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

by
Change Texas Business Name

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

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 Texas

Before Changing Your Business Name in Texas

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

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

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

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

If your desired name is already in use or too similar to an existing business name in Texas, 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 Texas. 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 ten years, which costs varies by county.

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

When registering a new business name with the Texas 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 Texas Secretary of State’s office to change your business name officially. This process typically involves filing an amendment to your company’s Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation 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 Texas 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 Texas regulations. In Texas, amendment cost is $25.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Texas Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Texas’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Certificate of Amendment

Additional considerations in filing the Certificate of Amendment in Texas.

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 Texas business license and paying an application fee ranging from $50 – $300.
  • Notify the Texas Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas’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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas (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 Texas?
You can change your business name in Texas by filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to change a business name in Texas?
It costs $150 to file a Certificate of Amendment to change a business name in Texas.
Can I change my business name myself in Texas?
Yes, you can change your business name yourself by filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Texas Secretary of State.
How long does it take to change a business name in Texas?
It typically takes up to 7-10 business days to process a Certificate of Amendment and officially change your business name in Texas.
Do I need a lawyer to change my business name in Texas?
No, you do not need a lawyer to change your business name in Texas. You can file the necessary paperwork yourself.
Do I need to get a new EIN when I change my business name in Texas?
No, you do not need to get a new EIN (Employer Identification Number) when you change your business name in Texas.
What is an assumed name certificate in Texas?
An assumed name certificate in Texas is a document that allows an individual or business to legally operate under a name other than their legal name.
Do I need an assumed name certificate to change my business name in Texas?
Yes, you will need an assumed name certificate to legally use your new business name in Texas.
How do I get an assumed name certificate in Texas?
You can obtain an assumed name certificate in Texas by filing a form with the County Clerk’s office in the county where your business is located.
How much does it cost to file an assumed name certificate in Texas?
The cost for filing an assumed name certificate in Texas varies by county. You will need to contact your local County Clerk’s office for specific pricing.
Do I need to renew my assumed name certificate in Texas?
Yes, you will need to renew your assumed name certificate in Texas every 10 years.
Can I change my business name and get a DBA (Doing Business As) at the same time in Texas?
Yes, you can change your business name and file for a DBA (Doing Business As) at the same time in Texas.
Do I need to notify the IRS when I change my business name in Texas?
No, you do not need to notify the IRS when you change your business name in Texas.
Do I need to notify the Texas Comptroller when I change my business name?
Yes, you will need to update your business information with the Texas Comptroller’s office when you change your business name in Texas.
Can I reserve my new business name in Texas before filing the Certificate of Amendment?
No, you cannot reserve your new business name in Texas before filing the Certificate of Amendment.
Will I need to update my business licenses and permits when I change my business name in Texas?
Yes, you will need to update your business licenses and permits when you change your business name in Texas.
What happens if I don’t change my business name on my business licenses and permits in Texas?
Failure to update your business name on your business licenses and permits in Texas could result in fines, penalties, or an inability to do business until the change has been made.
Can I change my business name and keep my existing website and social media pages in Texas?
Yes, you can change your business name and keep your existing website and social media pages in Texas.
How do I update my website with my new business name in Texas?
You will need to update your website’s domain name and any references to your old business name throughout the site.
How do I update my social media pages with my new business name in Texas?
You will need to change your social media page usernames and update any references to your old business name in your profile information.
Will I need to update my business bank accounts and credit cards when I change my company name in Texas?
Yes, you will need to update your business bank accounts and credit cards when you change your company name in Texas.
Do I need to inform vendors and suppliers of my name change in Texas?
Yes, you will need to inform vendors and suppliers of your name change in Texas to ensure business continuity.
Will my taxes be affected when I change my business name in Texas?
No, your taxes should not be affected when you change your business name in Texas.
Can I change my business name back to the original name in Texas?
Yes, you can change your business name back to the original name in Texas if desired.
What documents do I need to file to change my business name in Texas?
You will need to file a Certificate of Amendment with the Texas Secretary of State to change your business name in Texas.
Can I have a shortened version of my business name in Texas?
Yes, you can use a shortened version of your business name in Texas as long as it is not misleading to consumers.
Can I change my business name if I have a pending lawsuit in Texas?
It depends on the circumstances. You should consult with a lawyer before attempting to change your business name if you have a pending lawsuit in Texas.
Does a change of business name affect my business structure in Texas?
No, a change of business name should not affect your business structure in Texas.
How long does it take for my business name change to be approved in Texas?
It typically takes 7-10 business days for the Texas Secretary of State’s office to process a Certificate of Amendment.
Do I need to notify other state agencies when changing my Texas business name?
Yes, you will likely need to update your business name with the Texas Comptroller, Texas Workforce Commission, and any other state agencies that you regularly do business with.
Can I change my Texas business name online?
Yes, you can file a Certificate of Amendment online through the Texas Secretary of State’s website.
Is there a deadline for changing my Texas business name?
No, there is no deadline for changing your Texas business name.
Will I need to register my new Texas business name as a trademark?
Yes, if you want to protect your new business name, you should register it as a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Can I change my Texas business name to anything I want?
Yes, as long as the name is available and does not violate any state or federal laws.
What happens if someone else in Texas has the same business name as me after I change my name?
You may be asked to change your business name again if someone else already has that name registered.
Do I need to update my Texas business name on my website and other advertising materials?
Yes, to avoid confusion, you should update your business name on all advertising and marketing materials.
Can I change the legal structure of my Texas business when I change my name?
Yes, you may include legal structure changes in the same Certificate of Amendment filing.
Will I need to update my Texas business name on my business license?
Yes, you will need to update your business license with your new name.
Can I change my Texas business name if I have outstanding debts?
Yes, but you will still be responsible for any outstanding debts.
Will my EIN number change when I change my Texas business name?
No, your EIN number will remain the same.
Can I change my Texas business name if I am in the middle of a lawsuit?
It is generally not advisable to change your business name in the middle of a lawsuit.
Can I change my Texas business name multiple times?
Yes, as long as you file a Certificate of Amendment and pay the required fee each time.
Can I change my Texas business name to a name that is already taken in another state?
You should avoid using a name that has already been registered in another state to avoid potential legal issues.
Do all officers and directors need to sign the Certificate of Amendment for a Texas business name change?
No, only one officer or director needs to sign the Certificate of Amendment.
Can I change the spelling of my Texas business name?
Yes, you can change the spelling of your business name as long as it is available and approved by the Texas Secretary of State.
Will I need to update my Texas business name on my tax filings?
Yes, you will need to update your business name on all tax filings.
Can changing my name help me rebrand my Texas business?
Yes, changing your name can be a good opportunity to rebrand your business and update your marketing.
Will changing my Texas business name affect my business credit score?
No, but you will need to update your business name on all credit reporting and financial records.
Do I need to update my Texas business name on my contracts and other legal documents?
Yes, to avoid confusion, you should update your business name on all contracts and legal documents.
Can my Texas business name include special characters or diacritical marks?
Yes, you can include special characters or diacritical marks as long as they are available and approved by the Texas Secretary of State.
Will I need to update my Texas business name on my business bank account?
Yes, you will need to update your business name on all financial accounts.
Can I change my Texas business name if I am a sole proprietor?
Yes, but if you have filed a DBA with your county, you will need to file a new DBA with your new name.
Do I need to update my Texas business name with my insurance provider?
Yes, you should update your business name on all insurance policies.
What should I do if I receive legal notices addressed to my old Texas business name?
You should notify the court or agency that your business name has changed.

Also Read

Conclusion

Changing your business name in Texas 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