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

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Change Louisiana Business Name

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

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 Louisiana

Before Changing Your Business Name in Louisiana

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

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

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How to Change a Business Name in Louisiana

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

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

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana. 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 ten years, which costs $75 Filing Fee and $300 for 24-hour Expedited fiiling.

In Louisiana, 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 60 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Louisiana Secretary of State to keep the name. 

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Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the there is no

After choosing a new business name in Louisiana, you must begin putting together the there is no as soon as you are prepared with the new Louisiana 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)
  • Louisiana filing fee for amendments
  • The business’s entity number, as provided by the state of Louisiana
  • Board of Directors expression of approval (for corporations)
  • Details about shares (if applicable)

When registering a new business name with the Louisiana 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 there is no

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana regulations. In Louisiana, amendment cost is $25.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Louisiana’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the there is no

Additional considerations in filing the there is no in Louisiana.

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 Louisiana business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Louisiana Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana’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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana (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 Louisiana?
You can change your business name in Louisiana by filing a Name Change Amendment with the Louisiana Secretary of State.
What are the fees associated with changing a business name in Louisiana?
The fee for filing a Name Change Amendment with the Louisiana Secretary of State is $25.
Can I change my business name myself or do I need to hire an attorney?
You can file a Name Change Amendment yourself, but if you need legal advice regarding the name change process, it’s advisable to hire an attorney.
Is there a waiting period before I can change my business name in Louisiana?
There is no waiting period, but you must file a Name Change Amendment with the Louisiana Secretary of State.
How long does it take to change a business name in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Secretary of State processes Name Change Amendments within 5-7 business days.
Can I change the name of my business without registering with the Louisiana Secretary of State?
No, it’s important to register name changes with the Louisiana Secretary of State to ensure legal compliance and avoid confusion with customers.
What happens if I change the name of my business but don’t update my registration?
Failing to update your business registration with the new name can lead to legal action and potentially impact the liability protection of the business.
Is a business name change the same as a DBA in Louisiana?
Yes, a business name change is essentially the same as filing for a DBA (Doing Business As) in Louisiana.
Can I change the legal entity of my business in addition to changing its name in Louisiana?
Yes, it is possible to change both the name and the legal entity of a business in Louisiana through a merger or conversion process.
Do I need to inform the Louisiana Department of Revenue if I change the name of my business?
Yes, notifying the Louisiana Department of Revenue of the name change and updating any tax forms is crucial to ensure compliance.
Will changing my business name affect my Louisiana business license?
Yes, you’ll need to update your business license in Louisiana to reflect the new name.
Can I still use my old business name after changing it in Louisiana?
No, once you change your business name in Louisiana, you must discontinue use of your old business name and replace it with the new name.
Is a business name change in Louisiana retroactive?
A business name change in Louisiana is not retroactive, meaning any legal actions or documents that use your old business name will still be in effect unless updated.
What publishing requirements are there for a business name change in Louisiana?
There are no publishing requirements for a business name change in Louisiana.
Will Louisiana notify others of my business name change?
Louisiana doesn’t typically notify others of business name changes, so you should personally inform related business entities of the name change.
Will my credit score be affected by changing my business name in Louisiana?
No, your credit score should remain unchanged by simply changing your business name in Louisiana.
Should I trademark my new business name after changing it in Louisiana?
If your new business name is unique, it’s advisable to apply for trademark protection to prevent competitors from using a similar name.
How can I search whether my new business name is available in Louisiana?
Check the Louisiana Secretary of State’s name database for the availability of your new business name.
Can I change my business name if a previous owner had the same name in Louisiana?
Yes, you can still change your business name in Louisiana even if a previous entity had the same name.
Are there any restrictions to the new name I choose for my business in Louisiana?
The new name you choose for your business in Louisiana must comply with naming conventions and not be too similar to an existing business.
Will my old business license be valid after I change my business name in Louisiana?
No, you’ll need to apply for a new business license under the new name in Louisiana.
Do I need to amend my Louisiana articles of incorporation when changing my business name?
No, you don’t need to file a separate amendment for articles of incorporation when changing your business name in Louisiana if you’ve already done so.
Can I change my business name to a trademarked name in Louisiana?
No, it’s strongly advised against changing your business name in Louisiana to a trademarked name to avoid potential lawsuits.
Can I change my business name to the name of a celebrity in Louisiana?
Using the name of a celebrity as your business’s name in Louisiana may be considered infringing on their right to their own name and may lead to legal action.
Can I keep parts of my old business name when changing it in Louisiana?
Yes, it’s possible to incorporate elements of your old business name into your new name in Louisiana to allow for familiarity with your customer base.
Can the Louisiana Secretary of State deny my request to change my business name?
Yes, the Louisiana Secretary of State may deny your request if you don’t comply with naming standards or there’s already an existing business with a similar name.
Can I change my business name for privacy purposes in Louisiana?
It’s possible to change your business name in Louisiana for privacy purposes, but typically a DBA will suffice instead of a formal name change.
Do I need to update my business name with public records in Louisiana?
Yes, public record information, such as filings, liens, tax records, etc., should be updated with your new business name in Louisiana.
Is it difficult to change a business name in Louisiana?
No, the process of changing a business name in Louisiana is relatively straightforward; however, you should ensure that you comply with all regulations and hiring an attorney for assistance is often advisable.
What is the process for changing my business name in Louisiana?
The process involves filing documentation with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office and obtaining a new name registration.
What documents are needed to change my business name in Louisiana?
You need to file an application for name change with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office and pay the applicable fees.
What is the fee for changing my business name in Louisiana?
The fee for filing the application for name change with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office is $55.
Is there a deadline for changing my business name in Louisiana?
No, there is no specific deadline for changing your business name in Louisiana, but it is recommended that it be done as soon as possible to avoid confusing customers.
Can I change my business name myself, or do I need to hire a professional to do it for me?
You can change your business name yourself by following the steps outlined by the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office.
What happens if someone else has already registered my desired business name in Louisiana?
If your desired business name is already registered in Louisiana, you will need to choose a new name for your business.
If I change my business name, do I need to replace all existing advertisements and marketing materials with the new name in Louisiana?
It is recommended that you update your existing advertisements and marketing materials to reflect your new business name in Louisiana.
Will I need to change the name on my business licenses and permits if I change my business name in Louisiana?
Yes, you will need to apply for new business licenses and permits under your new business name in Louisiana.
Do I need to register a new Louisiana tax ID number when I change my business name?
No, you can continue using your existing Louisiana tax ID number when you change your business name.
Will my FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number) change when I change my business name in Louisiana?
No, your FEIN will remain the same when you change your business name in Louisiana.
Do I need to inform the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office if I change my business name in my operating agreement?
No, you don’t need to inform the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office if you change your business name in your operating agreement.
Can I change my business name through a legal name change involving court?
Yes, you can change your business name through a court-ordered legal name change in Louisiana.
Does my LLC operating agreement need to be updated once I change my business name in Louisiana?
Yes, you should consider updating your LLC’s operating agreement to reflect your new business name.
Do I need to update my business bank account information when I change my business name in Louisiana?
Yes, you need to update your business bank account information to reflect your new business name in Louisiana.
Do I need to notify my Louisiana business partners, suppliers, and customers when I change my business name?
Yes, you should inform your business partners, suppliers, and customers of the change in your business name in Louisiana.
After changing my business name in Louisiana, will I need to re-register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue?
Yes, you will need to re-register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue under your new business name.
If I have to change my business name, will I still be able to do business in Louisiana with my old name?
After changing your business name in Louisiana, you cannot do business under your old name.
Is there a waiting period to re-use my old business name once I’ve changed it in Louisiana?
No, there is no waiting period to re-use your old business name in Louisiana once you’ve changed it.
Do I need to file a fictitious name registration for my new business name in Louisiana?
No, you do not need to file for a fictitious name registration since you will have already registered your new business name with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office.
Can I still file taxes under my old business name after changing it in Louisiana?
No, you must file your taxes under your new business name once it has been registered with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office.
Do I need to change my business name with the Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Corporation (LWCC)?
Yes, you will need to change your business name with the LWCC in Louisiana.
Can I change my business name if I have an outstanding lien in Louisiana?
Yes, but the process may take longer to complete while your lien is being paid and/or released before you can apply for the change.
Do I need to notify the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office if I change my business name again in the future?
Yes, you should notify the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office if you change your business name again in the future.
Is a Louisiana DBA the same thing as a registered Louisiana business name?
A Louisiana DBA (Doing Business As) is not the same thing as a registered Louisiana business name – the latter requires formal registration with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office.
Does changing business name in Louisiana have any impact on my business’s tax status?
No, changing business name doesn’t impact your business’s tax status in Louisiana.
Will my business name change affect my business’s liability and asset protection structure in Louisiana?
No, liability and asset protection related details are connected with the business structure instead of the business name changes in Louisiana.
Will changing my business name invalidate existing contracts in Louisiana for the business under its old name?
No, the contracts signed with the business under its earlier name continue to be valid in Louisiana even after a name change.
Does changing business name in Louisiana affect state business regulations compliance requirements?
No, changing business name doesn’t affect state business regulations compliance requirements, and they need to be met irrespective of business name changes.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Louisiana 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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