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

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Change LLC Address in Louisiana

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

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

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

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

It’s important to note that the specifics of this process can vary quite a bit depending on the Louisiana LLC’s operating agreement and the specific administrative rules and requirements of Louisiana 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 Louisiana, if you wish to protect your personal assets from business debts.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Reasons to Change Louisiana LLC Address

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

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

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

How to Change Louisiana LLC Address

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

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

Principal Place of Business Address

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

Obtain the Appropriate Form

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

2. Your Louisiana LLC must conduct a name search on Louisiana Secretary of State Corporations Search to ensure that its desired name is available for use in the state of Louisiana. 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 60 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 ten years, which costs $75 Filing Fee and $300 for 24-hour Expedited fiiling.

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

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

In Louisiana, your Resident Agent must:

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

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

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

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Complete the Form

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

Submit the Form

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

The fees in Louisiana for this process are as follows:

  • Articles of Domestication: The filing fee for Articles of Domestication with the Louisiana Secretary of State is $150.00 for conversion.
  • Dissolution of Louisiana LLC: The fee for filing the Louisiana Articles of Dissolution with the Louisiana Secretary of State is $100.

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Confirm the Change

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

Update the Articles of Organization

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

The Articles of Organization includes various pieces of information about the LLC, such as its name, primary place of business, and Resident Agent information. When you change the business address, it’s critical to ensure that the details on the Articles 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 Articles of Organization in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana Secretary of State, along with any necessary filing fees. The fee for the amendment is $100.
  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 Louisiana, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or refer to the Louisiana Secretary of State website for accurate information.

Advantages of Changing Louisiana LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Louisiana 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana Secretary of State. After the name change has been approved at the state level, you should inform the IRS by following the instructions on your tax return or by sending a signed letter to the IRS office where you filed your return.

FAQs

What are the requirements for changing the address of an LLC in Louisiana?
To change the address of an LLC, you need to file a form with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office and pay a fee.
How do I file the required form to change the LLC address in Louisiana?
You can file the form online through the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website or mail a completed form to their office.
Is there a fee for changing an LLC address in Louisiana?
Yes, there is a fee associated with changing the address of an LLC in Louisiana.
Can I change my LLC address myself or do I need to hire someone?
You can change the address of your LLC yourself by filling out the necessary form and paying the fee.
How long does it take to change an LLC address in Louisiana?
The processing time for changing an LLC address in Louisiana varies but typically takes about two to three weeks.
What happens if I don’t change my LLC address in Louisiana?
If you don’t change your LLC address, you may miss important business or legal correspondence that could affect your business operations.
Are there any additional steps I need to take after changing my LLC address in Louisiana?
You should notify your bank, customers, and vendors of the address change to avoid any confusion.
How often can I change my LLC address in Louisiana?
There is no limit to how often you can change your LLC address in Louisiana.
What if I have more than one LLC registered in Louisiana, can I use the same address for both?
Yes, it is possible to use the same address for multiple LLCs registered in Louisiana.
Do I need to change my LLC address on my business cards and other marketing materials?
Yes, it’s important to update your business cards, website, and marketing materials with your new LLC address in Louisiana.
Can I change my LLC address in Louisiana if I am behind on annual report filings?
No, you need to be current on all your annual report filings before changing your LLC address in Louisiana.
What happens if I change my LLC address without notifying the state?
If you change your LLC address without notifying the state, you may lose your LLC status and become personally liable for business debts.
Can I change my LLC address to a different state?
No, you cannot change your LLC address to a different state. You will need to dissolve your LLC in one state and form a new LLC in the other state.
How can I find out what paperwork I need to submit when changing my LLC address in Louisiana?
You can visit the Louisiana Secretary of State website or contact their office for assistance.
What if I need to change my LLC address right away?
You can expedite the processing of your LLC address change by paying a higher fee for the expedited service.
Will my LLC need to register for a new state tax ID number after changing the address in Louisiana?
No, your LLC will not need to register for a new state tax ID number if you change the address in Louisiana.
Does changing my LLC address in Louisiana affect my bank accounts?
Yes, you will need to notify your bank of the change in address to ensure smooth transactions.
Can I get a refund if my LLC address change is rejected in Louisiana?
No, Louisiana Secretary of State does not offer refunds if your LLC address change is rejected.
How do I ensure that my LLC address change gets processed promptly in Louisiana?
Double-check all the information on your forms and pay all fees to ensure your LLC address change is processed promptly in Louisiana.
Do I need to publish a notice of the LLC address change in Louisiana?
No, you do not need to publish a notice of LLC address change in Louisiana.
How soon can I use my new LLC address in Louisiana after filing the change?
You can start using your new LLC address in Louisiana as soon as the change is official.
Is there a penalty for failing to notify the Louisiana Secretary of State Office about a change in my LLC address?
There may be consequences for not notifying the Louisiana Secretary of State Office about a change in LLC address. You may be subject to additional fees or may even lose your LLC status.
How can I track the status of my LLC address change in Louisiana?
You can check the status of your LLC address change in Louisiana on the Secretary of State’s website.
How long will it take to receive confirmation of my LLC address change in Louisiana?
Confirmation of the LLC address change in Louisiana typically takes two to three weeks to arrive in the mail.
Can I hire an attorney to handle my LLC address change in Louisiana?
Yes, you can hire an attorney to assist you with LLC address change in Louisiana, but it is not required.
What happens if I enter the wrong information on my LLC address change form when trying to change my LLC address in Louisiana?
Supplying incorrect or incomplete information on your LLC address change form can result in termination of your LLC.
What if I did not receive any notice about annual report filings of the LLC addresses from the Louisiana Secretary of State?
You can check with the Louisiana Secretary of State directly on what is required. You can also check the paperwork on previous filings to determine if missed regarding annual reports.
How do I change the LLC address in Louisiana?
You can change your LLC address in Louisiana by filing the necessary forms with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office.
What is the fee to change the LLC address in Louisiana?
The fee to change an LLC address in Louisiana is $35.
Can I change the registered agent and the address of an LLC at the same time in Louisiana?
Yes, you can change both the registered agent and the address of an LLC at the same time in Louisiana.
What should I do if I can’t remember my LLC’s Louisiana Secretary of State Business Identification Number (BIN)?
Contact the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office and request your LLC’s BIN.
How long does it take to process a Louisiana LLC address change?
It usually takes about 5-7 business days to process a Louisiana LLC address change.
Can I change my LLC’s address in Louisiana online?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s address in Louisiana online using geauxBIZ.
Can my Louisiana LLC have a virtual office address?
Yes, your Louisiana LLC can have a virtual office address.
What types of forms do I need to file to change my LLC address in Louisiana?
You need to file either the Articles of Amendment or the Annual Report to change your LLC address in Louisiana.
What is the difference between the Articles of Amendment and the Annual Report in Louisiana?
The Articles of Amendment are used to change specific information about your LLC, while the Annual Report is used to verify and update your LLC’s information.
Can I file the Articles of Amendment or the Annual Report online in Louisiana?
Yes, you can file either form online using geauxBIZ.
What happens if I don’t update my Louisiana LLC’s address?
If you fail to update your Louisiana LLC’s address, you could miss important mail or documents, resulting in penalties or legal issues.
Can I change the address of my Louisiana LLC if I have outstanding Louisiana taxes?
No, you must pay all outstanding Louisiana taxes before you can change your LLC’s address.
Can I change the address of my Louisiana LLC if I have outstanding fees or penalties?
No, you must pay all outstanding fees and penalties before you can change your LLC’s address.
Can I file the Annual Report early to change my Louisiana LLC’s address?
Yes, you can file the Annual Report early to change your Louisiana LLC’s address.
Do I need to file anything with the IRS if I change my LLC address in Louisiana?
No, you don’t need to file anything with the IRS if you change your LLC address in Louisiana.
Can someone else change my Louisiana LLC’s address for me?
Yes, you can appoint someone else to change your Louisiana LLC’s address for you by giving them power of attorney.
What is the Louisiana Secretary of State’s contact information for LLC address changes?
You can contact the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office by phone at 225-925-4704 or by email at [email protected].
Do I need to notify my Louisiana bank when I change my LLC address?
Yes, you should notify your Louisiana bank when you change your LLC address.
Can I change my Louisiana LLC’s address to a PO Box?
Yes, you can change your Louisiana LLC’s address to a PO Box.
Can I change my Louisiana LLC’s address to an out-of-state address?
Yes, you can change your Louisiana LLC’s address to an out-of-state address.
Can I change my Louisiana LLC’s address to a foreign country address?
Yes, you can change your Louisiana LLC’s address to a foreign country address.
Do I need to update my Louisiana LLC’s operating agreement when I change its address?
Yes, you should update your Louisiana LLC’s operating agreement when you change its address.
Can I change my Louisiana LLC’s address without my LLC members’ approval?
No, you need your LLC members’ approval to change your Louisiana LLC’s address.
Where can I find the Louisiana LLC Articles of Amendment form?
You can find the Louisiana LLC Articles of Amendment form on the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website.
Can I file the Louisiana LLC Articles of Amendment form by mail?
Yes, you can file the Louisiana LLC Articles of Amendment form by mail.
Can I change the name of my Louisiana LLC when I change its address?
Yes, you can change the name of your Louisiana LLC when you change its address by filing the Articles of Amendment.
Can I change my Louisiana LLC’s address without hiring a lawyer?
Yes, you don’t need to hire a lawyer to change your Louisiana LLC’s address.
When should I change my Louisiana LLC’s address?
You should change your Louisiana LLC’s address whenever you move or acquire a new office space.
When will my Louisiana LLC’s address change take effect?
Your Louisiana LLC’s address change will take effect when the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office accepts and approves your filing.
What happens to my existing Louisiana LLC formation documents if I change my LLC’s address?
Your existing Louisiana LLC formation documents remain the same if you change your LLC’s address.

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Conclusion

Changing your LLC’s address in Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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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