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

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Change Maryland Business Name

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

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 Maryland

Before Changing Your Business Name in Maryland

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

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

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How to Change a Business Name in Maryland

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

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

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Maryland, 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 Maryland. In this manner, you can choose any name you desire for your business. A DBA allows a company to operate under the name of the person or entity who owns it. If you have decided to file for a DBA, you can file it in three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing..

However, before filing a DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA for up to five years, which costs $25 Filing Fee and $50 Expedited Fee.

In Maryland, 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 Maryland 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 Maryland, you must begin putting together the Articles of Amendment as soon as you are prepared with the new Maryland 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)
  • Maryland filing fee for amendments
  • The business’s entity number, as provided by the state of Maryland
  • Board of Directors expression of approval (for corporations)
  • Details about shares (if applicable)

When registering a new business name with the Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland regulations. In Maryland, amendment cost is $100.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Maryland Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Maryland’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Articles of Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Articles of Amendment in Maryland.

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 Maryland business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Maryland Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland’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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland (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 Maryland?
To change your business name in Maryland, you need to file Articles of Amendment with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
How much does it cost to change a business name in Maryland?
The fee to file Articles of Amendment in Maryland to change your business name is $100.
How long does it take to change a business name in Maryland?
The processing time to change a business name in Maryland generally takes about two weeks after the Articles of Amendment are received.
Can I change my business name on my own in Maryland?
Yes, you can change your business name on your own in Maryland by filing Articles of Amendment with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
Do I need to notify the state of Maryland after changing my business name?
Yes, you need to file Articles of Amendment with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation to notify the state of Maryland after changing your business name.
What information do I need to provide to change my business name in Maryland?
To change your business name in Maryland, you need to provide your business name, your business entity type, the new name for your business, and the reason for the name change.
Can I change my business name in Maryland online?
No, you need to file Articles of Amendment by mail to change your business name in Maryland.
Is it possible to change my Maryland business name if I’m a sole proprietor?
Yes, even if you’re a sole proprietor you still need to file Articles of Amendment with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation to change your business name in the state of Maryland.
Can I change my Maryland business name if I’m a foreign corporation?
Yes, as a foreign corporation, you can change your business name in Maryland by filing Articles of Amendment with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
How do I get a copy of my Maryland Articles of Amendment?
You can obtain a copy of your Maryland Articles of Amendment from the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation by submitting a request with the necessary fees.
What happens to my taxes after changing my Maryland business name?
Your taxes should not be affected after changing your business name in Maryland, but it’s always advisable to consult a tax professional.
Do I need to update my Maryland business license after changing my business name?
Yes, after changing your business name in Maryland, you need to update your business license with the new name.
Can I file Articles of Amendment to change my business name in Maryland if my business is not in good standing?
No, you can’t file Articles of Amendment to change your business name in Maryland if your business is not in good standing.
Are there any documents I need to submit in addition to the Articles of Amendment to change my business name in Maryland?
No, there are no additional documents that you need to submit to change your business name in Maryland.
How do I know if the new name I’ve chosen for my business is available in Maryland?
You can search the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation database to find out if the new name for your business is available in Maryland.
What if my desired business name is already taken in Maryland?
If your desired business name is taken, you need to choose a different name for your business.
Is it possible to reserve a business name in Maryland?
Yes, you can reserve a business name in Maryland by filing with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation and paying the required fees.
Are there any restrictions on what I can name my business in Maryland?
Yes, your business name can’t be too similar to the name of an existing business, it can’t infringe on someone else’s trademark, and it can’t contain certain words that are restricted in Maryland.
Can I change my business name at any time in Maryland?
Yes, you can change your business name at any time in Maryland by filing Articles of Amendment.
What is the maximum length of a business name in Maryland?
There is no maximum length for a business name in Maryland, but it can’t be too similar to an existing business name.
What is the processing time for a business name reservation in Maryland?
The processing time for a business name reservation in Maryland is typically seven business days.
How long does it take to file Articles of Amendment in Maryland?
It generally takes two weeks for Articles of Amendment to be processed and your business name to be changed in Maryland.
Can I apply for a business name renewal in Maryland?
No, you need to file Articles of Amendment to change your business name in Maryland. There’s no renewal process for business names.
Can I change my business name in Maryland to something that I think would be more recognizable and memorable?
Yes, as long as the new name you choose meets Maryland’s guidelines for business names, you can change it to anything you want.
Will my business name change affect my federal EIN?
No, your federal EIN will usually remain the same after changing your business name in Maryland.
How long does it take for my EIN to be updated after changing my business name in Maryland?
It should update automatically within one to two weeks after you’ve changed your business name in Maryland.
Do I need to get a new business bank account after changing my business name in Maryland?
Many banks will require you to get a new bank account in your updated business name after you file with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
Can I still receive mail with my old Maryland business name after changing it?
Yes, your old business name may still receive mail for a short time after changing it in Maryland while the updates to official paperwork are taking effect.
What should I do if I have more questions about changing my business name in Maryland?
If you have additional questions about changing your business name in Maryland, you can contact the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation via phone or email.
What paperwork do I need to file to change my business name in Maryland?
You need to file Articles of Amendment with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT).
How much does it cost to file for a name change in Maryland?
The filing fee for Articles of Amendment is $100.
How long does it take to get a business name change approved in Maryland?
Processing times can vary, but it typically takes around 3-4 weeks.
Can a business name change be done online in Maryland?
Yes, you can file Articles of Amendment online through the SDAT website.
Do I need to register my new business name with the state of Maryland separately?
No, once your Articles of Amendment are approved, your new business name will be registered automatically.
Will I need a new EIN if I change my business name in Maryland?
No, you can keep your existing EIN.
Can I change my business name during the annual report filing period in Maryland?
Yes, you can file for a name change at any time, regardless of annual report filing periods.
Can I change my business name in Maryland if I am not a resident of the state?
Yes, you can file Articles of Amendment no matter where you are located.
Can I reserve a new business name before I file for a name change in Maryland?
Yes, you can file a Name Reservation Request with the SDAT to reserve a name for up to 30 days while you prepare your Articles of Amendment.
Do I need to publish a notice of my business name change in a Maryland newspaper?
No, there is no publishing requirement for business name changes in Maryland.
What happens if my business name change is rejected by the SDAT in Maryland?
You will be notified of the reason for the rejection and given an opportunity to correct the error and resubmit your Articles of Amendment.
Can I change my business name more than once in Maryland?
Yes, but the process will be the same for each change and will require a new filing fee.
Will my old business name still be available for use by other businesses in Maryland?
Yes, your old business name will become available for use once your name change is approved.
Can I change my sole proprietorship business name in Maryland?
Yes, you can change the name of your sole proprietorship by filing Articles of Amendment.
Can I change my LLC operating agreement along with my business name change in Maryland?
Yes, you can make changes to your operating agreement at any time, including in conjunction with a name change.
Will my Maryland business identification number change if I change my business name?
No, your business identification number will remain the same.
Can I change my business name and entity type at the same time in Maryland?
Yes, you can file Articles of Amendment to change both the name and entity type of your business simultaneously.
Do I need to update my business licenses and permits if I change my business name in Maryland?
Yes, you will need to update your licenses and permits with the new name once the name change is approved.
Can I get a refund if I change my mind about my business name change in Maryland?
No, the filing fee for Articles of Amendment is non-refundable.
Can I file for a name change and dissolution of my business at the same time in Maryland?
Yes, you can file Articles of Amendment and Articles of Dissolution at the same time.
Can I change my partnership business name in Maryland?
Yes, you can change the name of your partnership by filing Articles of Amendment.
Can I change my S Corporation business name in Maryland?
Yes, you can change the name of your S Corporation by filing Articles of Amendment.
Can I change my C Corporation business name in Maryland?
Yes, you can change the name of your C Corporation by filing Articles of Amendment.
Can I change the registered agent for my business at the same time I change my business name in Maryland?
Yes, you can include a change of registered agent with your Articles of Amendment filing.
Can I keep my old business name as a trade name and use my new business name on official documents in Maryland?
Yes, you can keep your old business name as a trade name and use your new business name on official documents if you so choose.
Can I change the spelling of my business name in Maryland?
Yes, you can make minor spelling changes to your business name through Articles of Amendment.
Will changing my business name affect my business credit score in Maryland?
It depends. If you keep the same EIN and maintain your credit history with vendors and creditors, your credit score may not be impacted.
Can I change my nonprofit organization’s name in Maryland?
Yes, nonprofits can change their name by filing for a name change through Articles of Amendment.
Can I change the name of my Maryland-based foreign entity?
Yes, you can change the name of your foreign entity doing business in Maryland by complying with the consent and registration requirements for foreign entities in the state.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Maryland 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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