Keeping Your EIN
Can you change your business name and keep the same EIN? If you change your name soon after you file your annual tax return, then you can inform the IRS of the EIN number change name through a signed notification, similar to a sole proprietorship. EINs do not expire. Once an EIN has been issued to an entity, it will not be reissued. If you only run one business entity, the IRS will only issue you a single EIN. It’s not possible or necessary to have multiple tax ID numbers for a single company. You will be required to obtain a new EIN if a new LLC with more than one owner (Multi-member LLC) is formed under state law. If you are changing the business name but keeping the same business structure and owner, you may not need to obtain a new EIN.
Starting a Business and DBAs
You don’t need to register with city or county governments to start a business. However, if your business is an LLC, partnership, or nonprofit corporation, you need to file for licenses and permits from the city or county. Business owners and other authorized individuals can submit a name change for their business. The rules for obtaining a Federal Employer Identification Number are the same whether you do business under your formal business name or as a DBA. Applying is free and easy. And you’ll only need one number—even if you have more than one DBA.
Steps for a Business Name Change
To change the name of your LLC or corporation and keep your existing EIN you will need to submit an application to the IRS. This includes an application form, the entity’s original articles of incorporation or organization, the entity’s original federal income tax return, and a statement from the state in which it was created stating it is still in good standing.
- Contact your bank to find out if the existing business bank account’s name can be changed to the new DBA, or if it will require opening a new bank account.
- Check with county, city, and local government authorities to find out if business licenses and permits must be updated or obtained for the new DBA.
The name of a general partnership or proprietorship is the same as the business owner, and they can file for a fictitious DBA (Doing Business As) for marketing.
IRS Steps to Change Business Name
Inform the IRS of EIN name changes through signed notification if you change your name soon after filing your tax return. Visit the IRS Business Name Change page to see if you need a new EIN when changing your name. An authorized representative must sign the document. Call the IRS to immediately update your records after submitting a name change.
EIN and Business Name Matching
The name on the EIN should mirror the approved name with the Secretary of State. When you file a return, the EIN only has to match the name control, normally the first four name characters. Although changing your name does not require a new EIN, it’s important to keep your records updated with the IRS.