How to Change Your LLC Name in Texas

Changing your LLC’s name in Texas is a straightforward process that involves filing paperwork with the Texas Secretary of State. Whether you’re rebranding your business, correcting a spelling error, or expanding into new markets, you’ll need to follow specific steps to make the change official.

When You Need to Change Your LLC Name

There are several common reasons why LLC owners decide to change their business name:

• Business expansion: Your company has grown beyond its original scope
• Rebranding: You want to better reflect your current services or target market
• Legal issues: Your current name conflicts with another business or trademark
• Marketing reasons: You need a more memorable or professional-sounding name
• Partnership changes: Adding or removing partners affects the business focus

Step-by-Step Process to Change Your Texas LLC Name

Step 1: Check New Name Availability

Before filing any paperwork, you need to verify that your desired name is available. Texas requires LLC names to be “distinguishable upon the records” of the Secretary of State, meaning it can’t be too similar to existing business names.

Use the Texas LLC name search tool on the Secretary of State website to check availability. Your new name must end with “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”

Step 2: File Certificate of Amendment

Once you’ve confirmed your new name is available, you’ll need to file a Certificate of Amendment with the Texas Secretary of State. This document officially changes your LLC’s name in the state records.

Required information for the amendment:

• Your LLC’s current legal name
• Your LLC’s file number (from original Certificate of Formation)
• The new name you want to adopt
• Statement that the amendment was authorized by all members or managers

Filing options:

• Online (SOS Direct): 10-12 business days processing
• Online (SOS Upload): 13-15 business days processing
• Mail: 4-8 weeks plus mail delivery time

The filing fee is $150 regardless of which method you choose. Texas accepts credit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa) for online filings.

Source: Texas Secretary of State, verified March 2024

Step 3: Wait for Approval

After submitting your Certificate of Amendment, the Texas Secretary of State will review your filing. If everything is correct and your new name meets all requirements, they’ll approve the amendment and update their records.

You’ll receive a filed-stamped copy of your Certificate of Amendment, which serves as official proof of your name change. Keep this document with your other important LLC records.

What to Do After Your Name Change is Approved

Getting approval from the Secretary of State is just the beginning. You’ll need to update your LLC information with multiple agencies and organizations to ensure your name change is recognized everywhere.

Update Federal Tax Information

Contact the IRS to update your LLC’s name on file. You don’t need a new Employer Identification Number (EIN), but you should send a letter to the IRS with the following information:

• Your EIN
• Old LLC name
• New LLC name
• Date the name change became effective
• Reason for the name change

Send this letter to the IRS address where you file your tax returns. The IRS will send you Letter 147C confirming the name change.

Update Banking and Financial Accounts

Contact your business bank to update your LLC’s name on all accounts. You’ll typically need to provide:

• Filed Certificate of Amendment
• Current account information
• Identification from authorized signers

Your LLC should maintain a separate business bank account to preserve liability protection. If you don’t have one yet, this is a good time to open a business account that properly reflects your new name.

Update Business Licenses and Permits

Review all your business licenses and permits to determine which ones need updating with your new name. This might include:

• State business licenses
• Professional licenses
• Local permits
• Industry-specific certifications
• Sales tax permits

Each licensing authority has its own process and fees for name changes, so contact them individually to learn their requirements.

Update Your Operating Agreement

Modify your LLC’s operating agreement to reflect the new name. While Texas doesn’t require LLCs to have operating agreements, having an updated agreement protects your interests and ensures all members are aware of the name change.

Update Marketing Materials and Online Presence

Don’t forget to update all your business materials with the new name:

• Website and domain name
• Business cards and letterhead
• Social media profiles
• Email signatures
• Advertising materials
• Contracts and agreements
• Insurance policies

Timeline and Costs

The total time to complete your LLC name change depends on several factors:

Cost breakdown:

• Certificate of Amendment filing fee: $150
• Name reservation (optional): $40
• Professional services (optional): $100-$500
• Marketing material updates: Varies

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some pitfalls that can delay or complicate your name change:

• Not checking name availability thoroughly: Similar names might still be rejected
• Forgetting to update contracts: Existing agreements should reference your new name
• Ignoring trademark issues: Make sure your new name doesn’t infringe on existing trademarks
• Rushing the process: Take time to consider all implications of the name change

Professional Help vs. DIY

You can file the Certificate of Amendment yourself through the Texas Secretary of State website. However, many business owners prefer professional help to ensure everything is done correctly and to handle the various updates required after the name change.

Professional services typically charge $100-$500 in addition to the state filing fee, but they can save you time and reduce the risk of errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a new EIN after changing my LLC name?

No, you keep the same EIN. Just notify the IRS of the name change by sending a letter with your new name and supporting documentation.

Can I change my LLC name to anything I want?

Your new name must be distinguishable from other business names on file with the Texas Secretary of State and must include “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company.”

How long does the name change take to become effective?

The name change becomes effective on the date the Secretary of State files your Certificate of Amendment, typically 10-15 business days after submission.

Will changing my LLC name affect my credit or contracts?

Your LLC’s credit history and existing contracts remain intact, but you should update contracts and notify creditors of the name change to avoid confusion.

Can I change my LLC name multiple times?

Yes, there’s no limit on how many times you can change your LLC name, though you’ll pay the $150 filing fee each time.

Changing your LLC name in Texas requires careful attention to detail, but the process is manageable when you follow the proper steps. Remember to budget time and money not just for the initial filing, but for all the updates you’ll need to make afterward.

For more information about managing your Texas LLC, check out our comprehensive guide on how to start an LLC in Texas or learn about Texas LLC tax requirements.

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.