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

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Change Minnesota Business Name

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

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 Minnesota

Before Changing Your Business Name in Minnesota

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

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

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How to Change a Business Name in Minnesota

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

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

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota. 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 one year, which costs $50 for online filing and $30 for offline filing.

In Minnesota, 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 1 year. You must file a name reservation application with the Minnesota 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 Minnesota, you must begin putting together the Articles of Amendment as soon as you are prepared with the new Minnesota 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)
  • Minnesota filing fee for amendments
  • The business’s entity number, as provided by the state of Minnesota
  • Board of Directors expression of approval (for corporations)
  • Details about shares (if applicable)

When registering a new business name with the Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota regulations. In Minnesota, amendment cost is $35.00.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Minnesota’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Articles of Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Articles of Amendment in Minnesota.

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 Minnesota business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Minnesota Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota’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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota (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 Minnesota?
You need to file an amendment form with the Minnesota secretary of state.
Can I change the name of my business by myself?
Yes, you can.
How much does it cost to change a business name in Minnesota?
The fee is $55 for filing an amendment form.
Will I need to get a new EIN if I change my business name in Minnesota?
No, unless you formed a new business entity.
Can I still operate my business while the name change is being processed in Minnesota?
Yes, you may continue to operate using the previous name if you filed the amendment form.
How long does it take to change a business name in Minnesota?
It takes 2-3 weeks to receive a new certificate of amendment.
What is the process for changing the legal name of a corporation in Minnesota?
You need to file a certificate of amendment with the Minnesota secretary of state.
Do I need to renew any other documentation after a name change in Minnesota?
Yes, you may need to update licenses, permits, and tax ID numbers.
How many times can I change my business name in Minnesota?
There is no limit if you filed a new certificate of amendment each time.
Can a LLC name be changed in Minnesota?
Yes, you need to provide an amendment form to change the name.
Can I still use the old business name after I change it in Minnesota?
No, you need to use the new name on all public documents, signs, and advertising.
Do I need to inform my customers about the name change in Minnesota?
No, but it is recommended to avoid confusion.
Do I need to re-register my trade name after a name change in Minnesota?
Yes, you need to file an amendment form for your trade name as well.
Can I change the name of my sole proprietorship in Minnesota?
Yes, you may file registration for new fictitious business name/mixture for sole proprietorship.
What is a restricted name change in Minnesota?
It is a change that feeds licensing boards’ notice to see if the same or similar names are already registered.
What happens if my name change is denied by the Minnesota secretary of state?
The Minnesota secretary will return your documents explaining their reasoning for the denial.
Can I change the name of my non-profit organization in Minnesota?
Yes, you have to file a certificate of amendment with the Minnesota secretary of state.
How important is it to reserve a business name in Minnesota?
If you would like to ensure your desired name is available use Name Reservation Service before filing incorporation in Minnesota.
Do I need to notify all my clients about the name change in Minnesota?
No, but it is recommended to avoid confusion.
Can I change my registered agent when I change the name of my business in Minnesota?
Yes, you can file an amendment for registered agent when you change your company name.
Do I need to change my business tax ID number in Minnesota when I change my business name?
No, unless you formed a new business entity.
Can an attorney file a business name change on behalf of his/her client in Minnesota?
Yes, an attorney can help process the name change on behalf of the client.
Do I need to reapply for a doing business as (DBA) if I change my business name?
Yes, you will need to apply again as per new business name.
Will I need to update my business bank account after changing the business name in Minnesota?
Yes, to avoid confusion and unintended long-term credit issues.
What happens if my business name has already been taken in Minnesota?
You will need to come up with a new name or find a similar available name.
Do I need to change the name on my company’s assets after changing the name of my business in Minnesota?
Yes, to avoid any unintentionally miss-handled actions with assets.
Is there a deadline or due-date for me to change my business name in Minnesota?
No deadline, however, you can expedite the amendment with the additional fees.
Can I change my business name at the same time of a merger or acquisition in Minnesota?
Yes, you need to make sure your new name follows law and it’s different while registering for assisting along the merger etc.
How soon can I use my new name once the name is changed in Minnesota?
You can officially begin using the name as soon as you receive the approved certificate of amendment.
Does changing my business name in Minnesota affect my federal tax ID number?
No, changing your business name does not affect your federal tax ID number.
What is the filing fee for changing my business name in Minnesota?
The fee for filing a Name Change Amendment in Minnesota is $50.
Can I check if my desired business name is already taken in Minnesota?
Yes, you can check the availability of your desired business name on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
How long does it take to process a business name change in Minnesota?
Typically, it takes about 3-5 business days for the Minnesota Secretary of State to process a Name Change Amendment.
Do I need to notify my customers of my business name change in Minnesota?
It is recommended that you notify your customers of your business name change in Minnesota to avoid any confusion.
Can I still use my old business name after changing it in Minnesota?
No, once you have officially changed your business name in Minnesota, you should no longer use your old business name.
What happens if someone else has the same business name as me in Minnesota?
If someone else has the same business name as you in Minnesota, you may want to consider changing your business name or adding a unique identifier to your name.
Can I change my business name and my business entity type at the same time in Minnesota?
Yes, you can change both your business name and entity type at the same time by filing the appropriate forms with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Do I need to obtain a new Minnesota business license if I change my business name?
No, you do not need to obtain a new Minnesota business license if you change your business name.
Can I reserve my new business name in Minnesota before officially changing it?
Yes, you can reserve your desired business name in Minnesota for up to 12 months by filing a Name Reservation with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
Is there a recommended timeline for changing my business name in Minnesota?
It is recommended that you change your business name as soon as possible in Minnesota to avoid any potential legal issues.
Do I need to update my business name in Minnesota on my tax documents?
Yes, you should update your business name on all of your tax documents in Minnesota.
Can I change my business name online in Minnesota?
Yes, you can file a Name Change Amendment online through the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
Is there a minimum or maximum length for my new business name in Minnesota?
There is no minimum or maximum length for your new business name in Minnesota.
Can I change my business name multiple times in Minnesota?
Yes, you can change your business name multiple times in Minnesota as long as you follow the proper procedures.
Do I need to update my Minnesota business registration if I change my business name?
Yes, you should update your business registration with the Minnesota Secretary of State if you change your business name.
Can changing my business name in Minnesota affect my business loans or credit cards?
It is possible that changing your business name in Minnesota could affect your business loans or credit cards, so you should contact your lenders and credit card companies to inform them of the change.
Can I change my business name in Minnesota if I have an active business license in another state?
Yes, you can change your business name in Minnesota if you have an active business license in another state.
How can I update my business name on my Minnesota state tax ID account?
You can update your business name on your Minnesota state tax ID account by contacting the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
Can I still accept payments under my old business name after changing it in Minnesota?
After officially changing your business name in Minnesota, you should no longer accept payments under your old business name.
How do I update my business name on my Minnesota sales tax permit?
You can update your business name on your Minnesota sales tax permit by contacting the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
Does changing my business name in Minnesota affect my business insurance policies?
It is possible that changing your business name in Minnesota could affect your business insurance policies, so you should contact your insurer to inform them of the change.
Can I change my business name in Minnesota if I have an outstanding tax debt?
Yes, you can change your business name in Minnesota if you have an outstanding tax debt, but you should still pay off your debts as soon as possible.
What should I do if my business name change is denied in Minnesota?
If your business name change is denied in Minnesota, you should receive an explanation for the denial and can either appeal the decision or choose a different name.
Can I change my business name with the Minnesota Secretary of State if I have a trade name or DBA name?
Yes, you can change your business name with the Minnesota Secretary of State regardless of whether you have a trade name or DBA name.
What happens if I don’t update my business name in Minnesota?
Failing to update your business name in Minnesota could result in legal or financial consequences, so it is important to follow proper procedures for a name change.
How do I update my business name on my Minnesota franchise tax renewal?
You can update your business name on your Minnesota franchise tax renewal by contacting the Minnesota Secretary of State.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Minnesota 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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