How to Change LLC Address in Alabama | A Step-by-Step Guide

Change LLC Address in Alabama

When you form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Alabama, you are required to provide a registered office address. This address is the official location where legal documents, such as the service of process, can be delivered. As your business grows, you may find it necessary to change your Alabama LLC’s address for various reasons, such as moving to a larger space, expanding to multiple locations, or simply changing your Resident Agent.

Changing your Alabama LLC address may seem daunting, but it can be simple and straightforward with the right information and guidance. In this article, Webinarcare Editorial Team will walk you through the necessary steps to change your Alabama LLC’s address, ensuring that you remain compliant with Alabama regulations.

What is a Limited Liability Company?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a specific form of a private limited company that combines aspects of partnership and corporate structures. It is a legal form of a company that provides its owners with limited liability. This means the owners are not personally liable for the company’s debts and liabilities beyond their investments in the company.

When it comes to changing the registered address of the LLC, the responsibility typically falls on the managers or members of the LLC, depending on the company’s structure.

The process is often as follows:

  1. The LLC must approve the change of address. This may happen at a members’ or managers’ meeting.
  2. Once approved, the appropriate form or document to effect the change of address must be filed with the Alabama Secretary of State.
  3. The filing often includes a small processing fee. After accepting the filing, Alabama will update the public record with the new address.

In Alabama, the change of registered address can also be related to the address of the LLC’s Resident Agent. A Resident Agent is a person or entity appointed by the LLC to receive legal papers and service of process on its behalf. This is another crucial role in the LLC that might be involved in the address change, especially if the Resident Agent’s address is used as the business’s official address.

It’s important to note that the specifics of this process can vary quite a bit depending on the Alabama LLC’s operating agreement and the specific administrative rules and requirements of Alabama in which the LLC is registered.

Before you change your LLC address, it is advised that you consult with a legal expert. They will be aware of what’s best for you and your business. You can always start an LLC in Alabama, if you wish to protect your personal assets from business debts.

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Reasons to Change Alabama LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Alabama can be prompted by several reasons, each distinctive to the business’s circumstances and goals. Here are several common reasons:

  1. Relocation of Business: The main reason for changing an LLC address is the relocation of the business. This could be related to business expansion, more space, or moving to a more convenient location.
  2. Convenience or Strategy: Sometimes, an LLC might change its primary address for convenience or strategic reasons. For instance, the business might move closer to its customer base or an area with favorable economic benefits.
  3. Legal Requirements: If an LLC’s legal or Resident Agent changes its address, the company must also change its registered address since the Resident Agent’s location is where all legal correspondences are sent.
  4. Rental Issues: If the tenant agreement — such as a lease — expires or faces problems, it might compel an LLC to change addresses. Landlord disputes can also lead to a change of address.
  5. Management Changes: If the management or owner of the business changes and the old address is no longer feasible or relevant for the new management, a change of address becomes necessary.
  6. Privacy Concerns: Some LLC owners change their addresses for privacy reasons to separate their personal lives from their business activities.
  7. Cost Reduction: Sometimes, a business may change its address to move to a less expensive area to cut costs.
  8. Disaster Recovery: In the unfortunate event of a natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances, such as a fire outbreak or civil disturbance, changing the LLC’s address might be necessary.
  9. Image and Branding: The business address can sometimes be part of the company image, particularly if the business is in an industry where location matters. An LLC may change addresses in such cases as part of a rebranding effort.

Remember, if your business operates as an LLC in Alabama, it’s important to update the Alabama Secretary of State or other relevant state agency whenever you change your business address. It helps to keep your business in good standing and to ensure that all official documents, notifications, and legal correspondences reach you or your Resident Agent.

How to Change Alabama LLC Address

To change your Alabama LLC address, you must follow the guidelines that include determining whether you need to change your LLC’s address, update your registered office address, update your principal place of business address, notify the IRS, and inform other relevant parties due to the amendment of your LLC address. 

Step 1: Determine If You Need to Change Your LLC’s Address

Before you begin the process of changing your Alabama LLC’s address, it’s essential to determine whether a change is indeed necessary. In Alabama, there are two primary addresses associated with your LLC:

Registered Office Address

This is the official address where legal documents and official correspondence will be delivered. If you are starting a business in Alabama or changing your Resident Agent, you will need to update this address. Changing your Resident Agent is one of the reasons why you need to change your Alabama LLC address because a Resident Agent should have a primary address in the state your LLC is registered. 

An example is having a Foreign LLC in Alabama; a Resident Agent should have the same address as your registered Foreign LLC.

Principal Place of Business Address

This is where your Alabama business operates. If you are moving your business, expanding to multiple locations, or changing your business structure, you must update this address. 

In some cases, you may need to update both addresses. Be sure to evaluate your specific situation to determine which addresses need to be updated.

Step 2: Update Your Registered Office Address

If you need to change your registered office address in Alabama, you will likely need to file an address change form with the Alabama Secretary of State. Below is an outline of the steps:

Obtain the Appropriate Form

Visit the Alabama Secretary of State‘s website to download the necessary form for changing your Alabama registered office address. This form may be called “Alabama Statement of Change of Registered Office” or something similar.

For you to update the registered office address, you need to have the following;

1. Your Alabama LLC must obtain a Certificate of Compliance from the Alabama Secretary of State, confirming that it has complied with all filing and tax obligations in the state of Alabama.

2. Your Alabama LLC must conduct a name search on Alabama Secretary of State Business Entity Search to ensure that its desired name is available for use in the state of Alabama. However, if you do not wish to file your LLC right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your LLC name for 1 Year. You must file a name reservation application with the Alabama Secretary of State to keep the name. 

You can register your business under a different legal name if your preferred name isn’t available.  Once you have chosen a name, you can submit an application for Alabama DBA (doing business as). In this manner, you can choose any name you desire for your business. A DBA allows a company to operate under the name of the person or entity who owns it. If you have decided to file for a DBA, you can file it in three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing.

However, before filing a DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA every five years, which costs $30.

3. Your Alabama LLC should prepare and file the Articles of Domestication with the Alabama Secretary of State, providing information about its existing Alabama LLC, its desired Alabama LLC name, and its new registered office address in Alabama.

4. Your Alabama LLC has designated a Resident Agent with a physical address in Alabama and is available during regular business hours to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC.

In Alabama, your Resident Agent must:

  • Be a resident of Alabama or a business entity authorized to do business in Alabama
  • Have a physical address in Alabama (P.O. boxes are not acceptable)

Choosing a reliable and responsible Resident Agent is essential, as failure to receive and respond to legal documents can seriously affect your business. 

You can serve as your own Resident Agent or appoint a friend, family member or hire the Best Alabama Resident Agent Services.

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Complete the Form

Carefully fill out the form, providing all required information, including your Alabama LLC’s name, current registered office address, and new registered office address. You may also be required to provide the name and address of your new Resident Agent if you are changing agents.

Submit the Form

Once the form is completed, please submit it to the Alabama Secretary of State, along with any required filing fees. You can usually submit your form online, by mail, or in person.

The fees in Alabama for this process are as follows:

  • Articles of Domestication: The filing fee for Articles of Domestication with the Alabama Secretary of State costs $0. The original LLC must be dissolved to form a new one with a $150.00 filing fee.
  • Dissolution of Alabama LLC: The fee for filing the Alabama Articles of Dissolution with the Alabama Secretary of State is $100.

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Confirm the Change

After submitting your form and other required documents, you should receive a confirmation from the Alabama Secretary of State that your address change has been processed. Keep this confirmation as proof that you have updated your registered office address.

Step 3: Update Your Principal Place of Business Address

If you need to change your Alabama LLC’s principal place of business address in Alabama, you may need to update your business license or other permits, depending on your specific situation. Here are some general steps to follow:

  • Contact Local Agencies: Contact the Alabama Secretary of State that issued your business licenses or permits to determine their specific requirements for changing your address. Depending on your business type and location, this may include city, county, or state agencies.
  • Keep Records: Retain copies of any updated Alabama licenses, permits, or other documents as proof that you have changed your principal place of business address. This may be necessary for future filings, audits, or compliance requirements.
  • Update your Licenses and Permits: Follow the instructions provided by the Alabama Secretary of State to update your business licenses and permits with your new principal place of business address. 

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Step 4: Notify the IRS of Your Address Change

In addition to updating your Alabama LLC’s address with the Alabama Secretary of State and local agencies, you should also notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of your address change. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Complete Form 8822-B: Download and complete IRS Form 8822-B, “Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business.” This form informs the IRS of your LLC’s new address.
  • Mail the Form: Mail the completed Form 8822-B to the IRS at the address specified in the form’s instructions. There is no filing fee associated with this form.
  • Update your EIN: If your Alabama LLC has an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you should also update the address associated with your EIN by contacting the IRS via phone, mail, or fax. The specific contact information and instructions can be found on the IRS website.

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Step 5: Inform Other Relevant Parties of Your Address Change

To ensure that your Alabama LLC remains in good standing and that you continue to receive important correspondence, you should also inform the following parties of your address change:

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Vendors and suppliers
  • Customers and clients
  • Utility providers
  • Alabama Insurance companies
  • Relevant industry associations or organizations

Update the Certificate of Formation

When changing the address of your LLC in Alabama, one of the pertinent requirements could be updating your Certificate of Formation, which is the document initially filed to establish your business entity officially.

The Certificate of Formation includes various pieces of information about the LLC, such as its name, primary place of business, and Resident Agent information. When you change the business address, it’s critical to ensure that the details on the Certificate of Formation reflect this modification.

The process usually involves the following steps:

  1. Obtain the Proper Form: The LLC must get the right form to amend the Certificate of Formation in Alabama. This information is typically available on the state’s Secretary of State website or other relevant state agencies.
  2. Complete the Form: Fill out the form according to the instructions provided.
  3. Submit and Pay Fees: Once the form is completed, submit it to the Alabama Secretary of State, along with any necessary filing fees. The fee for the amendment is $200.
  4. Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the amendment or change of address form for the company’s records.

Remember that the process and requirements for changing an LLC address may vary based on the regulations in Alabama, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or refer to the Alabama Secretary of State website for accurate information.

Advantages of Changing Alabama LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Alabama could bring several advantages, depending on the specific circumstances and reasons behind the move:

  • Business Growth and Expansion: If the change of address is due to the need for more space, the LLC is growing and expanding, which is a positive outcome.
  • Access to Resources: Moving to a new location could provide better access to essential resources, such as proximity to suppliers, customers, or a skilled labor pool, enhancing the company’s operation and potential profitability.
  • Strategic Benefits: The LLC might move to an advantageous business environment with strategic benefits such as a more favorable regulatory climate, lower taxes, or business-friendly policies.
  • Improved Professional Image: Moving to a prestigious business district or a well-known commercial area could enhance the professional image of the LLC and make it more attractive to clients or investors.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Changing the address could lower costs if the new location has cheaper rent, utility, or other operational expenses.
  • Improved Work Environment: A new address could mean a better work environment for employees, boosting morale, productivity, and, ultimately, the bottom line.
  • Enhanced Privacy: If an LLC owner uses a home address as the registered address, moving to a new, separate business address can help maintain privacy and separate personal life from business matters.

While these potential benefits can be compelling, it’s important to remember that changing an LLC’s address also involves informing the relevant government bodies in Alabama, updating business contacts, and possibly revising marketing materials. LLC owners should factor these considerations into their decision-making process.

Can Form 882-B Be Used to Change the LLC Name? 

Form 8822-B, titled “Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business,” informs the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of an address change for a business or a change in the responsible party. It cannot be used to change the name of an LLC.

To change the name of Alabama LLC, you must follow the appropriate process in the state where your LLC is registered. This typically involves filing Articles of Amendment or a similar document with the Alabama Secretary of State. After the name change has been approved at the state level, you should inform the IRS by following the instructions on your tax return or by sending a signed letter to the IRS office where you filed your return.

FAQs

What is an LLC in Alabama?
An LLC is a limited liability company registered in Alabama to carry out business activities.
How can I change the registered address of my LLC in Alabama?
You can change your LLC registered address by filing the proper forms with the Corporations Division of the Alabama Secretary of State.
What is the process of updating the LLC address in Alabama?
The process of updating your LLC address in Alabama includes filing a Statement of Change with the Alabama Secretary of State Corporations Division and paying the necessary fee.
Can I change my LLC address online in Alabama?
Yes, you can change your LLC address online on the Alabama Secretary of State’s website by filling the AR-121 form and paying the fee.
How long does it take to change an LLC address in Alabama?
It can take approximately 5 to 7 business days for your updated LLC address to be displayed on the State of Alabama business records after the filing process.
Is it necessary to provide a reason when updating my LLC address in Alabama?
No, it is not necessary to provide a reason when updating your LLC address in Alabama.
Are there any fees associated with changing the LLC address in Alabama?
Yes, there are fees associated with moving your LLC address in Alabama, which can be viewed on the State of Alabama business website.
What is the estimated cost to file Form AR-121 in Alabama?
The expected expense of filing Form AR-121 to change your LLC address in Alabama can vary but is about $15.
Are there any penalties for not updating my LLC address in Alabama Promptly?
Yes, there may be penalties involving your LLC business or your license fee imposed until the physical addresses are updated in the state’s records.
Will my business state and location be available publicly if I change the LLC address?
Yes, your business entity identities, addresses, and locations in Alabama are publicly accessible for all citizens under public records’ ordinance.
What do I need to know before updating my LLC address in Alabama?
You need to enact proper entities criteria, regulations, and have an assistance regulatory context, such as Alabama cooperative designing (Coopp).
Can I change my LLC address to a different state while maintaining my business entity laws?
You must keep up-to-date properly structured firms and follow Executive Order on prompt advance grant procedures if you want to change your LLC address to different states.
How far in advance can I file my LLC address change in Alabama?
You may file a primary application up to one year before the installation deadline, such as your initial LLC sec report date in Alabama.
Can I file a change of registered agent while also changing my Alabama LLC address?
Yes, you can change your registered agent’s information on the LLC Statement of Change document while updating the business address.
Are there specific requirements for a new LLC address to be registered in Alabama?
Yes, your required information executed by designated personnel must have a premise address and direction of communications in accordance with Alaska’s specific hulking statute.
What happens after submitting the Statement of Change to update your LLC address?
After filing and payment, your LLC’s records reflect new mailing addresses and post good standing, and you can present the proof of filing to colleagues.
How are tax implications affected after changing my LLC address in Alabama?
The federal taxation rule changes when LLC’s site of administration is adjusted; shareholders can be scaled more transparently, discussed forthwith, or equity interest (EI) taxed accordingly till office vicinity gavel rind flow through.
Where can I get my Certificate of Good Standing after a successful change of LLC address in Alabama?
You can either print your Certificate of Good Standing on the State of Alabama’s Secretary of State website initiated as a crucial license document or obtain the certification from the office if further proof is needed.
Can I file Form AR-121 over the phone to change my LLC address in Alabama?
No, you cannot file Form AR-121 to change your LLC address over the phone in Alabama. The acceptable methods for an online filing website request or to fill in written form delivered to the Alabama State Secretary via standard mail or walk-in transportation.
Is it possible to be granted an extension on updating my LLC address in Alabama?
Legally valid compliance work informs deadline status options on changing residential centers in your filing papers they send to every licensee such as Secretary of State as discussed before, therefore further general information access you can research web records and other assets such as rules and regulations forms that may assist references.
Will my business journal need an updated LLC address before updating any business publication in Alabama?
Absolutely, timely customer notification requirements stipulate the jurisdictional following suitable for government query database refinements.
Do certain corporations pose protection against insurance coverage during LLC address change processes in Alabama?
Every corporation in contracting cost services differs and coadunate with certain policies, serving or activities discretion options vary dependent on particular preference.
Can I update my mailing address, or will it only affect the actual LLC physical address?
Yes, you can tweak your email address as it may affect confidential documentation precautions disseminated or received externally to the firm, however, further forms you fill won’t prohibit LLC business physical acquisitions without LLC statement of change executed irrespective registered LLCs invalidations.
Will the LLC’s operating agreement need updating if I change my company address in Alabama?
Usually, new firms indicate required processes in accordance with business acts of amendment changes for Articles of Amendment as dictated follow proper record banking reports expenditures.
Can I cancel my Form AR-121 filing after submitting?
No, you can’t assign and authoritatively indicate retributional actions to your obligations stated, that why affiliates stipulate committed and valid publications.
What will cause my LLC address change to reject in Alabama?
Firm name follows to present a systemic network diagnostic executable dependent suitable formats intended formal impasse action executed within proper time, nevertheless corrected non-lucid phrasing prohibitions must be executed therewith with LLC Amendments.
Who is authorized to change my LLC’s registered email address in Alabama?
Any individual entitled or able must providing prevalent LLC government orders allowing developments has acquiescent obligations.
How do I search for available Laws related to LLC address change in Alabama online?
Search tools like the Alabama State Bar website, Code of Alabama, State of Alabama Library, and other public search engines provide communal documents such as LLC rules, these laws re served accessible on a free resource database notice, according to patent information guarantees or consideration plans previously mapped edurant statements registered elsewhere conflicting prevention notices reliefs submitter objections if ambiguously executed findings do arise.
What is an LLC?
An LLC (limited liability company) is a type of business structure that provides personal liability protection for its owners and management, while offering tax flexibility and pass-through taxation.
How do I change my LLC address in Alabama?
To change the registered address of your LLC in Alabama, you need to file an Address Change Form with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office.
Can I change my LLC address myself?
Yes, you can handle the process of changing your LLC address in Alabama yourself.
Is there a fee for changing your LLC address in Alabama?
Yes, there is a filing fee of $10 for changing your LLC address in Alabama.
Do I need to notify the Alabama Department of Revenue about my LLC address change?
Yes, you must notify the Alabama Department of Revenue about any changes to your LLC, including a change of address.
Where do I send my LLC address change form in Alabama?
You can send your LLC address change form in Alabama to the Office of the Secretary of State at 11 S Union Street, Suite 229, Montgomery, Alabama, 36130-4600.
Can I file my LLC address change form online in Alabama?
No, you cannot currently file your LLC address change form online in Alabama. You must file using paper documents.
How do I obtain an LLC address change form in Alabama?
You can obtain an Address Change Form (F100-007) from the Alabama Secretary of State’s website.
What information do I need to provide on the LLC address change form in Alabama?
On the LLC address change form in Alabama, you will need to provide your LLC name, the new address, and the signature of an authorized representative of the LLC.
Can I change my LLC address outside of Alabama?
Yes, you can change your LLC address outside of Alabama as long as you comply with the laws of the state where your LLC is formed and follow any applicable filing requirements.
Do I need to change my LLC address with other state agencies in Alabama?
Yes, you must update your address with any other state agencies in Alabama that your LLC may be registered with, such as the Department of Revenue.
Can I get expedited processing for my LLC address change request in Alabama?
No, there is no option for expedited processing for an LLC address change request in Alabama. All filings are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
What happens if I fail to update my LLC address in Alabama?
Failing to update your LLC address in Alabama can result in delays for important business and legal documents, as well as penalties for noncompliance.
Can I change my LLC name and address at the same time in Alabama?
No, changing your LLC name and address at the same time requires separate filings in Alabama.
How often do I need to update my LLC address in Alabama?
You should update your LLC address in Alabama as soon as it changes to avoid legal and financial issues.
Can I change my LLC’s registered agent at the same time as changing my address in Alabama?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s registered agent at the same time as changing your address in Alabama by submitting separate forms for each change.
Can I get legal help with changing my LLC address in Alabama?
Yes, you can consult with a business attorney for assistance with changing your LLC address in Alabama.
What is a registered agent for an LLC in Alabama?
A registered agent for an LLC in Alabama is a person or business that is designated to receive legal and important business documents from the state on behalf of the LLC.
What is a certificate of good standing for an LLC in Alabama?
A certificate of good standing for an LLC in Alabama is an official document that confirms the LLC is in compliance with state laws and regulations and is authorized to do business in Alabama.
Do I need to get a certificate of good standing to change my LLC address in Alabama?
No, you do not need a certificate of good standing to change your LLC’s registered address in Alabama.
How do I get a certificate of good standing for my LLC in Alabama?
You can request a certificate of good standing for your LLC in Alabama by submitting a written request and payment to the Secretary of State’s office.
How long is a certificate of good standing valid for an LLC in Alabama?
A certificate of good standing for an LLC in Alabama is typically valid for 60-90 days after the date of issue.
Can I change my LLC address and legal structure at the same time in Alabama?
No, changing your LLC address and legal structure at the same time requires separate filings in Alabama.
How do I notify customers, clients, and vendors of my LLC’s new address in Alabama?
You should notify all relevant parties of your LLC’s new address in Alabama by sending out official communications, updating your business website, and updating any online directories or listings.
Do I need a new EIN for my LLC when I change its address in Alabama?
No, you do not need a new EIN for your LLC when you change its address in Alabama.
What are the benefits of changing an LLC address in Alabama?
Changing an LLC address in Alabama can ensure timely delivery of important business and legal mail, improve your business’s mailing and physical address for marketing purposes, and comply with state laws and regulations.

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Conclusion

Changing your LLC’s address in Alabama can be relatively simple if you follow the above steps. By updating your registered office and principal place of business addresses, notifying the IRS, and informing other relevant parties, you can ensure that your LLC remains compliant with Alabama regulations and continues to operate smoothly.

Remember to keep records of all address changes and any updated licenses, permits, or other documents, as these may be necessary for future filings, audits, or other compliance requirements. And as always, consult with a legal or business professional if you have any questions or concerns about your situation.

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