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

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Change Georgia Business Name

In Georgia, 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 Georgia. Whatever the reason, changing a business name in Georgia 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 Georgia.

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 Georgia

Before Changing Your Business Name in Georgia

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 Georgia is unique and not already in use by another company in Georgia. 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 Georgia 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 Georgia business name.

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

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How to Change a Business Name in Georgia

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

Changing your company name in Georgia is relatively easy. Before we go into the steps, you should know that some rules must be followed when naming a business in Georgia. 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 Georgia 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 Georgia. 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 Georgia 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 Georgia is essential. You must conduct a name search through the Georgia Corporations Division to do this.

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Georgia, 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 Georgia. 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 two methods, by mail and in person.

However, before filing a DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA for up to Indefinite, which costs $172.

In Georgia, 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 30 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Georgia 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 Georgia, you must begin putting together the Articles of Amendment as soon as you are prepared with the new Georgia 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)
  • Georgia filing fee for amendments
  • The business’s entity number, as provided by the state of Georgia
  • Board of Directors expression of approval (for corporations)
  • Details about shares (if applicable)

When registering a new business name with the Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia regulations. In Georgia, amendment cost is $20.00.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Georgia Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Georgia’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Articles of Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Articles of Amendment in Georgia.

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 Georgia business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Georgia Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia’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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia (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 can I change my business name in Georgia?
To change your business name in Georgia, you need to file a form with the Georgia Secretary of State’s office.
What is the cost to change a business name in Georgia?
The cost to change a business name in Georgia is $50.
Can I change a business name in Georgia online?
Yes, you can change your business name in Georgia online by accessing the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
What documentation do I need to change my business name in Georgia?
You will need to file a Certificate of Amendment for your business entity with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Will I need to acquire a new business license when changing my business name in Georgia?
Yes, you will be required to obtain a new business license in Georgia after changing your business name to ensure you’re operating with a legal business entity.
Can I change the name of my DBA in Georgia?
Yes, you can change your DBA name in Georgia as long as you are the registered owner of the DBA.
How long does it take to change a business name in Georgia?
The process of changing your business name in Georgia can take up to 14 days.
Can I change my LLC name in Georgia?
Yes, it is possible to change an LLC’s name in Georgia by filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Secretary of State’s office.
How many times can I change my business name in Georgia?
There are no set rules for changing business names in Georgia. As long as you follow the correct protocol and documentation, you can change your business name as often as you like.
Is it possible to check business name availability in Georgia before registering a new company name?
Yes, the Georgia Secretary of State provides a name availability search tool on its website which can be used to verify if your selected business name is already taken or not.
Will changing my business name affect my business credit?
No, changing your business name in Georgia will not directly impact your credit score. However, applying for new loans or lines credit after changing your business name might require you to report changes.
Do I need to notify my customers when I change my business name in Georgia?
Yes, you must notify all of your customers of the change when you change your name as it is important you keep your customers informed to avoid losing your credibility.
Can you change your business name in Georgia without affecting your tax ID numbers?
Yes, changing your business name will not necessarily impact your tax ID numbers. However, the onus is on you to update any necessary document, such as legal, tax, and banking documents.
Can I still use my old tax ID numbers after changing my business name in Georgia?
Yes, You can still use your old tax ID numbers, but you will have to apply for a new business name before the Social Security Administration replaces a new Employer Identification Number.
Can you change your business name without changing anything else?
Yes, if your company’s needs haven’t changed outside the name change, your business address can stay the same.
How do I update my Georgia business name with the IRS?
To update your Georgia business name with the IRS, complete Form SS-4.
Do I need to obtain a new EIN for my business if I change my business name in Georgia?
No, you do not need to get a new EIN after changing a business name.
Can I change my business name with my local county authorities instead of the Georgia Secretary of State’s office?
No, you have to change your business name with the Georgia Secretary of State’s office.
Can a foreign entity change its business name in Georgia?
Yes, foreign business entities registered in Georgia are required to follow the name change procedures in place.
Will I need to notify the state of Georgia of a change of address if I only change my business name?
Yes, if you change your business name, you’ll also need to update your address with Georgia Secretary Of State.
Do I need to maintain the same name for my business and entity after incorporating in Georgia?
No, You can have different entity names, and business names in Georgia.
How long does it take for the Georgia Secretary of State to approve a name change application?
It normally takes up to 14 working days to approve a name change application after the submitting date.
What is the Georgia Secretary of State’s mailing address for business name changes?
Use the PO Box given by the state on provided forms.
Do I have to obtain a new trade name registration if I just change the spelling in an existing LLC name?
No, as long as you keep the original LLC name the same and change the solution, a new registration would not be required.
Can I change my Georgia business name while an appeal is in session?
If your business has a corresponding civil or criminal appeal, contact them and figure out if changing your business name would have potential adverse consequences first.
What is the fastest turnaround time I should expect when changing my name?
There is no specific speed requirement guaranteed by Georgia Secretary of State offered for name changes.
Do I need a lawyer to change my business name in Georgia?
It is not essential, but it is always worthwhile seeking the services of an experienced Georgia attorney to ensure you file and follow the correct protocol correctly.
Will a change of Georgia corporate or LLC name lead to the creation of a new business entity?
No, your existing business entity in Georgia won’t change after a name change is finalized.
Can an outdated online site page affect a timely approval of a business name-change application in Georgia?
It is hard to say; far-fetched. But you’d want to make sure when pleating your application, everything appears correctly in the online form before submitting it.
What is the process for changing a business name in Georgia?
The process for changing a business name in Georgia involves filing a Trade Name Registration application with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Where can I find the Trade Name Registration application in Georgia?
The Trade Name Registration application can be found on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
Is there a fee to change a business name in Georgia?
Yes, there is a fee to file the Trade Name Registration application in Georgia. The fee varies depending on whether you file online or by mail.
Do I need to notify any other state agencies or departments of my name change in Georgia?
You may need to notify other Georgia state agencies, such as the Department of Revenue, depending on your business structure.
Can I change my business name in Georgia if I am a sole proprietor?
Yes, sole proprietors can change their business names by filing a Trade Name Registration application.
Do I need to publish notice of my name change in Georgia?
No, you do not need to publish notice of your name change in Georgia.
Will my Georgia business ID number change if I change my business name?
No, your Georgia business ID number will remain the same if you change your business name.
Can I change my business name in Georgia if I have pending lawsuits or judgments against my current name?
It is best to consult a Georgia attorney in this situation, as changing your business name may not automatically relieve you of any liabilities or obligations related to your prior name.
Can I change my business name in Georgia if I have unpaid taxes or other liabilities?
You should make sure any unpaid taxes or liabilities are addressed before filing a Trade Name Registration application to change your business name in Georgia.
Will changing my business name in Georgia affect my tax status?
Changing your business name in Georgia should not automatically affect your tax status. You may need to notify the Department of Revenue of your name change, however.
Can I change my domain name if I change my business name in Georgia?
Yes, you can change your domain name if you change your business name in Georgia. You will need to update your website, social media accounts, and other online profiles accordingly.
Can I trademark my new business name in Georgia?
Yes, you can apply for a trademark in Georgia for your new business name.
Do I need to update my Georgia business license if I change my business name?
Yes, you will need to update your Georgia business license if you change your business name.
Can I change my professional corporation or LLC name in Georgia?
Yes, you can change the name of your professional corporation or LLC by filing a Trade Name Registration with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Can I change my partnership name in Georgia?
Yes, you can change the name of your partnership by filing a Trade Name Registration with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Do all partners need to sign the Trade Name Registration application to change the partnership name in Georgia?
It is preferable for all partners to sign the Trade Name Registration application to change the partnership name in Georgia, but not necessarily required.
Can I change my nonprofit organization’s name in Georgia?
Yes, you can change the name of your nonprofit organization in Georgia by filing a Trade Name Registration.
Do I need to submit proof of my organization’s tax-exempt status with the Trade Name Registration application in Georgia?
Typically, you do not need to submit proof of your organization’s tax-exempt status with the Trade Name Registration application in Georgia.
How will I know if my Trade Name Registration application to change my business name in Georgia was approved?
You will receive a confirmation email or mail once your Trade Name Registration application to change your business name in Georgia has been approved.
Do I need to update my fictitious name statement if I change my business name in Georgia?
You should update your fictitious name statement if you change your business name in Georgia, but the process for doing so varies depending on the county in which you are filing.
Will my Georgia professional license issued under my previous business name still be valid after I change my business name?
As long as your professional license remains valid, it should continue to be valid regardless of your business name change in Georgia.
Can I change my Georgia LLC or corporation name to a name that is already in use in the state?
No, you cannot use a name that is already in use by another business entity in Georgia.
Can I change my business name again in Georgia if I change my mind?
Yes, you can change your business name again in Georgia by following the Trade Name Registration process once more.
Does my business name change need to be in compliance with GA state laws?
Yes, your business name change needs to be in compliance with street, local, and state GA laws.
Will my business name change be valid outside of GA?
Your business name change in Georgia will be recognized by other states, but you may need to perform additional filings or registrations in those states.
Can a foreign corporation change its name in Georgia?
Yes, a foreign corporation can change its name in Georgia by following the Trade Name Registration process.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Georgia 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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