Changing Your Business Name in New Jersey | A Step-by-Step Guide

by
Change New Jersey Business Name

In New Jersey, 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 New Jersey. Whatever the reason, changing a business name in New Jersey 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 New Jersey.

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 New Jersey

Before Changing Your Business Name in New Jersey

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

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

LLC Service

Rating & Price

Top Features

Learn More

#1 Recommendation

$599 + Federal Fee

  • Trademark Search

  • Trademark Registration

  • Trademark monitoring

Learn More

$239.99/year

  • Single Subscription

  • Trademark Registration

  • Attorney service for Trademark

Learn More

How to Change a Business Name in New Jersey

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

Changing your company name in New Jersey is relatively easy. Before we go into the steps, you should know that some rules must be followed when naming a business in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey. 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey is essential. You must conduct a name search through the New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services to do this.

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey. 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 two methods, by mail and in person.

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

In New Jersey, 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 120 days. You must file a name reservation application with the New Jersey Secretary of State to keep the name. 

Recommended: Embark on your entrepreneurial journey confidently and affordably with LegalZoom’s DBA service, the beacon that guides businesses to credible branding and comprehensive compliance. Discover how effortless success can truly be!

– LegalZoom – ($99 + Filling Fees)

Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Certificate of Amendment

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

When registering a new business name with the New Jersey 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 Certificate of Amendment

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the New Jersey Secretary of State’s office to change your business name officially. This process typically involves filing an amendment to your company’s Certificate 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey regulations. In New Jersey, amendment cost is $100.00.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the New Jersey Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your New Jersey’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Certificate of Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Certificate of Amendment in New Jersey.

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 New Jersey business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey’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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey (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 New Jersey?
You can change your business name by filing a Business Name Amendment form with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
Can I change my business name without registering it in New Jersey?
No, you must register your business name in New Jersey and file a Business Name Amendment form to change it.
How much does it cost to change my business name in New Jersey?
It costs $50 to file a Business Name Amendment form in New Jersey.
How long does it take to change my business name in New Jersey?
It can take up to 10 business days to process a Business Name Amendment form in New Jersey.
Do I need to get a new tax ID number if I change my business name in New Jersey?
No, you can keep your existing tax ID number if you change your business name in New Jersey.
Do I have to notify the IRS if I change my business name in New Jersey?
Yes, you must notify the IRS of your business name change if you are a sole proprietor or a partnership.
How do I notify the IRS of my business name change in New Jersey?
You can notify the IRS by filing a Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number).
Do I need to notify my customers or vendors if I change my business name in New Jersey?
Yes, it’s a good idea to notify your customers and vendors of your business name change to avoid any confusion.
Do I need to get a new business license if I change my business name in New Jersey?
It depends on your business structure and industry. You may need to apply for a new business license or update your existing one.
Will changing my business name affect my business credit in New Jersey?
Potentially, yes. Changing your business name could affect your business credit score and may require you to update your credit accounts.
Can I change my business name to anything I want in New Jersey?
No, your new business name must be unique and not already in use by another company in New Jersey.
Do I need to file a new DBA if I change my business name in New Jersey?
No, you don’t need to file a new DBA (Doing Business As) if you are only changing your business name.
Can I change the spelling of my business name when I amend it with the state of New Jersey?
Potentially, yes. The state of New Jersey will consider your new business name as long as it is not too similar to an existing name.
Can I change both the legal name and trade name of my New Jersey business at the same time?
Yes, you can change both your legal name and trade name at the same time with the Business Name Amendment form.
Do I need an attorney to help me change my business name in New Jersey?
No, you don’t need an attorney to change your business name in New Jersey. However, you may want to consult with one if you have any legal questions or concerns.
Do I need to update my business entity documents with the state of New Jersey if I change my business name?
No, you don’t need to update your business entity documents (such as your articles of incorporation or partnership agreement) with the state of New Jersey if you change your business name.
Can I change my business name over the phone or online in New Jersey?
No, you must file a Business Name Amendment form with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services to change your business name.
Should I check to see if my new business name is available as a domain name before I register it in New Jersey?
Yes, it’s a good idea to check the availability of a domain name before you register your new business name in New Jersey.
Can I reserve a new business name before I file an amendment in New Jersey?
No, you cannot reserve a new business name in New Jersey. The state will only consider your new business name when you file the Business Name Amendment form.
What happens if I don’t change my business name formally in New Jersey?
Your business name will remain unchanged with the state of New Jersey and may cause confusion with customers, vendors, and government agencies.
Do I need to update my business name on my insurance policies when I change it in New Jersey?
Yes, you should update your business name on your insurance policies to avoid any confusion or issues with coverage.
How often can I change my business name in New Jersey?
There is no limit to how often you can change your business name in New Jersey, but it may be confusing to your customers and vendors if you change it frequently.
How does changing my business name affect my trademark in New Jersey?
Changing your business name could potentially affect your trademark if your new name is too similar to an existing trademark. It’s a good idea to consult with an attorney or trademark specialist.
What should I do if I want to change my business name and relocate to a different state from New Jersey?
You will need to file a new Business Name Amendment form and register your business in your new state. You should also update your business licensing, banking, and insurance accounts.
Can I change my business name and my business structure at the same time in New Jersey?
Yes, you can change your business name and your business structure at the same time in New Jersey by filing appropriate forms with the state.
Why do I need to change my business name officially in New Jersey?
You need to change your business name officially in New Jersey to avoid any legal issues, ensure clarity in your communications, and establish a professional image.
How can I make my business name change public and official in New Jersey?
You can update your marketing materials, website, and social media accounts to reflect your new business name and officially notify your customers and clients.
How long do I have to wait before using my new business name in public in New Jersey?
Once you file a Business Name Amendment form and receive confirmation from the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, you can start using your new business name immediately.
How do I change the business name in New Jersey?
To change a business name in New Jersey, you need to file a Business Name Change (BN-9) form with the state Division of Taxation.
How much does it cost to change a business name in New Jersey?
The fee to change a business name in New Jersey is $25.
Can I change my business name anytime I want?
Yes, you can change your business name at any time in New Jersey.
Do I need to file a DBA in New Jersey if I’m changing my business name?
If your business is organized as a sole proprietorship, you need to file a DBA with the county clerk’s office where your business is located when changing your business name in New Jersey.
Does changing my business name affect my business structure in New Jersey?
No, changing your business name doesn’t affect your business structure in New Jersey.
How long does it take to change a business name in New Jersey?
It takes about 2 to 3 weeks to change a business name in New Jersey.
Can I change my business name and keep the same EIN in New Jersey?
Yes, you can change your business name and keep the same EIN in New Jersey.
Are there any restrictions on the new name for my business in New Jersey?
The name you choose for your business must be available and not already registered to another business in New Jersey.
Can I reserve a new name for my business in New Jersey?
Yes, you can reserve a new name for your business in New Jersey for 120 days by filing a Business Name Reservation form with the state Division of Revenue.
What documents do I need to change my business name in New Jersey?
You need to file a Business Name Change (BN-9) form and a copy of your certificate of incorporation, if applicable, to change your business name in New Jersey.
Will I need a new business license if I change my business name in New Jersey?
If you already have a business license, you won’t need a new one if you change your business name in New Jersey.
What should I do once my new business name is approved in New Jersey?
Once your new business name is approved in New Jersey, update your business records and notify your customers and vendors of the change.
How can I check if my new business name is available in New Jersey?
You can search for available business names in New Jersey using the Business Gateway Services website.
Do I need to update my business name with the IRS if I change it in New Jersey?
If you have an EIN, you must update the IRS with your new business name when you change it in New Jersey.
What happens if I don’t change my business name after a merger or acquisition in New Jersey?
If you don’t change your business name after a merger or acquisition in New Jersey, you’ll still be legally responsible for the previous owner’s liabilities.
Can I change just a part of my business name in New Jersey?
Yes, you can change just a part of your business name in New Jersey.
Can I change my business name online in New Jersey?
You can’t change your business name online in New Jersey. You need to file a Business Name Change (BN-9) form by mail or in person.
How can I get help with changing my business name in New Jersey?
You can get help with changing your business name in New Jersey by contacting the Division of Taxation or seeking advice from a professional business consultant.
Do I need to notify my bank when changing my business name in New Jersey?
Yes, you need to notify your bank and update your business name on your bank account when changing it in New Jersey.
Do I need to update my business name with the New Jersey Department of Labor if I change it?
If you have employees, you need to update your business name with the New Jersey Department of Labor when you change it.
How can I get a copy of my certificate of incorporation in New Jersey?
You can get a copy of your certificate of incorporation in New Jersey by ordering it through the Division of Revenue.
What are the consequences of not updating my business name after changing it in New Jersey?
If you don’t update your business name after changing it in New Jersey, you could face legal issues and miss out on new business opportunities.
Can I use a name that’s already trademarked in New Jersey for my business?
No, you can’t use a name that’s already trademarked in New Jersey for your business without permission from the owner of the trademark.
Do I need to change my business name with the New Jersey Division of Revenue if I change my business structure?
Yes, if you change your business structure, you need to change your business name with the New Jersey Division of Revenue.
How can I get a certified copy of my Business Name Change form in New Jersey?
You can get a certified copy of your Business Name Change form in New Jersey by ordering it through the Division of Revenue.
What is the penalty for not changing my business name in New Jersey?
You could face fines and legal repercussions if you don’t change your business name in New Jersey when required.
How can I update my business name online with the New Jersey Sales Tax system?
You can update your business name online with the New Jersey Sales Tax system by logging into your account and making the changes.
Are there any taxes or fees I need to pay when changing my business name in New Jersey?
You need to pay a $25 fee to change your business name in New Jersey.

Also Read

Conclusion

Changing your business name in New Jersey 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.

Leave a Comment