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

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Change Wyoming Business Name

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

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 Wyoming

Before Changing Your Business Name in Wyoming

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

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

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How to Change a Business Name in Wyoming

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

Changing your company name in Wyoming is relatively easy. Before we go into the steps, you should know that some rules must be followed when naming a business in Wyoming. 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming. 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming is essential. You must conduct a name search through the Wyoming 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 Wyoming, 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 Wyoming. 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 $100.

In Wyoming, 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 Wyoming Secretary of State to keep the name. 

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Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Amendment to Articles of Organization

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

When registering a new business name with the Wyoming 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 Amendment to Articles of Organization

Once you’ve confirmed that your new business name is available, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Wyoming Secretary of State’s office to change your business name officially. This process typically involves filing an amendment to your company’s Articles 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming regulations. In Wyoming, amendment cost is $60.00.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Wyoming Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Wyoming’s filing options.

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

Things to do After Filing the Amendment to Articles of Organization

Additional considerations in filing the Amendment to Articles of Organization in Wyoming.

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 Wyoming business license and paying an application fee ranging from $70 – $500.
  • Notify the Wyoming Department of Labor and Workforce Development: If your business has employees, you will need to notify the Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming’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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming (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 Wyoming?
To change your business name in Wyoming, you must file Articles of Amendment with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
What is the fee for changing a business name in Wyoming?
The fee to change a business name in Wyoming is $50.
Can I change my business name online in Wyoming?
Yes, you can file the form to change your business name online in Wyoming through the Wyoming Secretary of State’s website.
Can I change the name of my LLC in Wyoming?
Yes, you can change the name of your LLC in Wyoming by filing Articles of Amendment with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
How long does it take to change a business name in Wyoming?
Processing time varies, but typically it takes 2 to 4 business days to change a business name in Wyoming.
Does changing a business name affect my Wyoming business license?
Yes, you will need to update your Wyoming business license to reflect your new business name.
Does changing a business name affect my Wyoming Tax ID number?
No, changing your business name does not affect your Wyoming Tax ID number.
Do I have to update my Wyoming business registration when changing my business name?
Yes, the Wyoming Secretary of State requires you to update your business registration when changing your business name.
Can I change the name of my Wyoming corporation?
Yes, you can change the name of your Wyoming corporation by filing Articles of Amendment with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
How can I check the availability of a new business name in Wyoming?
You can check the availability of a new business name in Wyoming by searching the Wyoming Secretary of State’s business database.
Can I reserve a new business name in Wyoming before changing my existing business name?
Yes, you can reserve a new business name in Wyoming for up to 120 days before changing your existing business name.
What happens if the Wyoming Secretary of State rejects my business name change request?
If the Wyoming Secretary of State rejects your business name change request, you will need to correct the deficiency and resubmit the necessary paperwork.
Do I need to update my Wyoming business name on all of my business documents?
Yes, you will need to update your Wyoming business name on all of your business documents, such as contracts, invoices, and marketing materials.
Can I change my business structure along with my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, you can change your business structure along with your business name in Wyoming by filing the appropriate paperwork with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
What do I need to include in my Articles of Amendment when changing my Wyoming business name?
When changing your Wyoming business name, you will need to include the old and new business names, the date of the amendment, and a statement acknowledging that you have the authority to make the change.
Do I need to hire a lawyer to change my business name in Wyoming?
No, you do not need to hire a lawyer to change your business name in Wyoming. You can file the necessary paperwork yourself.
Can I create a DBA when changing my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, you can create a DBA when changing your business name in Wyoming by adding a new trade name in your Articles of Amendment.
Does changing my business name affect my Wyoming annual report?
Yes, you will need to update your Wyoming annual report to reflect your new business name.
Can I change my Wyoming business name to an already existing name?
No, you cannot change your Wyoming business name to an already existing name.
Do I need to notify my creditors when changing my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, you should notify your creditors when changing your business name in Wyoming to avoid any confusion.
Do I need to notify my customers when changing my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, you should notify your customers when changing your business name in Wyoming.
How do I notify the IRS of my business name change in Wyoming?
You can notify the IRS of your business name change in Wyoming by updating your business records on their website.
Is my new business name in Wyoming automatically protected by trademark law?
No, your new business name in Wyoming is not automatically protected by trademark law. You will need to apply for trademark protection separately.
Can I change my Wyoming business name without changing my company structure?
Yes, you can change your Wyoming business name without changing your company structure.
How do I update my Wyoming business name on my LLC operating agreement?
You will need to file an amendment to your LLC operating agreement to update your Wyoming business name.
Can I change my Wyoming business name if I have a pending lawsuit?
Yes, you can change your Wyoming business name even if you have a pending lawsuit.
Will I receive a new business license when I change my business name in Wyoming?
No, you will not receive a new business license when you change your business name in Wyoming. You will only receive a new registration certificate.
Can I file my Articles of Amendment in person in Wyoming?
Yes, you can file your Articles of Amendment in person at the Wyoming Secretary of State’s office in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Can I change my Wyoming business name if I’m moving to a new state?
Yes, you can change your Wyoming business name if you’re moving to a new state, but you will need to comply with the business registration requirements in the new state.
What are the steps to change a business name in Wyoming?
To change your business name in Wyoming, you will need to file an Amendment of Articles with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
Is it possible to change a business name in Wyoming online?
Yes, you can file an Amendment of Articles online through the Wyoming Secretary of State’s website.
How much does it cost to change a business name in Wyoming?
The fee to file an Amendment of Articles with the Wyoming Secretary of State is $50.
Do I need to obtain a new EIN when I change my business name in Wyoming?
No, you do not need to obtain a new EIN when you change your business name in Wyoming. Your EIN will remain the same.
Can I change the business name for multiple entities at once in Wyoming?
Yes, if you own multiple entities in Wyoming, you can file a single Amendment of Articles to change the business names for all of them.
Can I reserve a new business name in Wyoming before changing it officially?
Yes, the Wyoming Secretary of State’s office allows you to reserve a new business name for up to 120 days before officially changing it.
Will I need to update my business licenses and permits after changing my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, you will need to update your business licenses and permits with the appropriate state and local agencies after changing your business name in Wyoming.
What if my business is a foreign entity registered in Wyoming? Can I still change its name?
Yes, foreign entities registered in Wyoming are also able to file an Amendment of Articles to change their business name.
Will changing my business name affect my state and federal taxes in Wyoming?
No, changing your business name in Wyoming will not affect your state or federal tax obligations. You will need to report your business name change on your tax returns.
Can I change my business entity type in Wyoming at the same time I change my business name?
Yes, you can change your business entity type at the same time you change your business name by filing an Amendment of Articles with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
If I change my business name, will I need to reapply for any DBAs?
Yes, if you use a DBA with your previous business name, you will need to reapply for a new DBA with your new business name in Wyoming.
What happens if someone else is already using the business name I want to change to in Wyoming?
If the business name you wish to change to is already in use, you will need to choose a different name or obtain written consent from the other business to use the same name.
Can I change my business name in Wyoming if I have outstanding debts or obligations?
Yes, you can change your business name in Wyoming even if you have outstanding debts or obligations. however, you are still responsible for paying off any existing debts and obligations.
Do I need to update my employee records after changing my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, you will need to update your employee records to reflect your new business name in Wyoming.
If I need help changing my business name in Wyoming, who can I contact?
You can contact the Wyoming Secretary of State’s office for assistance with changing your business name in Wyoming.
Can I change my business name in Wyoming if my business is currently inactive?
Yes, you can change your business name in Wyoming even if your business is currently inactive. However, you will need to file an Annual Report and pay any associated fees before making any changes.
Can I change the name of my LLC in Wyoming to a personal name?
Yes, you can change your LLC name in Wyoming to a personal name if the name is available and compliant with state regulations.
Do I need to notify my customers and vendors after changing my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, it’s a good idea to notify your customers and vendors of your new business name in Wyoming to avoid confusion and ensure continued relationships.
What if I change my business name and want to change it back in Wyoming?
If you change your business name in Wyoming and want to change it back, you will need to file another Amendment of Articles.
What kinds of words or phrases are not allowed in business names in Wyoming?
Wyoming has specific regulations on allowed words and phrases in business names, including profanity, sought to deceive, or contain words that impose a risk of perceived danger to the public.
Can I change my business name to a name that is already trademarked in Wyoming?
No, you cannot use a business name in Wyoming if it is already trademarked by another entity. You must select a new business name.
Can I change my business name in Wyoming if my business is involved in a legal dispute?
business involved in litigation can or cannot change operating names but owner/ members shall remain open under statutory records.
Can changing my business name in Wyoming help with rebranding or attracting new customers?
Yes, changing your business name in Wyoming can help with rebranding and attracting new customers, offering size complexity and recognition.
Will I need a new business bank account after changing my business name in Wyoming?
Yes, after changing your business name, it’s a good idea to open a new business bank account unless your bank allows updating bank name.
What if I don’t want to file a paper Amendment of Articles with the Wyoming Secretary of State?
You can, alternatively, use a document filing platform which allows for more digital editing and it will assess possible errors and inconsistencies.
What if I need to change other details about my business in addition to my business name in Wyoming?
If you need to change additional details about your business at the same time you change your business name in Wyoming, such as a new registered agent or new officers, you’ll need to file Articles of Correction for making additional changes.
Can a registered agent change my business name in Wyoming?
No, only an owner or authorized representative can file the Amendment of Articles to change their business name in Wyoming.
What is the statute citation for companies to change their name in Wyoming?
Companies can Complete the “Articles of Amendment – Change to Registered Name.” and will be cited the Statute at 17-16-702.

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Conclusion

Changing your business name in Wyoming 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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