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

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Change Mississippi Business Name

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

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 Mississippi

Before Changing Your Business Name in Mississippi

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

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

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How to Change a Business Name in Mississippi

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

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

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Mississippi, 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 Mississippi. 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 one method, online.

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

In Mississippi, 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 180 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Mississippi Secretary of State to keep the name. 

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Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Amendment

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

When registering a new business name with the Mississippi 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 Amendment

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Mississippi 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 Certificate of Formation for an LLC, depending on your business structure.

To file the amendment, you’ll need to:

  1. Obtain the appropriate amendment form from the Mississippi 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 Mississippi regulations. In Mississippi, amendment cost is $50 .
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Mississippi’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Amendment in Mississippi.

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 Mississippi business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Mississippi Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi’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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi (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 Mississippi?
To change your business name in Mississippi, you need to file a Certificate of Amendment with the Secretary of State’s office.
Can I change my business’s name without registering it?
No. To use a new name for your business, you must register it with the Mississippi Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to change my business name in Mississippi?
The cost to change your business name in Mississippi is $25.
How long does it take to change my business name in Mississippi?
It generally takes the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office 5-7 business days to process a Certificate of Amendment.
Do I need a lawyer to change my business name in Mississippi?
No, you do not need a lawyer to change your business name in Mississippi.
What if my business is a nonprofit? Is it still $25 to change the name?
Yes, it’s still only $25 to file a Certificate of Amendment to change a nonprofit’s name in Mississippi.
Will I have to get a new tax ID if I change my business name in Mississippi?
No, you can keep the same tax ID number when you change the name of your business.
Do I need to notify my customers if I change my business name in Mississippi?
You are not required to notify your customers of a name change, but it’s a good idea to let them know to avoid any confusion.
Am I required to re-register my business with the Mississippi Secretary of State if I change its name?
No, you don’t need to register your business again if you change its name.
Can I change my business name online in Mississippi?
Yes, you can file a Certificate of Amendment online through the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website.
What documents do I need to change my business name in Mississippi?
To change your business name in Mississippi, you need to file a Certificate of Amendment with the Mississippi Secretary of State.
Do I need to publish notice of my name change in Mississippi?
No, there is no requirement to publish notice of a name change in Mississippi.
Can I trademark my new business name at the same time that I change it in Mississippi?
Yes, you can file a trademark application for your new business name in Mississippi.
Do I need to get a new business license if I change my business name in Mississippi?
It depends on where your business is located in Mississippi. Some cities and counties require a new business license when you change the name of your business.
What do I do if the name I want for my new business is already taken in Mississippi?
You need to choose a different name that’s not already registered with the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office.
Is there a fee to reserve a new name until it’s available to use in Mississippi?
No, there is no fee to reserve a new name in Mississippi.
Can I change my business name and its legal structure at the same time in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change both your business name and legal structure at the same time in Mississippi.
Will my business’s EIN be affected if I change its name in Mississippi?
No, your business’s EIN (Employer Identification Number) will not be affected by a name change.
How often can I change my business’s name in Mississippi?
There is no limit to how often you can change your business’s name in Mississippi.
How do I know if my name change has been approved in Mississippi?
You will receive a conformation letter or email from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office confirm the name change.
Does a business name change affect my sales tax number in Mississippi?
No, a name change will not affect your business’s sales tax number in Mississippi.
If I change the name of my business in Mississippi, do I need to file new Articles of Incorporation or a new LLC Operating Agreement?
No, you do not need to file new Articles of Incorporation or a new LLC Operating Agreement in Mississippi if you change your business name.
Can I change the name of an inactive business in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change the name of an inactive business in Mississippi.
Can a sole proprietorship change its name in Mississippi?
Yes, a sole proprietorship can change its name in Mississippi.
Can I change my business’s name in Mississippi if there are pending lawsuits?
It depends. You should consult with a business attorney before changing your business’s name if there are pending lawsuits.
Can I change my business’s name in Mississippi if I have unpaid debts?
Yes, you can change your business’s name in Mississippi, but it does not absolve any unpaid debts related to your business; you’d have to clear the unpaid debts on your own after the name change.
Will I need to update any business contracts or agreements after changing my business name in Mississippi?
Yes, you should update any business contracts or agreements to reflect your new business name in Mississippi.
Can I get a new EIN if I change my business name in Mississippi?
No, you shouldn’t. Always use your previous EIN even after a name change.
How can I change my business name in Mississippi?
You can change your business name in Mississippi by filing the necessary forms and paying the applicable fees with the state government.
What forms do I need to file to change my business name in Mississippi?
You will need to file a Certificate of Amendment to your organization’s Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization or a Certificate of Name Change to your business entity’s legal name.
Can I change the name of a nonprofit organization in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change the name of a nonprofit organization in Mississippi by filing a Certificate of Amendment to your organization’s Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State.
How long does it take to change a business name in Mississippi?
The processing time for a business name change in Mississippi can vary, but it typically takes around 10-15 business days to complete.
How much does it cost to change a business name in Mississippi?
The cost to change a business name in Mississippi depends on the type of business you have and the forms that need to be filed. Fees generally range from $50 to $150.
What happens to my business license if I change my business name in Mississippi?
If you change your business name in Mississippi, you will need to apply for a new business license and update all of your business registration records with the state.
Do I need to hire a lawyer to change my business name in Mississippi?
No, you do not need to hire a lawyer to change your business name in Mississippi. You can complete the process on your own by filing the necessary forms and paying the required fees.
Can I change my business name in Mississippi if I have outstanding debts or liabilities?
Yes, you can change your business name in Mississippi even if you have outstanding debts or liabilities. However, it’s important to make sure you notify any creditors and update all contracts, documents and agreements reflecting the previous name.
Will my tax ID number change if I change my business name in Mississippi?
Your tax ID number will not change if you change your business name in Mississippi, unless you decide to operate under a different legal structure.
What should I do if I’ve already registered my business name in Mississippi, but want to change it now?
You can change your registered business name in Mississippi by filing the necessary forms and paying the applicable fees, and updating any records reflecting the previous name.
Can I change my LLC name in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change your LLC name in Mississippi by filing a Certificate of Amendment to your LLC’s Articles of Organization with the state government.
Can I change my corporation name in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change your corporation name in Mississippi by filing a Certificate of Amendment to your Articles of Incorporation with the state government.
Can I change my sole proprietorship name in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change your sole proprietorship name in Mississippi by submitting your new name with any required local or state registrations.
Do I need to notify customers and vendors of my business name change in Mississippi?
It’s a good idea to inform your customers and vendors of your business name change in Mississippi, but it’s not a legal requirement.
Can I change my business name to anything I want in Mississippi?
You can choose a new business name in Mississippi, but it must not conflict and should abide by business naming guidelines set by Mississippi government.
Can I change both my legal and company name at the same time in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change both your legal and company name at the same time in Mississippi, by filing the relevant papers.
Can I change the legal name of my business, but keep the same company name in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change the legal name of your business representing yourself differently to legal entities but operate under the same company name.
Can I see if my desired business name in Mississippi is available before I file for a name change?
Yes, you can easily check if your desired business name in Mississippi is available prior to filing the documents required.
Is changing your business name in Mississippi the same as corporate entity conversion?
No, changing a business name in Mississippi is only changing your legal or registration name, while a corporate entity conversion is an overhaul of a corporation’s identity by becoming a more favorable legal structure under strict guidelines.
What happens if my business name change application in Mississippi gets rejected?
You will be informed about the reason for rejection of your application, and possibly how to reapply and follow requirements before resubmitting.
Can I keep using my old business stationery after changing my name in Mississippi?
It’s up to you to you if you want to continue using old business stationery after changing your business name, depending on your approval by Mississippi authorities for projects, assignments and initiating any investment transactions.
Do I need new business domain and emails after changing my business name?
You can continue using an existing business domain and emails after changing your business name in Mississippi, but protect your own brand image and update your company’s information on your domain name Registration.
How much time do I have to update the public with my new business name?
You should try to immediately notify all your customer with your new name after changing your name in Mississippi and don’t delay beyond two weeks to update and create awareness in your database.
Can I change my business address while applying for name change in Mississippi?
Yes, you can combine addressing changes with name changes when filing amendments for change for the right wording and change of registration location.
I’ve filed for a business name but have not yet started…can I still change my stakeholder name?
Yes, it is possible. However, it is important to file all adjustments before starting, or else more complexities could arise if attempts are made at a later date.
Do I need multiple Certificates of Amendment when changing multiple details of my business?
When updating different details such as the business name or address in Mississippi, each one requires continuity through fresh certification and amendments specific to individual details under contemplation.
Can I add or remove an owner’s name when changing my business name in Mississippi?
Yes, when changing your Business Name in Mississippi and it requires alterations in ownership within the organization, you should follow the required pattern for such adjustments.
How long is a business name change application valid in Mississippi?
After the registration process has been completed and the new implementation comes into effect, confirmation of details of approval or modification become effective immediately as applicable for necessary reporting requirements.
Can government entities check due approval when changing business name in Mississippi automatically?
Normally, Government entities require new information promptly updated after legal approval when changing business names in Mississippi, so as to generate appropriate certification within it’s records. thereby increasing the follow-through of effective communication.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Mississippi 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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