How to Change Your LLC Name

How to change your LLC name: member vote, Articles of Amendment, name availability, and updating banks and DBA records.

If you want to know how to change your LLC name, the process is more than just updating your website. A legal name change involves a vote, a state filing, and updating your records with banks, vendors, and government agencies. It takes a little coordination, but the steps are clear. Here is how to do it correctly so nothing falls through the cracks.

Check Availability Before You Change Your LLC Name

Before you commit to a new name, make sure it is available in your state. Search your Secretary of State's business registry to confirm no other company is already using it. Your new name must still include an entity designator like LLC or Limited Liability Company, and it must be distinguishable from existing names. Picking a name that is unavailable wastes your filing fee, so always check before you file.

Get Member Approval

A name change affects the whole company, so the members need to approve it. Check your operating agreement for the required vote. Some agreements require a majority, others a supermajority or unanimous consent. Hold the vote and document the decision in meeting minutes or a written consent. This record shows that the change was properly authorized and protects you if anyone questions it later.

File the Amendment to Change Your LLC Name

Next, you file an amendment with your state, often called a Certificate of Amendment or Articles of Amendment. This document lists your current legal name, your new name, and the date the change is effective. There is usually a filing fee, and the exact form and fee vary by state. You can typically file online through your Secretary of State's website. Our LLC amendment page walks through the filing details.

Update Banks, Vendors, and DBA

Once the state approves the change, update everyone who does business with you. That includes your bank, credit card companies, vendors, clients, and the IRS through your EIN records. If you operate under a trade name or DBA, update that registration as well. Any place that sends you money or issues you documents should know the new name. For help keeping your financial accounts aligned, see our business bank account guide.

Notify Other Entities and Agencies

You may also need to notify your registered agent, your insurance provider, and licensing agencies. If you have employees, update your payroll records. If the change affects your annual filings, use the new name going forward. Once everything is updated, keep a copy of the approved amendment with your formation documents. For a related process, our member change guide covers what to do when ownership changes.

How Long the Process Takes

The timeline depends on your state. Online amendments are often processed within a few business days, while paper filings can take several weeks. Factor in time for the member vote and for updating your accounts after the state approves the change. Plan ahead if you want the new name live by a specific date, such as a rebrand or a new contract. Starting early also gives you time to fix any issues with name availability before you file.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change my LLC's name?

You typically hold a member vote, file an amendment such as a Certificate of Amendment with your Secretary of State, pay the filing fee, and then update your records. After the state approves the change, update your bank, vendors, clients, the IRS, and any DBA or licenses with the new name. Check your operating agreement first to see what vote is required, and confirm the new name is available before you file. The process is straightforward, but it touches many accounts, so a checklist helps you avoid missing any of them.

How much does it cost to change an LLC name?

The cost depends on your state's amendment filing fee, which varies from state to state. In addition to the state fee, you may have costs to update bank accounts, signage, marketing materials, and other business records with the new name. Some states also charge a fee to reserve a name before you file the amendment. The total is usually modest, but it can add up if you need new signs, cards, or a website update. Check your Secretary of State's website for the exact filing fee in your state.

Do all LLC members need to approve a name change?

It depends on your operating agreement. Some agreements require a majority vote, while others require a supermajority or unanimous consent. Check your agreement before you proceed, and document the vote in meeting minutes or a written consent signed by the members. That record shows the change was properly authorized and protects you if anyone questions it later. If your LLC has a single member, the decision is yours alone, but you should still document it. Following the process in your agreement keeps the change clean and enforceable.

Do I need to update my EIN after changing my LLC name?

No. Your EIN stays the same when you change your LLC's name, because the EIN is tied to the entity, not the name. However, you should notify the IRS of the name change so your business records stay current, and you should update your bank, vendors, and any accounts that use the old name. The IRS has a process for reporting a name change, and your accountant can help with it. Keeping the name consistent across all of your records avoids confusion and ensures tax documents match.