional)$20 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$250

Processing time: 5-7 business days

Vermont Tax Overview

Vermont has income tax rates from 3.35-8.75%. Corporate tax is 6-8.5%. Sales tax is 6% state plus local.

Vermont 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 Vermont

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

restaurant

Green Mountain Table
Vermont Cuisine
Burlington Kitchen
New England Dining
Vermont Eats
Farm Fresh

barbershop

Burlington Cuts
Premium Grooming
Green Mountain Barbers
Classic Style
Vermont Shave
Expert Service

construction

Vermont Builders
Quality Construction
Green Mountain Build
Building VT
Burlington Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Burlington Strategy
Business Growth
Green Mountain Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Vermont Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Vermont Mercantile
Local Goods
Green Mountain Market
Quality Products
Burlington Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Vermont Home Care
Complete Solutions
Green Mountain Services
Professional Care
Burlington Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Burlington Tech
Innovation
Green Mountain Digital
Tech Solutions
Vermont Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Vermont Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Green Mountain Medical
Patient Care
Burlington Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Vermont Properties
Dream Homes
Green Mountain Realty
Expert Service
Burlington Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Burlington Fitness
Peak Performance
Green Mountain Strong
Community Fitness
Vermont Athletics
Elite Training

Official Vermont Business Resources

Vermont Secretary of State

Business registration

Vermont Department of Taxes

Tax information

Vermont SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Vermont

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

File Annual Report ($35)
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

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

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