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

by
Change Oklahoma Business Name

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

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 Oklahoma

Before Changing Your Business Name in Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Oklahoma, 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 Oklahoma. 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 Indefinite, which costs $25.

In Oklahoma, if you do not wish to file your LLC right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your LLC name for 60 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Oklahoma 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 Amended Articles of Organization

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

When registering a new business name with the Oklahoma 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 Amended Articles of Organization

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Oklahoma 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 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma regulations. In Oklahoma, amendment cost is $100.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Oklahoma’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Amended Articles of Organization

Additional considerations in filing the Amended Articles of Organization in Oklahoma.

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 Oklahoma business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Oklahoma Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma’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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma (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 the name of my business in Oklahoma?
Business name changes in Oklahoma can be done by filing articles of amendment with the Secretary of State.
Can I change the name of my LLC in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your LLC in Oklahoma by filing articles of amendment with the Secretary of State.
What is the fee to change a business name in Oklahoma?
The fee to change a business name in Oklahoma is $50.
How long does it take to change a business name in Oklahoma?
It can take up to 5 business days to process a business name change in Oklahoma.
Can I change the name of my corporation in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your corporation in Oklahoma by filing articles of amendment with the Secretary of State.
Does changing my business name in Oklahoma affect my tax ID number?
No, changing your business name in Oklahoma does not affect your tax ID number.
Can I use a DBA to operate under a new business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can use a DBA to operate under a new business name in Oklahoma.
Will I need to update my business licenses and permits after changing my business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you will need to update your business licenses and permits after changing your business name in Oklahoma.
How do I notify my vendors and customers about my business name change in Oklahoma?
You can provide them with a notice of your business name change and updated information.
Is a new EIN needed when changing a business name in Oklahoma?
No, a new EIN is not needed when changing a business name in Oklahoma.
Can I change the capitalization of my business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the capitalization of your business name in Oklahoma.
Do I need to publish a notice of my business name change in Oklahoma?
No, you do not need to publish a notice of your business name change in Oklahoma.
What if my desired business name is already in use in Oklahoma?
You will need to choose a different name that is not already in use.
Can I change my business name to a previously used name in Oklahoma?
Yes, as long as the name is not currently in use.
Will I need to update my bank accounts with my new business name?
Yes, you will need to update your bank accounts with your new business name.
Can I change my business name to a name that is trademarked in Oklahoma?
No, you cannot change your business name to a name that is already trademarked in Oklahoma.
Can I change my business name to a name that is copyrighted in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change your business name to a name that is copyrighted in Oklahoma, but you will not have the exclusive rights to use the name.
Will the change of my business name affect my liability in Oklahoma?
No, the change of your business name does not affect your liability in Oklahoma.
Will changing my business name affect my business structure in Oklahoma?
No, changing your business name does not affect your business structure in Oklahoma.
Can I change the name of my sole proprietorship in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your sole proprietorship in Oklahoma.
Can I change the name of my partnership in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your partnership in Oklahoma.
Do I need to notify the Internal Revenue Service of my business name change in Oklahoma?
No, you do not need to notify the Internal Revenue Service of a business name change in Oklahoma.
Can I change the name of my nonprofit in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your nonprofit in Oklahoma.
What do I do if I made a mistake on my business name change documents in Oklahoma?
You can file an amendment to correct the mistake.
Can I change my business name without changing my business structure in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change your business name without changing your business structure in Oklahoma.
Can I use initials for my new business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can use initials for your new business name in Oklahoma.
Can I use a special character in my new business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can use a special character in your new business name in Oklahoma.
How do I search if my desired business name is already used in Oklahoma?
You can search on the Oklahoma Secretary of State website for availability.
Will changing my business name affect my business credit in Oklahoma?
No, changing your business name does not affect your business credit in Oklahoma.
How do I change my business name in Oklahoma?
You can file a Trade Name Registration with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
Can I change my business name online in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can file your Trade Name Registration online through the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s website.
How much does it cost to change a business name in Oklahoma?
It costs $25 to file a Trade Name Registration and change your business name in Oklahoma.
Do I need to register my trade name in Oklahoma?
Yes, if you want to change your business name, you need to register your trade name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
Can I change my business name in Oklahoma without notifying anyone?
No, you must notify all relevant agencies, customers, and vendors about your business name change in Oklahoma.
What agencies do I need to notify of my business name change in Oklahoma?
You need to notify the IRS, Oklahoma Tax Commission, and any licensing boards associated with your trade.
Can I trademark my new business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can apply for a trademark on your new business name with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Can I reserve a new business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can reserve a new business name for 60 days by filing a Name Reservation with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
Can I change my business name and entity type at the same time in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change your business name and entity type in Oklahoma by filing a Conversion Form with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
Will changing my business name affect my tax ID number in Oklahoma?
No, your tax ID number will remain the same, even if you change your business name in Oklahoma.
Do I need to change my EIN number after changing my business name in Oklahoma?
No, your EIN number will stay the same after you change your business name in Oklahoma.
Can I change my Sole Proprietorship business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your Sole Proprietorship by filing a Trade Name Registration with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
Can I change the name of my General Partnership in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your General Partnership by filing a Trade Name Registration with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
Can I change the name of my Corporation in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change the name of your Corporation by filing a Trade Name Registration or Articles of amendment with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
What documents do I need to change my business name in Oklahoma?
You need to file a Trade Name Registration form with the Oklahoma Secretary of State and a new Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation if applicable.
Do I need a registered agent to change my business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you need a registered agent when changing your business name in Oklahoma.
Can I change my business name and move my business to a new address in Oklahoma at the same time?
Yes, you can change your business name and address by filing the appropriate forms with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
Do I need to update my business name on my business license and permits in Oklahoma?
Yes, you need to update your business name on all applicable licenses and permits in Oklahoma.
Can I change my business name on my existing contracts in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change your business name on your existing contracts in Oklahoma by registering your new trade name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State and contacting your customers and vendors.
Can I change my business name if I have outstanding debts in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can change your business name with outstanding debts in Oklahoma. However, it’s important to notify creditors and financial institutions of your name change.
Can I revert to my old business name after changing it in Oklahoma?
Yes, you can file another Trade Name Registration to revert to your old business name in Oklahoma.
Can I change my business name with the city I operate in Oklahoma?
Yes, you need to update your business name with local governments and obtain a new business license, if necessary.
Can I change the name of my business website in Oklahoma as well?
Yes, you should update all online listings and marketing materials to reflect your new business name in Oklahoma.
Is it necessary to update my employees and vendors about my new business name in Oklahoma?
Yes, you should update employees and vendors as soon as possible regarding your new business name in Oklahoma.
What should I do if I need help changing my business name in Oklahoma?
You can contact the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office for assistance and guidance through the process of changing your business name in Oklahoma.

Also Read

Conclusion

Changing your business name in Oklahoma 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