Delaware businesses now have more time to prepare for upcoming changes to the state’s trade name registration process. With the passage of House Bill 177 (HB 177), the effective date for House Bill 40 (HB 40) has moved from June 2, 2025, to February 2, 2026.
What Will Change Under HB 40?
HB 40 will overhaul the current system. Right now, businesses must file trade name certificates in every county where they operate. Under the new law, they’ll use a centralized, statewide registry managed by the Delaware Division of Revenue.
Here’s what HB 40 introduces:
- Statewide Registry: A single, streamlined registration process will replace county-level filings.
- Electronic Filings: Businesses will be able to file online—no notarization or physical submission required.
- New License Option: Businesses not operating in Delaware—but still wishing to register a trade name—will be able to do so by first obtaining a special trade name license.
What About Existing Trade Names?
Originally, all existing trade names had to be re-registered between June 2 and August 1, 2025. That deadline has shifted to align with the new February 2, 2026, rollout. Failure to re-register by the new deadline will result in release of the trade name, making it available to other entities.
How Parasec Can Help
At Parasec, we’re actively monitoring the rollout of Delaware’s new trade name registration process. As the February 2, 2026, implementation date approaches, we’ll keep our clients informed of key deadlines and help them transition smoothly to the new system.
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For more information, view the full text of the bills here:
HB40 and HB177