How to Change a Business Name in West Virginia
Changing the name of a business in West Virginia can be done by filing for a trade name or by submitting an amendment to the legal name.
Necessary Steps for Changing a Business Name
- Filing for a trade name (DBA name) is the easiest way to operate your business using a different name without needing to change its legal name.
- Ensure that all information and fees are submitted correctly.
Considerations for Name Change
- Conduct a name search using the Secretary of State’s database to ensure availability and avoid potential legal issues.
- Careful consideration and member consensus are important to ensure continuity and legal compliance when changing an LLC name.
Requirements for Name Change
- A Certificate of Assumed Name is required when changing the corporation name in West Virginia.
- To renew a Certificate of Assumed Name, file a new one before expiration.
- Filing the Amendment certificate with the fee is required to change an LLC name in West Virginia.
Additional Information
- Updating all legal documents and notifying relevant authorities and contacts are necessary after changing an LLC name.
- Changing a West Virginia LLC name smoothly may require guidance from an LLC service.
FAQ for Business Name Change in West Virginia
How to Change a Business Name
- To change your business name in West Virginia, you need to provide the name of the business and the name of the owner or owners of the business.
- The Certificate of Assumed Name must be submitted within 90 days of the effective date of the name change.
- The filing fee for an Amendment certificate with the West Virginia Secretary of State is $25.
Timeframe for Name Change
- It takes about 3-5 business days for the Secretary of State to process the Business Registration Update Form for a business name change.
Compliance and Updates
- Yes, you can keep the same EIN when you change your business name in West Virginia.
- Yes, you will need to update your business license with your new business name after it has been changed.
- Yes, you will need to notify the IRS after changing your business name in West Virginia.
Pricing and Online Options
- The fee to file an application for a West Virginia Certificate of Authority is $25.
- Yes, the West Virginia Secretary of State website allows you to change your business name online.
Legal Implications and Renewals
- You may need to update your West Virginia business license or obtain a new one depending on the type of business you operate.
- Address any outstanding debts, liens, or judgments separately when changing your business name.
Public Notice and Obligations
- The new business name will be publicly available on the Secretary of State’s website.
- The public has 30 days to object to a corporation’s amendment of articles, including a name change.
Reporting to IRS
- Yes, if you change your business name in West Virginia, you must notify the IRS to update your EIN records.