Changing Your Business Name in Florida | A Step-by-Step Guide

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Change Florida Business Name

In Florida, change is inevitable in today’s dynamic business environment. One such change that a business may undergo is a change in its name. A business owner might change their name for numerous reasons, even when starting an LLC in Florida. Whatever the reason, changing a business name in Florida can be a complicated process. Still, it’s essential to do it right to avoid potential legal issues and ensure a smooth transition. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to successfully Change a Business Name in Florida.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you change your business name when necessary. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Change a Business Name in Florida

Before Changing Your Business Name in Florida

Before you embark on the process of changing your business name, there are several considerations to keep in mind:

  • Research: Ensure that your new business name in Florida is unique and not already in use by another company in Florida. To avoid potential trademark infringement, you can conduct a preliminary search using the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database.
  • Notify Stakeholders: Inform your employees, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders about the upcoming name change to avoid confusion and ensure a smooth transition.
  • Update Marketing Materials: Revise your marketing materials, such as your website, business cards, signage, and social media profiles, to reflect the new Florida business name.
  • Consider the Impact on Existing Contracts and Agreements: Review your existing contracts and agreements to determine if they will be affected by the name change. You may need to renegotiate these contracts or obtain new ones under the new Florida business name.

You should also amend the Florida Articles of Organization and the operating agreement once you have changed your business name. The information should be up to date so your Florida business won’t have any legal problems in the future. Check out the Best Trademark Services in Florida to know whether your desired business name is available.

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How to Change a Business Name in Florida

Depending on the kind of business entity you have, several processes may be involved in changing your business name in the Florida. Here is a detailed explanation of each business structure:

Changing your company name in Florida is relatively easy. Before we go into the steps, you should know that some rules must be followed when naming a business in Florida. The name conventions may change depending on the type of corporate structure. The business must adhere to the following rules while changing the company name:

  • It should be possible to utilize the name.
  • Any other businesses do not use the name.
  • If the new entity is a limited liability company, the name must include “LLC.“
  • The name should be distinct from any governmental agency or institution, including banks and treasuries.

If you decide to start an LLC, read about the Florida Business Name Search to check if your desired business name is available. Let’s now examine the procedures for changing the company name:

It is suggested that you speak with a legal professional before you begin changing your business name. They’ll understand what’s best for you and your company. To have an easy process for naming your LLC, you can alwasy hire the Best LLC Services for your business.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Step 1: Choose a New Name For Your Business

You must decide on a new name before officially changing your business name in Florida. Conduct thorough research to ensure the new name is unique, memorable, and represents your company’s values and services. You should also ensure that another business in Florida does not already use the new name to avoid legal issues and customer confusion.

Some tips for choosing a new business name include:

  • Brainstorm a list of potential names and ask for feedback from friends, family, employees, and customers.
  • Consider the potential impact of the new name on your existing customers, partners, and vendors.
  • Research the availability of relevant domain names and social media handles to ensure a consistent online presence.

Before proceeding with the name change process, ensuring your chosen name is available in Florida is essential. You must conduct a name search through the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations to do this.

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Florida, you must choose another name and repeat the search process. However, 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 a DBA (doing business as) in Florida. 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 for up to five years, which costs $50 Processing Fee, $10 Certificate of Status, $30 Certified Copy.

In Florida, 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 120 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Florida Secretary of State to keep the name. 

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Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Articles of Amendment

After choosing a new business name in Florida, you must begin putting together the Articles of Amendment as soon as you are prepared with the new Florida business name. You must send the following information with the name change form: 

  • Current company name
  • New company name
  • Members’ (LLC) or Shareholders’ signatures (Corporation)
  • Florida filing fee for amendments
  • The business’s entity number, as provided by the state of Florida
  • Board of Directors expression of approval (for corporations)
  • Details about shares (if applicable)

When registering a new business name with the Florida Secretary of State, you must provide the list of information indicated above. Ensure the information you offer for the Amendment corresponds to the initial filing materials. Please do so to avoid the registration being canceled.

Step 3: File the Articles of Amendment

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Florida Secretary of State’s office to change your business name officially. This process typically involves filing an amendment to your company’s Articles of Incorporation for a corporation or Articles of Organization for an LLC, depending on your business structure.

To file the amendment, you’ll need to:

  1. Obtain the appropriate amendment form from the Florida Secretary of State.
  2. Fill out the form with the required information, including your current business name, new business name, and any other required details.
  3. Pay the filing fee, which may vary depending on your business structure and Florida regulations. In Florida, amendment cost is $50.00.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Florida Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Florida’s filing options.

Once your amendment has been processed and approved, your business name will officially be changed in Florida.

Things to do After Filing the Articles of Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Articles of Amendment in Florida.

After changing your business name, there are a few additional steps you may need to take:

  • Update your EIN: If your business has an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you may need to notify the IRS of the name change. You can do this by writing a letter to the IRS or completing and submitting Form 8822-B.
  • Update your Business License: If your business operates with a business license, you must update the license with the new business name. You can do this by filing Florida business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Florida Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Florida Department of Labor and Workforce Development of the name change.
  • Update your Local Tax and Business Registrations: Depending on your local jurisdiction, you may need to update your local tax and business registrations with the new business name.

Why Change Your Business Name?

There are various reasons why a  business owner might want to change their business name. These can include:

  • Rebranding: If your current Florida business name no longer reflects your products or services, rebranding can help revitalize your company’s image and attract new customers.
  • Expanding or Refocusing: Your business may have evolved over time, and the original name may no longer accurately represent the scope of your operations.
  • Merger or Acquisition: If your business merges with another company or is acquired, a name change might be necessary to reflect the new owner or combined services.
  • Legal Issues: If your business name infringes on a trademark or is too similar to another company’s name, you may need to change it to avoid legal disputes.
  • Improved Marketability: A new business name in Florida can be more memorable, easier to pronounce, or better suited to your target audience.

How Long Does Changing The Business Name Take?

The time it takes to change a business name can vary depending on factors such as the Florida’s processing times, the method of submission (online or by mail), and whether all necessary information and fees have been submitted correctly. Generally, once you have submitted the required paperwork and fees to the Florida Secretary of State, it can take a few days to several weeks for the name change to be processed and approved.

What Happens If I Don’t Update the Website or Stationery?

If you change your business name in Florida but do not update your website, stationery, or other marketing materials, you may face several potential issues:

  • Customer Confusion: Your customers may need clarification about the change in the business name and may not recognize that your company is the same one they have previously done business with. This confusion could lead to a loss of trust and potentially a loss of customers.
  • Inconsistency in Branding: When your business name is inconsistent across all platforms, including your website and stationery, it can negatively impact your brand image. Not updating your marketing materials may make your company appear unprofessional or disorganized, which could harm your reputation.
  • Legal Issues: Depending on Florida regulations, you may be legally required to update your marketing materials with your new business name. Failure to do so could result in penalties or fines. Additionally, if you use a trading name or DBA (Doing Business As) name, you may need to register that name separately with the appropriate government authority to avoid legal issues.
  • Communication Problems: Please update your website and stationery with your new Florida business name to avoid issues. Clients, vendors, and other partners may not recognize the new name and may not associate it with your company, leading to missed opportunities and potential misunderstandings.

To avoid these potential issues, updating your website, stationery, and all other marketing materials as soon as possible after changing your Florida business name is essential. This ensures that your customers know the change, maintains consistency in your branding, and helps prevent legal or communication.

If I Have a Foreign LLC, Can I Change the Name Aside from the Original Name?

Yes, if you have a foreign LLC in Florida (a limited liability company formed in one state but doing business in another state), you can change the name of the foreign LLC. 

FAQs

How do I change my business name in Florida?
To change your business name in Florida, you will need to file a Certificate of Amendment with the Florida Division of Corporations.
How much does it cost to change my business name in Florida?
The filing fee for a Certificate of Amendment in Florida is $50.
Can I change my business name online in Florida?
Yes, you can file your Certificate of Amendment online through the Florida Division of Corporations website.
What information do I need to provide when changing my business name in Florida?
You will need to provide your business’ current name, your new desired name, and your business’ registered agent’s information.
How long does it take to change my business name in Florida?
The Florida Division of Corporations typically processes filings within 5-7 business days.
How do I know if my business name is already in use in Florida?
You can search the Florida Division of Corporations’ online databases to see if your desired name is available.
What if my desired business name is already in use in Florida?
You will need to choose a different name for your business.
Can I reserve a business name while I wait to change my business name in Florida?
Yes, you can reserve a name for 120 days by filing a Name Reservation Application with the Florida Division of Corporations.
Do I need to notify the IRS if I change my business name in Florida?
Yes, you will need to file an updated Form SS-4 with the IRS to inform them of your new business name.
Will changing my business name affect my business entity type in Florida?
No, changing your business name will not affect your business entity type.
Can I change my business name and my business entity type at the same time in Florida?
No, if you want to change your business entity type, you need to file a separate form with the Florida Division of Corporations.
What if I change my business name and someone else still has a similar name?
It is recommended to consult with a business attorney to ensure your new business name is not too similar to another existing business.
Can I change my business name without having to get a new tax ID number in Florida?
Yes, you generally do not need to get a new tax ID number when changing your business name in Florida.
Will I need to start over with my business licenses and registrations when I change my business name in Florida?
It depends on the specific licenses and registrations your business holds. It is recommended to notify the issuing agency of your name change.
How do I change my business website to reflect my new name in Florida?
You will need to update your website’s URL and create new marketing materials reflecting your new business name.
Do I need to publish a legal notice if I change my business name in Florida?
No, Florida law does not require businesses to publish a legal notice when changing their name.
Can I change my business name if I have outstanding debts or contracts in Florida?
Yes, you can change your business name even if you have outstanding debts or contracts. However, it is recommended to clarify the name change with creditors and customers.
Can a business name change impact my credit score in Florida?
No, your personal or business credit score will generally not be impacted by a name change.
How can I avoid trademark issues when changing my business name in Florida?
It is important to do research and ensure that your new business name does not infringe on another trademark.
Do I need to update my business name on my business bank account in Florida?
Yes, you will need to notify your bank and update your business’ name on all banking materials.
How soon can I start using my new business name in Florida after filing my Certificate of Amendment?
You can begin using your new business name as soon as you receive confirmation of your filing from the Florida Division of Corporations.
Can I change my business name if I am operating as a sole proprietorship in Florida?
Yes, you can change your business name as a sole proprietorship by registering your new name with the appropriate Florida agencies.
Can I change the legal structure of my business when changing my name in Florida?
No, changing your legal structure requires filing additional forms with the Florida Division of Corporations.
How does a business name change affect my company branding in Florida?
A business name change requires an update to branding materials including logos, website, business cards, and other materials.
Should I inform my customers if I change my business name in Florida?
Yes, it is important to notify customers about your business name change to avoid confusion.
How do I notify my customers about a business name change in Florida?
You can notify customers through email, social media, website, or physical communication materials.
What if I am running a DBA and want to change my business name in Florida?
You can change a DBA name by updating the registration records with the Florida Division of Corporations.
Can I change the spelling of my business name when changing it in Florida?
Yes, you can change the spelling of your business name when you change the name on record with the Florida Division of Corporations.
What is the process to change the name of my business in Florida?
The process typically involves filing Articles of Amendment with the Florida Secretary of State.
Is there a fee to file Articles of Amendment to change my business name in Florida?
Yes, there is a fee that you need to pay to file Articles of Amendment in Florida.
Can I change my business name in Florida online?
Yes, you can file Articles of Amendment online with the Florida Secretary of State.
How long does it take to change the name of a business in Florida?
Processing times can vary, but it typically takes around 3-5 business days in Florida.
What happens after I file Articles of Amendment to change my business name in Florida?
Once the Florida Secretary of State approves your application, your new business name will be legally recognized.
Do I need to form a new business entity when changing the name of my business in Florida?
No, you can keep your existing business entity. Just update the name on your official documentation and records.
Are there any requirements for choosing a new business name in Florida?
Yes, the name must be distinguishable from any existing business names in Florida.
Can I change the name of an LLC company to that of a Corporation in Florida?
Yes, you can change the name of your LLC company to that of a Corporation in Florida through the Articles of Amendment process.
How can I check if my chosen business name is available for use in Florida?
The Florida Secretary of State has a business name database that you can search to see if the name is available.
Do I need to notify any other agencies or organizations when changing my business name in Florida?
It depends on your specific business, but you may need to update your registrations with the IRS, Florida Department of Revenue, and any licensing or regulatory agencies.
Can I choose any name for my business in Florida, or are there any restrictions?
There are some restrictions, such as names that are misleading, obscene, or violate existing trademarks, but other than that you can choose any name you like that is distinguishable from other businesses in Florida.
Is a DBA (Doing Business As) necessary when changing the name of my business in Florida?
No, you do not need a DBA when changing the name of your business in Florida as long as you update your official records with the new name.
Can I change the name of my business in Florida if my company is dissolved?
No, you cannot change the name of a dissolved business.
Can I change the name of my nonprofit organization in Florida?
Yes, you can change the name of your nonprofit organization in Florida using the same process as a for-profit business.
Can I file a name change for my business by mail in Florida?
Yes, you can file by mail, but it may take longer than filing online.
Does changing the name of my business in Florida affect my EIN (Employer Identification Number)?
No, your EIN will remain the same.
Can I change the name of my partnership in Florida?
Yes, you can change the name of your partnership in Florida.
How do I update the name of my business on my bank account after changing it in Florida?
You will need to contact your bank and provide them with the updated information.
What documents do I need to provide to change my business name in Florida?
To change your business name in Florida, you will typically need to file Articles of Amendment.
How can I change the name of my business on my business license after changing it in Florida?
You will need to contact the licensing agency or department that issued your license and provide them with the updated information.
What happens if my business name change is rejected in Florida?
You will receive a notification from the Secretary of State explaining why the application was rejected, and you will need to refile with the necessary corrections.
Can I change the name of my sole proprietorship in Florida?
Yes, you can change the name of your sole proprietorship in Florida.
What is the maximum length for a business name in Florida?
There is no maximum length for a business name in Florida.
Can I change the name of my business in Florida without notifying my customers?
While not required, it is recommended that you notify your customers of any name change.
Can I change the name of my business in Florida and keep the same website domain name?
Yes, you can keep the same website domain name, but you will need to update the name on the website.
Can I change the name of my franchise in Florida?
Yes, you can change the name of your franchise in Florida, but you will need to follow the regulations set by the franchisor.
How can I add or remove a word in my business name in Florida?
You will need to file Articles of Amendment with the Florida Secretary of State to add or remove a word from your business name.
Can I change the name of my foreign corporation that is registered to do business in Florida?
Yes, you can change the name of your foreign corporation that is registered to do business in Florida using the same process as a domestic corporation. However ,it must meet the Florida naming requirements.
Can I change the name of my LLC in Florida if there is already an LLC with the same name?
No, your new name must be distinguishable from that of any other LLC registered in Florida.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Florida can be a strategic decision that helps your company evolve and remain competitive. By following the steps outlined in this guide and conducting thorough research, you can ensure that your business name change is completed legally and efficiently. Remember to notify all relevant stakeholders, update your marketing materials, and revise any contracts or agreements to reflect the new business name.

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