How to Change LLC Address in South Carolina | A Step-by-Step Guide


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
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Change LLC Address in South Carolina

When you form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in South Carolina, you are required to provide a registered office address. This address is the official location where legal documents, such as the service of process, can be delivered. As your business grows, you may find it necessary to change your South Carolina LLC’s address for various reasons, such as moving to a larger space, expanding to multiple locations, or simply changing your Registered Agent.

Changing your South Carolina LLC address may seem daunting, but it can be simple and straightforward with the right information and guidance. In this article, Webinarcare Editorial Team will walk you through the necessary steps to change your South Carolina LLC’s address, ensuring that you remain compliant with South Carolina regulations.

What is a Limited Liability Company?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a specific form of a private limited company that combines aspects of partnership and corporate structures. It is a legal form of a company that provides its owners with limited liability. This means the owners are not personally liable for the company’s debts and liabilities beyond their investments in the company.

When it comes to changing the registered address of the LLC, the responsibility typically falls on the managers or members of the LLC, depending on the company’s structure.

The process is often as follows:

  1. The LLC must approve the change of address. This may happen at a members’ or managers’ meeting.
  2. Once approved, the appropriate form or document to effect the change of address must be filed with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
  3. The filing often includes a small processing fee. After accepting the filing, South Carolina will update the public record with the new address.

In South Carolina, the change of registered address can also be related to the address of the LLC’s Registered Agent. A Registered Agent is a person or entity appointed by the LLC to receive legal papers and service of process on its behalf. This is another crucial role in the LLC that might be involved in the address change, especially if the Registered Agent’s address is used as the business’s official address.

It’s important to note that the specifics of this process can vary quite a bit depending on the South Carolina LLC’s operating agreement and the specific administrative rules and requirements of South Carolina in which the LLC is registered.

Before you change your LLC address, it is advised that you consult with a legal expert. They will be aware of what’s best for you and your business. You can always start an LLC in South Carolina, if you wish to protect your personal assets from business debts.

WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Reasons to Change South Carolina LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in South Carolina can be prompted by several reasons, each distinctive to the business’s circumstances and goals. Here are several common reasons:

  1. Relocation of Business: The main reason for changing an LLC address is the relocation of the business. This could be related to business expansion, more space, or moving to a more convenient location.
  2. Convenience or Strategy: Sometimes, an LLC might change its primary address for convenience or strategic reasons. For instance, the business might move closer to its customer base or an area with favorable economic benefits.
  3. Legal Requirements: If an LLC’s legal or Registered Agent changes its address, the company must also change its registered address since the Registered Agent’s location is where all legal correspondences are sent.
  4. Rental Issues: If the tenant agreement — such as a lease — expires or faces problems, it might compel an LLC to change addresses. Landlord disputes can also lead to a change of address.
  5. Management Changes: If the management or owner of the business changes and the old address is no longer feasible or relevant for the new management, a change of address becomes necessary.
  6. Privacy Concerns: Some LLC owners change their addresses for privacy reasons to separate their personal lives from their business activities.
  7. Cost Reduction: Sometimes, a business may change its address to move to a less expensive area to cut costs.
  8. Disaster Recovery: In the unfortunate event of a natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances, such as a fire outbreak or civil disturbance, changing the LLC’s address might be necessary.
  9. Image and Branding: The business address can sometimes be part of the company image, particularly if the business is in an industry where location matters. An LLC may change addresses in such cases as part of a rebranding effort.

Remember, if your business operates as an LLC in South Carolina, it’s important to update the South Carolina Secretary of State or other relevant state agency whenever you change your business address. It helps to keep your business in good standing and to ensure that all official documents, notifications, and legal correspondences reach you or your Registered Agent.

How to Change South Carolina LLC Address

To change your South Carolina LLC address, you must follow the guidelines that include determining whether you need to change your LLC’s address, update your registered office address, update your principal place of business address, notify the IRS, and inform other relevant parties due to the amendment of your LLC address. 

Step 1: Determine If You Need to Change Your LLC’s Address

Before you begin the process of changing your South Carolina LLC’s address, it’s essential to determine whether a change is indeed necessary. In South Carolina, there are two primary addresses associated with your LLC:

Registered Office Address

This is the official address where legal documents and official correspondence will be delivered. If you are starting a business in South Carolina or changing your Registered Agent, you will need to update this address. Changing your Registered Agent is one of the reasons why you need to change your South Carolina LLC address because a Registered Agent should have a primary address in the state your LLC is registered. 

An example is having a Foreign LLC in South Carolina; a Registered Agent should have the same address as your registered Foreign LLC.

Principal Place of Business Address

This is where your South Carolina business operates. If you are moving your business, expanding to multiple locations, or changing your business structure, you must update this address. 

In some cases, you may need to update both addresses. Be sure to evaluate your specific situation to determine which addresses need to be updated.

Step 2: Update Your Registered Office Address

If you need to change your registered office address in South Carolina, you will likely need to file an address change form with the South Carolina Secretary of State. Below is an outline of the steps:

Obtain the Appropriate Form

Visit the South Carolina Secretary of State‘s website to download the necessary form for changing your South Carolina registered office address. This form may be called “South Carolina Statement of Change of Registered Office” or something similar.

For you to update the registered office address, you need to have the following;

1. Your South Carolina LLC must obtain a Certificate of Existence from the South Carolina Secretary of State, confirming that it has complied with all filing and tax obligations in the state of South Carolina.

2. Your South Carolina LLC must conduct a name search on South Carolina Secretary of State Business Filings Search to ensure that its desired name is available for use in the state of South Carolina. However, 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 South Carolina Secretary of State to keep the name. 

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 South Carolina DBA (doing business as). 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 every five years, which costs $10.

3. Your South Carolina LLC should prepare and file the Articles of Domestication with the South Carolina Secretary of State, providing information about its existing South Carolina LLC, its desired South Carolina LLC name, and its new registered office address in South Carolina.

4. Your South Carolina LLC has designated a Registered Agent with a physical address in South Carolina and is available during regular business hours to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC.

In South Carolina, your Registered Agent must:

  • Be a resident of South Carolina or a business entity authorized to do business in South Carolina
  • Have a physical address in South Carolina (P.O. boxes are not acceptable)

Choosing a reliable and responsible Registered Agent is essential, as failure to receive and respond to legal documents can seriously affect your business. 

You can serve as your own Registered Agent or appoint a friend, family member or hire the Best South Carolina Registered Agent Services.

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Complete the Form

Carefully fill out the form, providing all required information, including your South Carolina LLC’s name, current registered office address, and new registered office address. You may also be required to provide the name and address of your new Registered Agent if you are changing agents.

Submit the Form

Once the form is completed, please submit it to the South Carolina Secretary of State, along with any required filing fees. You can usually submit your form online, by mail, or in person.

The fees in South Carolina for this process are as follows:

  • Articles of Domestication: The filing fee for Articles of Domestication with the South Carolina Secretary of State is $110.00 for conversion.
  • Dissolution of South Carolina LLC: The fee for filing the South Carolina Articles of Dissolution with the South Carolina Secretary of State is $50.

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Confirm the Change

After submitting your form and other required documents, you should receive a confirmation from the South Carolina Secretary of State that your address change has been processed. Keep this confirmation as proof that you have updated your registered office address.

Step 3: Update Your Principal Place of Business Address

If you need to change your South Carolina LLC’s principal place of business address in South Carolina, you may need to update your business license or other permits, depending on your specific situation. Here are some general steps to follow:

  • Contact Local Agencies: Contact the South Carolina Secretary of State that issued your business licenses or permits to determine their specific requirements for changing your address. Depending on your business type and location, this may include city, county, or state agencies.
  • Keep Records: Retain copies of any updated South Carolina licenses, permits, or other documents as proof that you have changed your principal place of business address. This may be necessary for future filings, audits, or compliance requirements.
  • Update your Licenses and Permits: Follow the instructions provided by the South Carolina Secretary of State to update your business licenses and permits with your new principal place of business address. 

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Step 4: Notify the IRS of Your Address Change

In addition to updating your South Carolina LLC’s address with the South Carolina Secretary of State and local agencies, you should also notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of your address change. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Complete Form 8822-B: Download and complete IRS Form 8822-B, “Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business.” This form informs the IRS of your LLC’s new address.
  • Mail the Form: Mail the completed Form 8822-B to the IRS at the address specified in the form’s instructions. There is no filing fee associated with this form.
  • Update your EIN: If your South Carolina LLC has an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you should also update the address associated with your EIN by contacting the IRS via phone, mail, or fax. The specific contact information and instructions can be found on the IRS website.

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Step 5: Inform Other Relevant Parties of Your Address Change

To ensure that your South Carolina LLC remains in good standing and that you continue to receive important correspondence, you should also inform the following parties of your address change:

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Vendors and suppliers
  • Customers and clients
  • Utility providers
  • South Carolina Insurance companies
  • Relevant industry associations or organizations

Update the Articles of Organization

When changing the address of your LLC in South Carolina, one of the pertinent requirements could be updating your Articles of Organization, which is the document initially filed to establish your business entity officially.

The Articles of Organization includes various pieces of information about the LLC, such as its name, primary place of business, and Registered Agent information. When you change the business address, it’s critical to ensure that the details on the Articles of Organization reflect this modification.

The process usually involves the following steps:

  1. Obtain the Proper Form: The LLC must get the right form to amend the Articles of Organization in South Carolina. This information is typically available on the state’s Secretary of State website or other relevant state agencies.
  2. Complete the Form: Fill out the form according to the instructions provided.
  3. Submit and Pay Fees: Once the form is completed, submit it to the South Carolina Secretary of State, along with any necessary filing fees. The fee for the amendment is $110.
  4. Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the amendment or change of address form for the company’s records.

Remember that the process and requirements for changing an LLC address may vary based on the regulations in South Carolina, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or refer to the South Carolina Secretary of State website for accurate information.

Advantages of Changing South Carolina LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in South Carolina could bring several advantages, depending on the specific circumstances and reasons behind the move:

  • Business Growth and Expansion: If the change of address is due to the need for more space, the LLC is growing and expanding, which is a positive outcome.
  • Access to Resources: Moving to a new location could provide better access to essential resources, such as proximity to suppliers, customers, or a skilled labor pool, enhancing the company’s operation and potential profitability.
  • Strategic Benefits: The LLC might move to an advantageous business environment with strategic benefits such as a more favorable regulatory climate, lower taxes, or business-friendly policies.
  • Improved Professional Image: Moving to a prestigious business district or a well-known commercial area could enhance the professional image of the LLC and make it more attractive to clients or investors.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Changing the address could lower costs if the new location has cheaper rent, utility, or other operational expenses.
  • Improved Work Environment: A new address could mean a better work environment for employees, boosting morale, productivity, and, ultimately, the bottom line.
  • Enhanced Privacy: If an LLC owner uses a home address as the registered address, moving to a new, separate business address can help maintain privacy and separate personal life from business matters.

While these potential benefits can be compelling, it’s important to remember that changing an LLC’s address also involves informing the relevant government bodies in South Carolina, updating business contacts, and possibly revising marketing materials. LLC owners should factor these considerations into their decision-making process.

Can Form 882-B Be Used to Change the LLC Name? 

Form 8822-B, titled “Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business,” informs the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of an address change for a business or a change in the responsible party. It cannot be used to change the name of an LLC.

To change the name of South Carolina LLC, you must follow the appropriate process in the state where your LLC is registered. This typically involves filing Articles of Amendment or a similar document with the South Carolina Secretary of State. After the name change has been approved at the state level, you should inform the IRS by following the instructions on your tax return or by sending a signed letter to the IRS office where you filed your return.

FAQs

What do I need to do to change my LLC address in South Carolina?
To change your LLC address in South Carolina, you will need to file the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State’s Office.
How long will it take for the address change to go into effect?
It typically takes about 3-5 business days for address changes to go into effect with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
Is there a fee to change my LLC’s address in South Carolina?
Yes, there is a filing fee to change your LLC’s address in South Carolina, which is currently $10.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC address online?
Yes, you can change your South Carolina LLC address online through the Secretary of State’s website.
Is a new South Carolina LLC operating agreement required when changing the LLC address?
No, a new operating agreement is not required when changing your LLC’s address in South Carolina.
Do I need to notify any other agencies or entities when changing my South Carolina LLC address?
You may need to update your LLC’s address with your registered agent and any other important entities such as banks and insurance providers.
What types of entities should I notify when changing my LLC’s South Carolina address?
Important entities to notify when changing your LLC’s South Carolina address may include your registered agent, bank, and insurance providers.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC address to an out-of-state address?
Yes, you can change your South Carolina LLC address to an out-of-state address, but you may need to file additional paperwork with the Secretary of State’s Office.
Will my LLC’s tax ID number change when I change its South Carolina address?
No, your LLC’s tax ID number will not change when you change its South Carolina address.
Are there any residency or citizenship requirements to change my LLC address in South Carolina?
No, there are no residency or citizenship requirements to change your LLC address in South Carolina.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s name at the same time as its address?
Yes, you can change your South Carolina LLC’s name at the same time as its address, but you will need to file additional paperwork.
Do I need to hire a lawyer to change my LLC’s address in South Carolina?
No, you do not need to hire a lawyer to change your LLC’s address in South Carolina, but you may want to consult with one if you have any questions or concerns.
What happens if I do not change my LLC’s address with the South Carolina Secretary of State?
If you do not change your LLC’s address with the South Carolina Secretary of State, you may miss important legal notices and information regarding your LLC.
Can I change my LLC’s South Carolina address if there are legal disputes or judgments against it?
It may be more difficult to change your LLC’s South Carolina address if there are legal disputes or judgments against it, but it is still possible.
Will changing my LLC’s address affect my liability protection in South Carolina?
No, changing your LLC’s address should not affect its liability protection in South Carolina.
How do I contact the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office to change my LLC address?
You can contact the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office by phone, email, or online through their website.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s address if it is currently in the process of being dissolved?
No, you cannot change your South Carolina LLC’s address if it is currently in the process of being dissolved.
Is there a specific form I need to fill out to change my South Carolina LLC address?
Yes, you will need to fill out the Statement of Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form to change your LLC address.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s address if it is delinquent on its annual report filings?
No, you cannot change your South Carolina LLC’s address if it is delinquent on its annual report filings.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s address to a PO box?
Yes, you can change your South Carolina LLC’s address to a PO box, but you will still need to provide a physical street address as well.
Is there a deadline to change my South Carolina LLC’s address?
No, there is not a specific deadline to change your South Carolina LLC’s address, but it is important to do so as soon as possible.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s address if it owes taxes?
Yes, you can change your South Carolina LLC’s address if it owes taxes, but you may need to work with the South Carolina Department of Revenue to resolve any outstanding tax issues.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s address if it is in bankruptcy?
It may be more difficult to change your South Carolina LLC’s address if it is in bankruptcy, but it is still possible.
Do I need to have a physical location in South Carolina to change my LLC’s address to that state?
No, you do not need to have a physical location in South Carolina to change your LLC’s address to that state.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s address if it is currently suspended?
No, you cannot change your South Carolina LLC’s address if it is currently suspended.
Will changing my South Carolina LLC’s address affect its annual report filing?
Yes, you will need to update your LLC’s address on its annual report filing after the address change goes into effect.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC’s address to a non-US address?
Yes, you can change your South Carolina LLC’s address to a non-US address if you provide all necessary information and filings.
Will my registered agent change when I change my LLC’s address in South Carolina?
Your registered agent may or may not change when you change your LLC’s address in South Carolina, depending on your circumstances.
What is the turnaround time for processing a South Carolina LLC address change filing?
The turnaround time for processing a South Carolina LLC address change filing is usually 3-5 business days.
How do you change the address of an LLC in South Carolina?
Fill out and file an amendment form with the South Carolina Department of Revenue.
What is an LLC?
An LLC, or limited liability company, is a type of business structure that combines the liability protection of a corporation with the taxation benefits of a partnership.
Can you change the address of an LLC online?
Yes, you can file for the change of address of your LLC online on the Secretary of State’s website.
What documents are required to change the address of an LLC in South Carolina?
You will need to file an amendment of Articles of Organization form with the South Carolina Secretary of State, providing both your old and new address details.
Can an LLC have more than one address in South Carolina?
Yes, an LLC can have multiple addresses in South Carolina if the need arises, such as for a branch office in a different city, etc.
How long does it take to change the address of an LLC in South Carolina?
It takes 7-10 days for the South Carolina Secretary of State office to process the amendment form and update the address details of your LLC.
Is there a fee for changing your LLC address in South Carolina?
Yes, the filing fee for an amendment form for changing the address of an LLC in South Carolina is $10.
Can I change the address of my South Carolina LLC while the business is inactive?
Yes, you can still change the address of your LLC in South Carolina while it is inactive.
Can a non-US citizen change the address of their LLC in South Carolina?
Yes, non-US citizens can change the address of their LLC in South Carolina.
How do I know if my LLC address change has been successfully processed?
You will typically receive a confirmation number or email from the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office once your LLC address change has been successfully processed.
Can I cancel my application to change the address of my LLC in South Carolina?
No, you cannot cancel your application to change the address of your LLC once it has been filed with the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office.
Can I change the address of my South Carolina LLC if I have not yet received my EIN?
Yes, you can still change the address of your South Carolina LLC if you have not yet received your EIN.
What is the deadline for changing my LLC address in South Carolina?
You can change the address of your LLC in South Carolina at any time.
Can my LLC filing status affect changing the address of my LLC in South Carolina?
No, your LLC filing status does not affect changing the address of your LLC in South Carolina.
What documents accompany the amendment form for address change of LLC in South Carolina?
It’s recommended that you keep copies of all supporting paperwork with your amendment form for address change to verify the up-to-date LLC details with ease.
What should the registered agent do when the LLC moves its address in South Carolina?
The registered agent must be informed about the change of address of an LLC located in South Carolina.
When should I change the address of my LLC in South Carolina?
Change your address on the LLC records maintained by the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office whenever your South Carolina LLC changes its physical location.
Which department of the government has authority to change the address of an LLC located in South Carolina?
The South Carolina Secretary of State’s office Authority handles all changes of LLC address requests made in the state of South Carolina.
Can I designate a manager to change my South Carolina LLC address on my behalf?
yes, you can legally authorize another person or professional to file the amendment for the address change of your South Carolina LLC.
Is changing the address of an LLC in South Carolina easy?
Yes, reflecting the change in the LLC record through an official amendment is quite easy.
What happens to my South Carolina LLC if I cannot change my LLC address?
To maintain current active operations, it is crucial to keep government records updated with correct address details along with all necessary legal papers and documents.
Is it mandatory to publicly declare address change of LLC situated in South Carolina?
Yes, officially filing an amendment form is mandatory as it is required by state law.
How frequently can I change my South Carolina LLC address?
You can change your LLC address in South Carolina as often as necessary based on your business needs.
Is it legal to have my South Carolina LLC mailing address and physical address at two different locations?
Yes, it is legal to have different mailing and physical addresses for your LLC located in South Carolina.
Can I change my South Carolina LLC address by mailing an amendment form?
Yes, you can either mail or file an amendment form for an LLC address change in South Carolina through an independent agent.
Will I receive new Certificate of Authority documents after updating the LLC address in South Carolina?
No, updates of Certificate of Authority document is not issued when changing an LLC address in South Carolina.
Is changing my South Carolina LLC mailing address wise?
yes, Home-based entrepreneurs sort their expectations out without losing any confidentiality at risk by updating newly addressed despite living in the previous city.
Can an independent contractor apply for changing address of LLC operating in South Carolina done on behalf of president or employees?
Non-assuming legal entry names shall have the capability to apply LLC address changing by working independently.

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Conclusion

Changing your LLC’s address in South Carolina can be relatively simple if you follow the above steps. By updating your registered office and principal place of business addresses, notifying the IRS, and informing other relevant parties, you can ensure that your LLC remains compliant with South Carolina regulations and continues to operate smoothly.

Remember to keep records of all address changes and any updated licenses, permits, or other documents, as these may be necessary for future filings, audits, or other compliance requirements. And as always, consult with a legal or business professional if you have any questions or concerns about your situation.

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