Yes, changing the name of your Limited Liability Company (LLC) is possible, although sometimes complicated.
Reasons for Changing an LLC’s Name
You may want to change your LLC’s name for several reasons:
- To avoid confusingly similar names
- Reflect new owners or services
- Simplify the name
- Expand internationally
Checking Availability and Getting Approval
Before attempting a name change, ensure the desired name is available by searching your Secretary of State’s website.
To officially change the name, first get approval from the LLC’s members. Then file paperwork called “Articles of Amendment” with the state. Expect to pay around $100 plus state fees.
After Approval
After approval, which may take weeks, update marketing materials and notify financial institutions, vendors, and customers about the name change. Consider impacts on licenses, contracts, bank accounts, and taxes.
Alternatively, you can simply file for a “Doing Business As” name, also known as a DBA or fictitious name, instead of changing the official LLC name. This allows you to use a different public-facing name without changing the legal entity.
Overall, changing an LLC’s name is relatively straightforward, but has impacts across the business. Carefully weigh if simply registering a DBA would meet your needs instead of the full legal name change process. With some forethought, you can smoothly transition to a new LLC identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Quickly Can You Change an LLC’s Name?
The time to change a business name varies. Generally, once paperwork and fees are submitted to the Secretary of State, it takes days to weeks to process and approve a name change.
What if I Don’t Update Marketing Materials?
If you don’t update marketing materials after a name change, potential issues include:
- Customer confusion
- Missed communications
- Non-compliance
Steps to Change Your LLC Name in Nevada
- Check name availability
- Get member approval
- File Amendment to Articles
Considerations
While it’s easy to file, carefully consider the name change. Update the operating agreement, licenses, bank accounts. Notify the IRS. Consider if a DBA meets your needs instead.