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

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Change Tennessee Business Name

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

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 Tennessee

Before Changing Your Business Name in Tennessee

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

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

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How to Change a Business Name in Tennessee

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

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

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee. 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 varies by county.

In Tennessee, 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 4 months. You must file a name reservation application with the Tennessee Secretary of State to keep the name. 

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Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Amended Certificate of Authority

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

When registering a new business name with the Tennessee 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 Certificate of Authority

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Tennessee Secretary of State’s office to change your business name officially. This process typically involves filing an amendment to your company’s Charter for Profit Corporation 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee regulations. In Tennessee, amendment cost is $20.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Tennessee Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Tennessee’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Amended Certificate of Authority

Additional considerations in filing the Amended Certificate of Authority in Tennessee.

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 Tennessee business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee’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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee (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 Tennessee?
You must file an Amendment to Articles of Incorporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State’s office.
What is the fee to change a business name in Tennessee?
The filing fee for changing a business name in Tennessee is $20.
Do I need to register my new business name for taxes in Tennessee?
Yes, if you change your business name, you will need to register the new name with the Tennessee Department of Revenue for tax purposes.
Does changing the name of my business affect my LLC operating agreement in Tennessee?
Yes, if you have an LLC operating agreement, you will need to amend it to reflect the new business name.
Can I change the name of my business in Tennessee if it has outstanding debts or judgments?
Yes, but if there are outstanding debts or judgments against your business, you may need to notify your creditors of the name change.
How long does it take to change a business name in Tennessee?
Processing times vary, but it typically takes about 3-5 business days to change a business name in Tennessee.
Can I change my business name online in Tennessee?
Yes, you can file an Amendment to Articles of Incorporation online through the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website.
Does my business name have to be unique in Tennessee?
Yes, your business name must be unique and not already in use by another business in Tennessee.
Can I change the structure of my business when changing the name in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change the structure of your business (such as from a sole proprietorship to an LLC) when changing the name, but it will require additional filings.
Do I need a lawyer to change my business name in Tennessee?
No, you can file the necessary paperwork yourself, but it’s recommended to consult with an attorney to ensure you complete all necessary steps correctly.
Can I change my business name in Tennessee without notifying my customers?
No, you need to inform your customers of the name change and update any relevant business materials (such as letterheads, business cards, etc.).
Do I need to notify the Tennessee Secretary of State of my business name change for my DBA?
Yes, you will need to file a new Application for Registration of Assumed Name for your DBA reflecting the new business name.
Can I change the name of my business if I am in the middle of a legal dispute in Tennessee?
It’s best to consult with an attorney in this situation because changing the name of your business may affect any legal action currently pending.
Can I change my business name if I am in the process of selling my business in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change your business name during the process of selling your business, but it’s recommended to inform potential buyers of the name change.
Do I need to change my employer identification number (EIN) when changing my business name in Tennessee?
No, you don’t need to change your EIN when changing your business name, but you will need to notify the IRS and update your tax filings.
Can I change my business name if it is listed as a registered trademark in Tennessee?
It’s recommended to consult with a trademark attorney to avoid any potential legal conflicts when changing your business name if it’s a registered trademark.
Can I request a name reservation before changing my business name in Tennessee?
Yes, you can submit a Name Reservation Request to the Tennessee Secretary of State to temporarily reserve a new business name for 120 days.
Do I need to change my state business license when changing my business name in Tennessee?
Yes, you will need to update your state business license to reflect the new business name.
Can I trademark my new business name after changing it in Tennessee?
Yes, you can apply for a trademark for your new business name through the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Is there a deadline to change my business name in Tennessee?
No, there is no deadline to change your business name in Tennessee, but it’s recommended to complete the name change as soon as possible.
Can I change my business name to anything in Tennessee?
No, Tennessee law prohibits business names that are deemed offensive, misleading, or could potentially cause harm to the public.
Can I change my business name multiple times in Tennessee?
Yes, but multiple name changes may create confusion for customers and clients.
What happens if I don’t update my business name in Tennessee?
Failure to update your business name can result in legal and financial consequences, such as fines or legal disputes.
Do I need to update my business name on all of my social media accounts when changing it in Tennessee?
Yes, it’s recommended to update your business name on all of your social media accounts to ensure consistency across platforms.
Can I change the spelling of my business name when changing it in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change the spelling of your business name, but it may require additional filings and updates to legal documents.
Can changing my business name affect my credit rating in Tennessee?
No, changing your business name should not affect your credit rating unless it involves a significant change in your business structure or tax status.
Can I change my business name without changing the business structure in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change your business name without changing the business structure, but it may still require additional filings and updates.
What happens to my old business name after I change it in Tennessee?
You should no longer use the old business name after changing it in Tennessee. It may be available for use by another business.
What is the process for changing a business name in Tennessee?
The first step is to check whether the name you want is available, and then file a Name Reservation with the Tennessee Secretary of State. Once the reservation is approved, you need to file Articles of Amendment.
Do I need to complete any forms when changing my business name in Tennessee?
Yes, you need to file the Tennessee Articles of Amendment form, which can be downloaded from the Secretary of State’s website.
What are the filing fees for changing a business name in Tennessee?
The fee for a Name Reservation is $20, and the fee for filing Articles of Amendment is $20.
Can I change my business name and keep the same EIN in Tennessee?
Yes, you can keep your EIN if you change your business name.
Is there a deadline for changing my business name in Tennessee?
No, there is no deadline for changing your business name in Tennessee.
Can I change the type of my business when changing my name in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change the type of your business when changing your name in Tennessee.
How do I notify customers and vendors about my business name change in Tennessee?
You should send out an announcement to your customers and vendors as soon as possible, and update your website, social media, and any marketing materials.
Do I need to obtain new licenses and permits when changing my business name in Tennessee?
It depends on what type of business license and permits you currently hold. You should check with the issuing agency to see what is required.
Can I expedite the processing of my name change in Tennessee?
Yes, you can file an expedited request for the Name Reservation and Articles of Amendment, for an additional fee.
Can I change my name to anything in Tennessee?
No, your business name can’t be misleading, confusing or contain forbidden terms, among other constraints.
Can someone else trademark my old business name in Tennessee once I change it?
It’s possible, yes. You should check the status of your trademark before changing your business name.
What happens to my contracts if I change my business name in Tennessee?
If you’re changing your business name but keeping the same tax identification number, you don’t have to update contracts with clients or professionals who work with you.
How do I change my name with the IRS in Tennessee?
To change your legal name with the IRS, you need to complete that change on your annual tax return, such as Form 1065 for partnerships & LLCs or Form 1120 for federal income tax.
Does a legal name change affect my account with the Tennessee Department of Revenue?
Yes. Make sure you report the name change to the Tennessee Department of Revenue. This may also require reapplying for your sales tax permit.
Can I use my previous business name in Tennessee if I change it again later?
Yes, you can use your previously business name again after changing it in Tennessee.
What happens if my new business name is already taken in Tennessee?
You will have to choose another name that’s available.
Can I change my business name to be very similar to another company’s name in Tennessee?
No, you cannot pick a similar name that’s already registered with the Tennessee SOS.
Will changing my business impact my taxes in Tennessee?
No, changing your business name does not impact your Tennessee business taxes.
Do I need new business identification number when changing my business name in Tennessee?
No, you can keep the same business identification number when changing your business name in Tennessee.
Can I change my email or domain name to match my new business name in Tennessee?
Yes, it is possible to change your email and domain name to match your new business name in Tennessee.
Can I trademark my new business name in Tennessee?
Yes, it is possible to seek a trademark registration for your new business name in Tennessee.
Can I change my business name on my business bank account in Tennessee?
Yes, you should have no problem changing your business name on your business bank account by providing documentation proving the change.
Can I change my business name on pending loans in Tennessee?
Yes, you will need to contact your lender directly to discuss changing the business name on pending loans in Tennessee.
Can I receive forward mail from my old name to my new name in Tennessee?
Yes, with proper documentation, it is possible to receive forward mail from your old name to your new name in Tennessee.
Can I change my business name if my business is in the process of being sold in Tennessee?
It is best to wait until the sale is complete before changing your business name. Discuss the matter with potential buyers and finalize name change thereafter.
Can I change my sole proprietorship business name without changing the ownership structure in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change your sole proprietorship business name without changing the ownership structure in Tennessee.
Do I need to change my business license when changing my business name in Tennessee?
Yes, if your business license has your old name on it you will probably need to change it.
How can I make sure the change of my business name in Tennessee is successful?
You should monitor your business closely after changing its name, make sure he new name is used in external communications, updated contracts & partnership agreements, and all documents signed thereafter.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Tennessee 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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