Can I Change the Name of My LLC?

Here are the steps to take to change an LLC name:

Find out if your new name is available

To check if your new LLC name is available, conduct a name search on your state's secretary of state or business filing agency website. Your new name must be distinguishable from any existing corporation or LLC names registered in your state.

When searching, confirm:

• State database availability. The name isn't already registered by another business entity
• Naming requirements. The name includes required designators like "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company"

Approve a resolution to change business name

Your LLC’s owners or members should formally approve the name change. Check your LLC operating agreement to see how your LLC decides important matters—you may need a formal meeting or a more informal agreement. Write up a resolution approving the name change and keep it with your LLC’s official records.

Amend your articles of organization to change LLC name

When you formed your LLC, you filed articles of organization with the state. To change an LLC name, you must amend those articles. Each state has its own amendment form. You can contact your state’'s business filing agency or search “"change name of LLC”" on their website to find out which form you need to use in your state.

Once you have filled out the appropriate form, you must submit it to the state, together with any required filing fee.

Amend your operating agreement

You should also amend your internal LLC operating agreement to reflect your LLC’'s new name.

Notify taxing and licensing agencies

If you have business licenses, you’ll need to notify the agencies that issued them, so they can update their records. You may need to show them a certificate from the state approving the name change.

You must also notify federal, state, and local taxing authorities.

• IRS: Update your business name with the IRS using Form 8822-B
• State tax agency: Contact your state's department of revenue
• Local tax offices: Notify any city or county tax authorities

Change the name on business accounts

Update your LLC name across all financial accounts and business relationships. This includes ordering new checks and credit cards with your updated business name.

Notify the following parties of your name change:

• Banks and financial institutions
• Vendors and suppliers
• Landlords and lenders
• Insurance agents

You may also need to amend existing contracts and update business documents like invoices, estimate forms, and purchase orders. Don't forget to update your website terms and conditions, privacy policy, and any online forms.

Change the name on everything else

Once your name change has been approved by the state, you can begin telling the world about your new name. Update signage, brochures, business cards, stationery, and your website—anything that still uses your old name. You may also need to advertise your name change so that customers know they’re still dealing with the same company.

Legally changing your LLC’s name is as simple as filling out and filing a form. But before you embark on a name change, be sure it makes good business sense. Remember, you’ll also be spending time and money changing bank accounts, business licenses and forms, websites, and marketing materials before you proceed.