How to Change an LLC Name in Ohio? (Step-by-Step Guide)
Understanding the process of changing an Ohio LLC name is crucial to maintaining compliance and credibility.
As a certified business consultant, I have dedicated several hours of in-depth research into Ohio's business entity regulations to provide this comprehensive step-by-step guide on LLC name changes in the state.
In this article, I'll walk you through the necessary procedures and legal considerations to ensure a smooth and successful LLC name change in Ohio.
Quick Summary
- To change the name of an LLC in Ohio, consult LLC members, check name availability, and amend the Articles of Incorporation.
- Additional important steps include updating the operating agreement and updating licenses and permits.
- The new Ohio business name must include the term "Limited Liability Company" or the abbreviation "LLC".
- I consistently advise my clients to seek approval from LLC members for a name change in Ohio, typically requiring the arrangement of a member meeting to introduce and discuss the proposed new name.
3 Steps To Change An LLC Name In Ohio
To change the name of your limited liability company in Ohio, it's essential to follow the right steps to ensure a smooth process:
1. Choose A New Ohio LLC Name
Before initiating the LLC name change process, find a new name and verify if it is available.
This step was crucial for us to ensure that no other business was already using the name we wanted for our Ohio LLC.
You can check for name availability using the Ohio Secretary of State business name search tool [1].
Ensure the name includes the required identifiers, such as:
- "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," "incorporated," and "limited" or their abbreviations.
- Avoid using restricted words that may mislead or confuse the public.
- The full legal name of the domestic LLC must be used in all filings, including LLC Articles of Organization and other initial documents.
- Restricted words and phrases (e.g., "Bank," "University") cannot be used in the name of an Ohio LLC unless your company obtains a specific exemption from the state.
- The Ohio Secretary of State's website offers detailed information about business names for LLCs.
Once you have a name but don't want to register it immediately the Ohio Secretary of State allows you to reserve it for 180 days by filing an Application for the Reservation of Name with the Ohio Secretary of State.
The required filing fee for online applicants is $25. In our case, we mailed our application and paid $39.
2. Get Member Approval For Name Change
Conduct a member's meeting to discuss and vote on the name change.
Passing a resolution with the majority's approval will officially authorize the name change process.
3. Amend Your Articles Of Incorporation
The next step will be to change the initial Articles of Incorporation by filing an LLC amendment form with the Ohio Secretary of State.
If you are not changing your formal business structure or your registered agent, the name change will only require you to file the Articles of Amendment for the business name change.
Update Form 543 (A), also called Domestic Limited Liability Company Certificate of Amendment [2]. This form will allow you to change the name of your LLC.
There is a $50 filing fee for this form. You can file for the Certificate of Amendment online or by mail.
Once processed, a certified copy of our Certificate of Amendment was sent to our operating address.
Authorized shares and/or par value can also be changed as part of this filing. If you are changing your LLC's registered agent, the name change process is a little more complicated.
The same goes for the change in your structure. For example, if you are changing from a sole proprietorship to an LLC or switching from a single-member LLC to a multi-member LLC.
What To Do After You Change Your Ohio LLC Name?
From our experience, additional measures might play a vital role in ensuring a smooth and seamless transition to the new name.
These additional steps might include:
- Updating your operating agreement: You should amend the LLC's operating agreement to reflect the new name and any other relevant changes resulting from the name change.
- Notify government agencies: Inform federal and state tax authorities about the LLC's name change. Update your tax information with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Ohio Department of Taxation.
- Inform banks and financial institutions: Inform banks and other relevant parties about the LLC's new name. Update all business accounts and credit cards to reflect the change.
- Update licenses and permits: Update any business license, permit, or registration associated with the limited liability company to include the new name. This step ensures legal compliance and avoids any disruptions in business operations.
- Update contracts and agreements: Revise all existing contracts and legal agreements to reflect your Ohio LLC's new name, ensuring legal consistency and clarity in all business dealings.
- Notify clients and customers: Inform your clients and customers about your Ohio LLC's name change through direct communication or public announcements to maintain trust and continuity in your business relationships.
Alternatives to LLC Name Change
There are two other ways you might consider when changing the name of your LLC in Ohio:
DBA
Registering a DBA allows your Ohio LLC to operate under a different name without legally changing the LLC's registered name, offering flexibility for branding and marketing.
Certificate of Correction
If the original name registration of your Ohio LLC contains an error or typo, filing a Certificate of Correction can rectify this mistake without undergoing a full name change process.
Related Articles:
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Change the Name of an LLC in Ohio?
It costs $50 to change the name of an LLC in Ohio. The Ohio Secretary of State is responsible for processing name change requests for a limited liability company.
How Long Does It Take to Change the Name of an Ohio LLC?
It takes around seven business days to complete the process of changing the name of an Ohio LLC. Expedited service allows you to file an Ohio amendment within two days, costing an additional $100.
Can I Change the Name of My Foreign LLC in Ohio?
You can change the name of your Foreign LLC in Ohio through a formal process. Ensure that the new name complies with state naming requirements. Then, file a Certificate of Amendment with the Ohio Secretary of State, providing the original and new names.
How Do I Change My DBA in Ohio?
You can change your DBA in Ohio by filing a 'Registration of Trade Name' form with the Secretary of State. Ensure the new name is legitimate and available for use.
References:
- https://www.ohiosos.gov/businesses/information-on-startin-and-maintainin-a-business/guide-to-name-availability/
- https://www.ohiosos.gov/globalassets/business/forms/543a.pdf
