State Matrix

UPDATES

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

The following guidelines provide background information on the most common types of filings and the related exemptions in Utah.

Fundraising in this State

how to know (and what to do) if you're fundraising in this state

In this state, organizations are generally required to register prior to soliciting for donations. However, this requirement has a religious exemption. Religious organizations must apply for this exemption; the religious organization exemption is not automatic. More information about registration and exemption is available on the  Division of Consumer Protection Bureau website.

if you're Fundraising in Multiple states, make sure you Understand the URS.

In this state, organizations that are required to register have the option of registering through the Unified Registration Statement, which is a standardized charitable registration accepted in many states. However, the state also has an online filing system, and using that system may be more efficient than completing and mailing the URS manually. Additionally, creating an online profile can help auto-populate future annual reports, saving an organization time in the coming years.

evaluate whether you'll need a Registered agent

Note that this jurisdiction requires organizations incorporated in other states to appoint a registered agent in Utah. This can be done through a commercial service or by appointing a person or entity located in Utah who is a supporter of your organization.

follow the rules about communicating with the public

This state does not require organizations to post specific language when conducting charitable solicitations. Utah Code § 13-22-13 does prohibit, among other things, “any untrue statement of material fact” in connection with a solicitation.

Charitable REgistration statute

Charitable registration exemption statute

After you've registered–the Annual report requirement

Conducting Activities or Programs in this State

UNDERSTAND THE Business Registration REQUIREMENTS

Depending on the type and volume of activities an organization has in this state, the organization may also need to register as an out-of-state business (sometimes called a “foreign business”) with the secretary of state or another state agency.

These foreign business registration requirements are separate from the charitable registration. Not every out-of-state organization needs to register. An attorney can assist the organization in determining whether its connections with this state are significant enough to trigger the foreign business registration requirement.

Examples of activities that might trigger this requirement include having employees physically located in the state, conducting programs in the state, and having an office in the state.

Business registration statute

Get Acquainted with State and Local Tax Exemptions

State and local taxes

In this state, organizations that have received recognition of federal income tax exemption are also exempt from the state  income tax. However, to receive this exemption, organizations must apply. The exemption is not automatic. To apply organizations can use Form TC-161. Note that, although an organization may be exempt, if it has unrelated business taxable income (“UBTI”) that is subject to federal taxation, that UBTI may be subject to state income tax. [See Utah Code § 59-7-801 and 802.]  

It is also important to consider whether applying for sales and use tax and property tax exemptions would be appropriate for your organization. More information regarding sales and use tax is available at the Utah State Tax Commission website. Information about property tax exemption can be found on the local county website, for example, the Salt Lake City County website. An accountant or attorney can provide answers to specific questions regarding your organization’s eligibility for exemption.

Corporate Income Tax Statute

CORPORATE FRANCHISE TAX STATUTE

This state does not have a corporate franchise tax.

what you need to know about sales tax

What This State Says about Nonprofits

A FINAL NOTE: OTHER HELPFUL INFORMATION

background

state nonprofit corporation law

Corporate governance

For Religious Nonprofits

Understanding Religious Liberty in this State

Case Study

Religious Liberty Protections

Other Relevant State Laws and regulations

KEy employment Laws and regulations

BEFORE YOU GO: OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

useful links

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Legal disclaimer

This resource contains general educational information related to legal concepts, but this information does not constitute legal advice. Anyone seeking legal advice is strongly encouraged to consult with a licensed attorney regarding any of the matters discussed herein. Although licensed attorneys work with Napa Legal, Napa Legal is not a law firm and does not undertake legal representation on behalf of any clients. Further, no licensed attorney working with or on behalf of Napa Legal agrees to undertake legal representation on behalf of any client unless the terms of such representation are set forth in a separate, written representation agreement.