How to Change Your LLC Name? Step-By-Step Process

Changing the name of your Limited Liability Company (LLC) is indeed possible, and understanding the process is essential for entrepreneurs navigating the dynamic business landscape of 2024. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recognizes the need for businesses to adapt and rebrand as they grow. However, it's important to note that a change in the LLC name involves specific legal procedures to ensure compliance with IRS regulations. 

These regulations aim to maintain transparency and clarity in the business environment. As we are going to explore how to change your LLC name, we will also delve into the IRS guidelines, providing a comprehensive understanding of the steps required to execute this transformation successfully.

Can You Change Your LLC Name?

Changing your LLC name is a legitimate and achievable process. Whether you're rebranding, adapting to a shift in business focus, or simply seeking a fresh identity, the flexibility to change your LLC name is recognized by legal frameworks. However, it's crucial to approach this task with a clear understanding of the steps involved and compliance with regulatory bodies, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). 

Cost to change LLC Name

The financial aspect of changing your LLC name is a critical consideration in the rebranding process. Fortunately, the procedure is generally affordable, with every state permitting name changes through a straightforward amendment filing. Most Secretary of State websites offer readily available amendment forms for your convenience. 

When it comes to expenses, filing fees tend to vary, but a common range falls between $50 and $100. This relatively modest investment ensures compliance with state regulations and allows for a seamless transition to your newly envisioned business identity. 

DBA Name vs. Name Change

Understanding the distinction between a DBA name and a complete LLC name change is crucial for business owners seeking to modify their company's identity. A DBA, or Doing Business As, is an alias or trade name that a business operates under, distinct from its legal business name. It allows companies to conduct business using a different, often more marketable name, without altering their formal legal structure. 

On the other hand, an LLC name change involves officially amending the legal name of the business entity itself. While a DBA provides flexibility in branding without altering the formal entity name, a name change involves a more formal and comprehensive transformation. 

Below is a table summarizing the key differences between a DBA name and an LLC name change:

How to Change an LLC Name

Changing your LLC name involves a series of formal steps to ensure compliance with state regulations and maintain smooth business operations. Here's a comprehensive guide to navigating the process:

Formal Approval:

I. Member Resolution: Convene your LLC members and officially approve the name change through a resolution. Follow the voting requirements outlined in your operating agreement and document the resolution for record-keeping.

State Filing:

I. Articles of Amendment: Find the state-specific form for amending your LLC's articles of organization on the Secretary of State website or business filing portal. Accurately complete the form, providing the new name and effective date.

II. Filing Fee: Pay the requisite filing fee, which varies by state. Many states offer online filing options with electronic payment.

III. Processing Time: Allow for the state's processing time, typically a few weeks. Once approved, you'll receive a certificate confirming the official name change.

Additional Steps:

I. Operating Agreement: Update your LLC operating agreement to reflect the new name.

II. IRS Notification: Inform the IRS of the name change using Form 8822-B, "Change of Address or Responsible Party - Business."

III. Other Notifications: Update entities like banks, creditors, vendors, customers, and any licenses or permits associated with your business.

Important Considerations:

I. LLC Status: Ensure your LLC is in "good standing" with the state by filing required reports and paying fees.

II. Name Availability: Check for name availability in your state to avoid conflicts with existing businesses.

III. Business Licenses: Changing your name may necessitate updating business licenses or permits.

IV. Professional Guidance: Depending on your situation's complexity, consider consulting with an attorney or legal service to ensure all steps are followed correctly. This ensures a seamless transition and compliance with regulatory requirements.

How to Change Your LLC Name in Texas?

Changing your LLC name in Texas involves specific steps to comply with state regulations. Whether you're rebranding or making adjustments to your business identity, the process requires attention to detail.

 Here's a guide tailored to changing your LLC name in the Lone Star State:

Member Resolution: Begin by convening your LLC members to pass a formal resolution approving the name change. Refer to your operating agreement for specific voting requirements.

Articles of Amendment: Obtain the Texas-specific form for amending your LLC's articles of organization. This form is available on the Texas Secretary of State website or business filing portal. Accurately complete the form, including the new name and effective date.

Filing Fee: Pay the filing fee, which varies. Texas often allows online filing, simplifying the process with electronic payment options.

Processing Time: Allow for the state's processing time, typically a few weeks. Upon approval, you'll receive a certificate confirming the name change.

Operating Agreement Update: Reflect on the new name in your LLC operating agreement.

IRS Notification: Inform the IRS of the name change using Form 8822-B, "Change of Address or Responsible Party - Business."

Other Notifications: Update banks, creditors, vendors, customers, and any licenses or permits related to your business.

Important Texas-Specific Considerations:

• Franchise Tax Status: Ensure your LLC maintains good standing by addressing any outstanding franchise tax requirements.
• Name Availability: Check the availability of the new name to avoid conflicts with existing businesses in Texas.
• Compliance with Texas Laws: Familiarize yourself with Texas-specific regulations to ensure full compliance throughout the name change process.

How to change your LLC name in Florida?

Changing your LLC name in Florida involves a detailed process outlined by the Florida Department of State. Here's a step-by-step guide to navigating the name change process:

Review Instructions and Gather Information:

• Refer to Page 1 for general instructions on filing fees and processes.
• Gather necessary information, including your LLC's current name, contact details, and filing fee.

Prepare Cover Letter:

• Use Page 3 as a template for a cover letter.
• Enter your LLC's current name in the subject field.
• Provide contact information for where the approval documents should be sent.
• Include your contact information for any questions.

Complete Articles of Amendment:

• Refer to Pages 4 to 6 for the Articles of Amendment form.
• Enter your current LLC name at the top.
• Obtain the Document Number and Date Filed from the Florida Business Entity Search.
• Fill in the new LLC name, principal office address (if applicable), and new mailing address (if applicable).
• Decide whether to change your LLC's registered agent.
• Optional: Page 5 allows changes to managers or members, while Page 6 addresses other amendments and the effective date.
• Sign and date the form.

File by Mail:

• Prepare a check or money order payable to the "Florida Department of State."
• Mail the payment and signed Articles of Amendment to the provided address.

Wait for Approval:

• Approval times vary but typically take around 12 business days, plus mail time.
• Once approved, you'll receive a stamped and approved copy of your filing.

Additional Steps

Update LLC Name with the IRS:

• After Florida approval, follow the provided instructions to update your LLC name with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Update Department of Revenue Account:

• Contact the Florida Department of Revenue to update your business's account with the state tax department.

Update Financial Institutions:

• Inform financial institutions, such as banks, about the LLC name change for accounts, checks, debit/credit cards, online banking, loans, and more.

Update or Obtain a New Business License:

• If applicable, update your state or local business license or permit. Contact the relevant authorities for guidance.

How to change your LLC name in California?

Changing your LLC name in California is a straightforward process with a clear cost structure. The filing fee for the Amendment to Articles of Organization form, required for the name change, is a flat $30. Whether you choose to file the form online or by mail, the cost remains the same. Here's a concise breakdown of the steps and costs involved:

• Ensure your new LLC name is available in California.
• Submit the Amendment to the Articles of Organization form and await approval.
• Inform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about the LLC name change.
• Update the Franchise Tax Board and California Department of Tax and Fee Administration with the new name.
• Notify credit card companies and banks about the LLC name change.
• Update your state or local business license.
• Update branding materials, business accounts, and other relevant entities.
• The filing fee for changing your LLC name in California is a flat $30, whether filed online or by mail.

How to Change your LLC name in Georgia?

Changing your LLC name in Georgia involves a few key steps, and it's important to adhere to the state's naming conventions. An LLC name in Georgia must include specific terms such as "Limited Liability Company," "Limited Company," or their abbreviations. Additionally, certain words are restricted, particularly those associated with insurance, banking, or education, as outlined in Georgia's rules on restricted names. 

If you want to reserve a name for up to 30 days, Georgia offers a Name Reservation Request form, which can be filed by mail for $35 or online for $25 through eCorp. 

However, for an active LLC, it's generally more straightforward to file Articles of Amendment. Here are the key steps involved:

• Ensure your new LLC name complies with Georgia's naming requirements.
• Reserve a name for up to 30 days using the Name Reservation Request form, available for $35 by mail or $25 online through eCorp.
• File Georgia Form CD 115 – Articles of Amendment to Articles of Organization with the Corporation Division.
• Provide details such as the LLC's original name, Georgia control number, date of original Articles of Organization filing, new name, and effective date of the amendment.
• Include the signature and printed name of an authorized person, which can be the LLC organizer or member, manager, court-appointed fiduciary, or attorney-in-fact.
• Specify the date of the signature and provide the authorized person's email address.

How to Change your LLC Name in Ohio? 

Changing your LLC name in Ohio involves a straightforward process, and understanding the associated costs and steps is crucial. The required filing fee for this change is $50, consistent with whether you choose to submit the Certificate of Amendment form online or by mail. 

To initiate the process, check the availability of your new LLC name, and then file the Amendment form with the Ohio Secretary of State. This official filing updates your Limited Liability Company's legal entity on state records. 

The Ohio Secretary of State oversees LLC formation and administration, including name changes. 

Here's a concise breakdown:

• Ensure your desired LLC name is available in Ohio.
• Submit the Certificate of Amendment form to the Ohio Secretary of State.
• Provide necessary details such as the LLC's current name, new name, and effective date of the amendment.
• Inform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about the change in your LLC name.
• Update the Ohio Department of Taxation with your LLC's new name.
• Notify credit card companies and banks about the LLC name change.
• Update your state or local business license.
• Ensure consistency by updating branding materials, business accounts, and other relevant entities.

How to Change your LLC name in New York?

Changing your LLC name in New York is a straightforward process that involves filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Department of State. This formality ensures the official recognition of your LLC's new name. The filing fee for the Certificate of Amendment in New York is $60, with an additional $5 fee if you request a copy of the approved Certificate of Amendment, bringing the total to $65. 

Once the state approves your LLC name change, it's essential to notify key entities such as the IRS, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, and your business bank account. Additionally, updating your LLC name on other platforms, like your website and marketing materials, completes the process. 

• Ensure your desired LLC name is available in New York.
• Submit the Certificate of Amendment form to the New York Department of State.
• Await approval.
• Inform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about the change in your LLC name.
• Notify the state tax department of your LLC's new name.
• Notify credit card companies and banks about the LLC name change.
• Update your state or local business license.
• Ensure consistency by updating branding materials, business accounts, and other relevant entities.

How to Change your LLC name in Virginia?

Changing your LLC name in Virginia is a streamlined process that involves filing the Articles of Amendment with the State Corporation Commission for official approval. The filing fee for the Articles of Amendment in Virginia is a reasonable $25, providing a cost-effective means to update your LLC's name. 

After the state grants approval, it's crucial to notify key entities such as the IRS, the Virginia Department of Taxation, and your business bank account of the LLC name change. Additionally, updating your LLC name across various platforms, like your website and marketing materials, completes the transition. 

• Ensure your desired LLC name is available in Virginia.
• Submit the Articles of Amendment form to the State Corporation Commission.
• Await approval.
• Inform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about the change in your LLC name.
• Notify the Virginia Department of Taxation of your LLC's new name.
• Notify credit card companies and banks about the LLC name change.
• Update your state or local business license.
• Ensure consistency by updating branding materials, business accounts, and other relevant entities.

Ending Note

Changing your LLC name is a manageable process that varies slightly depending on the state in which your business is registered. Whether you're navigating the formalities in New York, Ohio, Virginia, or any other state, the fundamental steps remain consistent. Checking name availability, filing the necessary forms, and updating crucial entities such as the IRS and financial institutions are universal actions. Whether driven by rebranding efforts or strategic adjustments, changing your LLC name is an essential aspect of maintaining a dynamic and adaptable business presence.