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

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Change LLC Address in Iowa

When you form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Iowa, 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 Iowa LLC’s address for various reasons, such as moving to a larger space, expanding to multiple locations, or simply changing your Registered Agent.

Changing your Iowa 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 Iowa LLC’s address, ensuring that you remain compliant with Iowa regulations.

How to Change Iowa LLC Address

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 Iowa Secretary of State.
  3. The filing often includes a small processing fee. After accepting the filing, Iowa will update the public record with the new address.

In Iowa, the change of registered address can also be related to the address of the LLC’s Registered Agent. A Registered 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 Registered 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 Iowa LLC’s operating agreement and the specific administrative rules and requirements of Iowa 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 Iowa, if you wish to protect your personal assets from business debts.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Reasons to Change Iowa LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Iowa 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 Registered Agent changes its address, the company must also change its registered address since the Registered 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 Iowa, it’s important to update the Iowa 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 Registered Agent.

How to Change Iowa LLC Address

To change your Iowa 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 Iowa LLC’s address, it’s essential to determine whether a change is indeed necessary. In Iowa, 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 Iowa or changing your Registered Agent, you will need to update this address. Changing your Registered Agent is one of the reasons why you need to change your Iowa LLC address because a Registered Agent should have a primary address in the state your LLC is registered. 

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

Principal Place of Business Address

This is where your Iowa 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 Iowa, you will likely need to file an address change form with the Iowa Secretary of State. Below is an outline of the steps:

Obtain the Appropriate Form

Visit the Iowa Secretary of State‘s website to download the necessary form for changing your Iowa registered office address. This form may be called “Iowa 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 Iowa LLC must obtain a Certificate of Standing from the Iowa Secretary of State, confirming that it has complied with all filing and tax obligations in the state of Iowa.

2. Your Iowa LLC must conduct a name search on Iowa Secretary of State Business Entities Search to ensure that its desired name is available for use in the state of Iowa. 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 120 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Indefinite, which costs $5.

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

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

In Iowa, your Registered Agent must:

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

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

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

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Complete the Form

Carefully fill out the form, providing all required information, including your Iowa 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 Registered Agent if you are changing agents.

Submit the Form

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

The fees in Iowa for this process are as follows:

  • Articles of Domestication: The filing fee for Articles of Domestication with the Iowa Secretary of State is $100.00 for conversion.
  • Dissolution of Iowa LLC: The fee for filing the Iowa Articles of Dissolution with the Iowa Secretary of State is $5.

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Confirm the Change

After submitting your form and other required documents, you should receive a confirmation from the Iowa 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 Iowa LLC’s principal place of business address in Iowa, 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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa LLC’s address with the Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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
  • Iowa Insurance companies
  • Relevant industry associations or organizations

Update the Certificate of Organization

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

The Certificate of Organization includes various pieces of information about the LLC, such as its name, primary place of business, and Registered Agent information. When you change the business address, it’s critical to ensure that the details on the Certificate of Organization 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 Organization in Iowa. 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 Iowa Secretary of State, along with any necessary filing fees. The fee for the amendment is $50.
  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 Iowa, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or refer to the Iowa Secretary of State website for accurate information.

Advantages of Changing Iowa LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Iowa 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 Iowa, 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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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

Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC to a different state?
No. In order to change the address of your Iowa LLC, you must provide a valid Iowa address.
What do I need to do to change the address of my Iowa LLC?
You must file a “Change of Registered Office/Agent” form with the Secretary of State.
Can I change my Iowa LLC’s address online?
Yes, you can file the “Change of Registered Office/Agent” form online.
How much does it cost to change the address of my Iowa LLC?
The filing fee for changing your LLC’s address in Iowa is $10.
How long does it take to change the address of my Iowa LLC?
Processing time varies, but it typically takes between 3-5 business days to process the form.
Do I need to notify the IRS of the address change?
Yes, you must file a Notification of Change of Address form (Form 8822-B) with the IRS.
Do I need to notify the Iowa Department of Revenue of the address change?
Yes, you must file a Change of Address form with the Iowa Department of Revenue.
Do I need to update my business licenses and permits after changing my Iowa LLC’s address?
Yes, you must update your business licenses and permits with your new Iowa address.
Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC without notifying my bank?
No, you must notify your bank of the change in address for your Iowa LLC.
What happens if I don’t update my Iowa LLC’s address with the Secretary of State?
You risk noncompliance and may lose your LLC’s good standing with the state of Iowa.
Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC on behalf of someone else?
Yes, but you must have legal authority to act on behalf of the LLC.
Will changing my Iowa LLC’s address affect my tax identification number?
No, your tax identification number will remain the same after changing your Iowa LLC’s address.
Can I change my Iowa LLC’s address if I’m in the process of applying for an EIN?
No, you should wait until you receive your EIN before filing for a change of address.
What do I do if my Iowa LLC’s mailing address and physical address are different?
You must provide both addresses in the “Change of Registered Office/Agent” form.
Can I change the name of my Iowa LLC while changing the address?
No, you must file a separate form to change the name of your Iowa LLC.
Which office do I send the “Change of Registered Office/Agent” form to?
You must mail the form to the Secretary of State or file it online.
Do I need to notify my customers and clients of my Iowa LLC’s address change?
Yes, it’s recommended to notify your customers and clients of the address change.
Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC multiple times?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s address in Iowa as many times as needed.
What happens to my LLC’s mail if I don’t update my Iowa LLC’s address?
Your mail will continue to be delivered to the old address listed with the Secretary of State.
Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC without notifying my LLC’s members?
No, you must notify all members of the LLC of the address change.
What do I need to do when moving my Iowa LLC out of Iowa?
You must first file a “Certificate of Withdrawal” with the Secretary of State before moving your LLC.
Do I need to change the address of my Iowa LLC if I relocate my business within the same Iowa county?
No, you don’t need to change the address of your Iowa LLC if you’re relocating within the same county.
Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC if it’s in a foreign country?
No, you must register your LLC under the laws of the foreign country where your address resides.
Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC if it’s not in good standing with the state?
No, only LLCs in good standing with the state can file a “Change of Registered Office/Agent” form.
What happens if my Iowa LLC fails to file a “Change of Registered Office/Agent” form?
Your LLC could be subject to penalties and may lose its good standing with the state.
Do I need to change my Iowa LLC’s address if I move to a different location within the same building?
It depends on how the building is classified in zoning regulations. Check with your local zoning board to determine if a change of address is required.
Can I change the address of my Iowa LLC if I’m not the registered agent?
No, only the registered agent on file with the Secretary of State can file a “Change of Registered Office/Agent” form.
What is an LLC?
An LLC or Limited Liability Company is a legal entity that is separate from its owners and offers protection to them from liabilities.
How do I change the address of my LLC in Iowa?
To change the address of your Iowa LLC, you will need to file a change-of-address form with the Iowa Secretary of State office, either online or by mail.
What is the cost involved in changing the address of my LLC in Iowa?
It costs $5 to file a change-of-address form with the Iowa Secretary of State office, whether filed online or by mail.
Can I change the address of my LLC registered in another state to Iowa?
Yes, but you will need to register your LLC as a foreign entity doing business in Iowa before changing its address to an Iowa one.
Can I change my Iowa LLC’s address by only updating it with local authorities like the county clerk or city hall?
No, you must file a change-of-address form with the Iowa Secretary of State office to update your LLC’s address.
Can I file a change-of-address form for my Iowa LLC by phone?
No, the Iowa Secretary of State office does not accept change-of-address forms by phone and you have to file it online or by mail.
Do I need to notify any other Iowa state offices when I change my LLC’s address?
If your LLC is registered with any other state agencies than the Secretary of State office, like Iowa Department of Revenue, you should also update your address with them.
How often can I change my LLC’s address in Iowa?
You can change your LLC’s address in Iowa any time you need to.
Are there any restrictions on where my LLC’s address can be located in Iowa?
No restrictions; it can be any physical location at which you receive official correspondence for your LLC.
How long does it take to update the address of my LLC in the Iowa Secretary of State office’s records?
The Iowa Secretary of State office usually takes 3-5 business days to process a change-of-address form.
Can I print a copy of my new filed change of address form?
Yes, you will have the option to print a copy of your confirmed form after filing it online.
Do sole proprietorships need to file a change-of-address form to change their business mailing address?
No, in Iowa, sole proprietorships do not need to officially file a change-of-address form. They can simply start using the new address for business mail.
What happens if I forget to update my LLC’s address in Iowa after moving?
Your LLC may not receive important correspondence, and you may face legal consequences for any missed compliance deadlines.
Can I change my LLC’s mailing address to an address outside of Iowa?
Yes as long as your LLC is still registered in Iowa, you can make your primary mailing address any address you would like.
Can someone else file a change-of-address form on behalf of my LLC?
Yes, Iowa Executive Code specifically permits an attorney or tax professional to file the form on your behalf.
What do I need to include in my LLC’s new mailing or physical address for Iowa filing?
You must provide the full mailing address and phone number of the new address and/or the new physical (street) and mailing address.
What if someone sends official correspondence to my old LLC address in Iowa?
The Postal Service usually forwards mail to a new address for six months. However, it is best to update all registered addresses as soon as possible.
Can I change the addressing country too for LLC in Iowa?
Yes. Sometimes it happens that people want to change country along with addressing, you can change the addressing country too if you are moving to a different country.
Can I cancel a recently submitted change-of-address form for my Iowa LLC?
Located offices in different cities process requests, therefore, you need to contact the office who processed your request. You can check by contacting the customer support for more information.
Can I add or change any other details along with the address when filing a change-of-address form?
No, you can not make other major changes when fileing change-of-address through an online form.
Do I have to report my new LLC address to the state’s insurance department if I have a registered agent?
No, unless specified by your insurance provider in your insurance contract, you do not have to file with the state’s insurance office.
How does the state of Iowa verify my LLC’s new address?
Iowa will simply process your form and update its records accordingly.
Where I find the LLC change of address form?
You can find the LLC change of address form of Iowa Secretary of State office website.
Do I need to change details on my LLC social media profiles when I change the LLC address in Iowa?
Yes, for good maintenance and assurance of delivery, you need to change the details of your address in your social media profiles as well.
Can my LLC use the new address immediately after submitting a change-of-address form online?
Yes, paper-based options require additional processing time whereas online method is very accurate and changes your address immediately.
What if I file the change-of-address annually instead of immediately?
You run the risk of missing important Commissioner compliance notices and opportunities to maintain good relationships with clients, connections and acquaintances.
Did the process of changing the address of LLC change in Iowa after COVID-19?
No, the state of Iowa did not make any changes in the changing addresses of LLC explicitly related to the pandemic situation.
Is it compulsory to have physical office before filing change of address for LLC in Iowa?
No, you don’t need a physical office, but you must have to submit a different address to receive all messages.

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Conclusion

Changing your LLC’s address in Iowa 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 Iowa 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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