How to Change Your LLC Name in Louisiana

Changing your LLC name in Louisiana requires filing Articles of Amendment with the Secretary of State. Whether you’re rebranding for marketing reasons, resolving trademark conflicts, or simply choosing a better business name, the process is straightforward but involves several important steps beyond just filing paperwork.

When You Might Need to Change Your LLC Name

Louisiana LLCs change their names for various business reasons:

• Business expansion: Your original name no longer reflects your expanded services or geographic reach
• Rebranding efforts: You want a more memorable or marketable business name
• Trademark issues: Another business has trademark rights to your current name
• Partnership changes: Adding or removing partners may warrant a name update
• Professional growth: Your business has evolved and needs a name that better represents your current focus

Step-by-Step Process to Change Your LLC Name

Step 1: Check New Name Availability

Before filing any paperwork, verify your desired name is available through the Louisiana Secretary of State’s business name database. You can search online or contact the office directly to confirm availability.

If you want to secure the name while preparing your amendment paperwork, you can file a name reservation for $25. This holds your desired name for 60 days while you complete the legal name change process.

Step 2: File Articles of Amendment

The core of changing your LLC name involves filing Articles of Amendment with the Louisiana Secretary of State. This document formally notifies the state of your name change and updates your official LLC records.

Required Information:

• Your LLC’s current legal name
• Your new desired name
• The specific amendment being made (name change)
• Signature of an authorized member or manager

Filing Fee: $100 for standard processing. Louisiana offers expedited processing for an additional $30 (24-hour processing) or $50 (2-4 hour processing) if you need the change completed quickly.

Filing Methods: You can file Articles of Amendment by mail or in person. Both methods require the same $100 filing fee. Some parishes may require using the geauxBIZ online system for certain filings.

Source: Louisiana Secretary of State, verified March 2026

Step 3: Professional Filing Services

While you can file Articles of Amendment yourself, many LLC owners use professional filing services to ensure accuracy and speed up the process. These services handle the paperwork and can often expedite filing.

After Your Name Change is Approved

Once the Secretary of State approves your Articles of Amendment, your LLC officially has a new name. However, this is just the beginning. You’ll need to update your information with various government agencies, financial institutions, and business partners.

Update Your Federal Tax Information

Contact the IRS to update your LLC’s name on your Employer Identification Number (EIN) records. You’ll need to send Letter 147C to the IRS explaining the name change and providing documentation of the state approval. This ensures your federal tax filings match your new legal name.

Update Banking and Financial Accounts

Your business bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial instruments need to reflect your new name. Contact each financial institution with a copy of your approved Articles of Amendment to update their records.

Many LLC owners find this a good time to evaluate their business banking options. Separating business and personal finances protects your LLC’s limited liability status and simplifies tax preparation.

Update Business Licenses and Permits

Review all your business licenses, permits, and professional certifications. Most licensing bodies require notification when your business name changes. This might include:

• State business licenses
• Professional licenses
• City or parish business permits
• Industry-specific certifications
• Sales tax permits

Update Your Operating Agreement

If your LLC has an operating agreement, amend it to reflect the new business name. This internal document should always match your official state filings to avoid confusion among members and managers.

Update Marketing Materials and Online Presence

Update all customer-facing materials with your new name:

• Website and domain name
• Business cards and letterhead
• Marketing brochures and advertisements
• Social media profiles
• Email signatures
• Signage and vehicle graphics

This is also an excellent time to ensure your online presence supports your rebranding efforts. A professional website helps establish credibility with your new business name.

Processing Time and Timeline

Louisiana processes Articles of Amendment on a routine basis, though specific timeframes aren’t guaranteed. Standard processing typically takes several weeks, while expedited options can complete your filing within 24 hours or 2-4 hours depending on the service level you choose.

Plan for additional time to update all your business records, accounts, and marketing materials after the state approves your name change. This comprehensive update process often takes 4-6 weeks to complete fully.

Total Cost Summary

The complete cost of changing your LLC name in Louisiana includes:

• Articles of Amendment: $100 (standard processing)
• Expedited processing: +$30 (24-hour) or +$50 (2-4 hour) – optional
• Name reservation: $25 – optional but recommended
• Professional filing service: Varies by provider

Additional costs may include updating business licenses, ordering new marketing materials, and updating your website or domain name.

Maintaining Compliance After the Name Change

After changing your LLC name, you’ll still need to maintain Louisiana compliance requirements. Your Louisiana LLC must continue filing annual reports and paying the required fees. The annual report fee is $30 and due during your LLC’s anniversary month.

You’ll also need to maintain a registered agent in Louisiana and ensure all business addresses remain current with the Secretary of State.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my LLC name to anything I want?

No, your new name must comply with Louisiana’s naming requirements. It must include “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC” and cannot be identical to existing business names on file with the state.

Do I need to publish my name change in a newspaper?

No, Louisiana doesn’t require publication of LLC name changes in newspapers.

How long does a name change take?

Standard processing takes several weeks, though Louisiana offers expedited options for an additional fee. Plan 4-6 weeks for the complete process including updating all your business records.

What if my new name gets rejected?

If the Secretary of State rejects your proposed name, you’ll need to choose a different name and file a new Articles of Amendment with another $100 fee.

Can I operate under my old name during the transition?

Once your name change is approved, you should begin using your new legal name immediately. However, you may need a brief transition period to update all materials and accounts.

Managing the administrative details of your newly named LLC becomes easier with proper accounting systems in place. Good record-keeping helps track expenses related to the name change and maintains organized business finances.

Understanding Louisiana’s LLC tax requirements remains important regardless of your business name. The name change doesn’t affect your tax obligations or election status with the IRS.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Filing fees and requirements change : always confirm current fees with your state’s Secretary of State office.