How to Change Your LLC Name in Alabama

Changing your LLC name in Alabama requires filing Articles of Amendment with the Alabama Secretary of State. Whether you’re rebranding, fixing a trademark issue, or simply want a better name for your business, the process is straightforward but involves several important steps both before and after filing.

When You Need to Change Your LLC Name

There are several reasons you might need to change your Alabama LLC name:

• Rebranding: Your business has evolved and you want a name that better reflects your services
• Trademark conflicts: Another company has challenged your name or you’ve discovered a potential infringement
• Market expansion: You’re expanding into new markets where your current name doesn’t work well
• Partnership changes: Adding or removing partners and want the name to reflect the new structure
• Professional requirements: Certain licensed professions have naming restrictions that require changes

Step 1: Check New Name Availability

Before filing any paperwork, you must ensure your desired new name is available for use in Alabama. Your new name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC” and cannot be too similar to existing business names.

You can search for name availability through the Alabama LLC name search system. This free search will show you if your desired name conflicts with existing LLCs, corporations, or other business entities.

Reserve Your New Name

Once you confirm your desired name is available, consider reserving it by filing a Name Reservation with the Alabama Secretary of State. This costs $25 and holds the name for 120 days while you prepare your amendment paperwork.

Source: Alabama Secretary of State Fee Schedule, verified March 2026

Step 2: File Articles of Amendment

To officially change your LLC name in Alabama, you must file Articles of Amendment with the Alabama Secretary of State. This document formally requests the name change and updates your LLC’s official records.

Required Information

Your Articles of Amendment must include:

• Your LLC’s current legal name
• The new name you want to adopt
• The date the amendment takes effect (can be immediate or a future date)
• A statement that the amendment was approved according to your operating agreement
• Signature of an authorized member or manager

Filing Fee and Processing

The Alabama Secretary of State charges $100 to file Articles of Amendment. You can file online through the Alabama Secretary of State website or mail paper forms with a check. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days for both methods.

Step 3: Update Federal and State Records

Once the Alabama Secretary of State approves your name change, you need to update various government agencies and financial institutions.

Update Your EIN with the IRS

Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) stays the same, but you must notify the IRS of the name change. Send a letter to the IRS including:

• Your EIN
• Your old business name
• Your new business name
• The effective date of the change
• The reason for the change
• Your signature

Mail this letter to the IRS address for your state. The IRS will send you Letter 147C confirming the name change, which you’ll need for banking and other updates.

Update Alabama Department of Revenue

Since Alabama LLCs must file an annual Business Privilege Tax Return, notify the Alabama Department of Revenue of your name change. This ensures your Alabama LLC tax filings are properly processed under your new name.

Step 4: Update Business Banking and Financial Accounts

Contact all your business banks and financial institutions to update your accounts with the new LLC name. You’ll typically need:

• Certified copy of your approved Articles of Amendment
• IRS Letter 147C (once received)
• Updated operating agreement with the new name
• Valid ID for account signers

Your Alabama LLC needs a dedicated business bank account to maintain liability protection. If you don’t have one yet, consider opening an account designed for LLCs.

Step 5: Update Licenses, Permits, and Contracts

Review all your business licenses, permits, and contracts to update them with your new LLC name. This includes:

• Professional licenses
• Sales tax permits
• Local business licenses
• Vendor contracts
• Lease agreements
• Insurance policies
• Loan agreements

Contact each issuing agency or organization to understand their specific requirements for name change updates. Some may require new applications while others accept amendments.

Step 6: Update Your Operating Agreement

Amend your LLC’s operating agreement to reflect the new name throughout the document. While Alabama doesn’t require LLCs to have written operating agreements, having an updated one protects your business and ensures all members are aware of the name change.

If you have a registered agent, notify them of the name change so they can properly handle any legal documents addressed to your LLC.

Step 7: Update Marketing Materials and Online Presence

Finally, update all your business marketing materials and online presence:

• Website domain and content
• Business cards and letterhead
• Social media profiles
• Email signatures
• Directory listings
• Advertising materials
• Signage

If you’re launching a new website or updating your online presence significantly, reliable web hosting is essential for your rebranded LLC.

Timeline and Costs Summary

The complete process of changing your Alabama LLC name typically takes 2-4 weeks from start to finish. Here’s the cost breakdown:

• Name Reservation (optional): $25
• Articles of Amendment: $100
• Certified copies: $25 each (you’ll likely need 2-3)
• Updated marketing materials: Varies
• Professional services (if used): Varies

Total mandatory costs range from $100-$175, not including any professional services or marketing material updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Alabama LLC name online?

Yes, you can file Articles of Amendment online through the Alabama Secretary of State website. The online filing fee is the same $100 as paper filing.

How long does a name change take in Alabama?

The Alabama Secretary of State typically processes Articles of Amendment within 3-5 business days. However, updating all your business records, banking, and marketing materials can take several additional weeks.

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

No, your EIN stays the same. You just need to notify the IRS of the name change by sending a letter with the required information.

Can I do business under my old name during the transition?

Once your name change is officially approved, you should begin using your new legal name for all business purposes. However, you can continue honoring existing contracts signed under your old name.

What if my desired name becomes unavailable while I’m preparing paperwork?

This is why reserving your new name for $25 is recommended. The 120-day reservation period gives you time to complete the amendment process without risk of losing your desired name.

Managing your LLC’s ongoing compliance and financial records becomes easier with proper accounting software designed for small businesses.

Changing your Alabama LLC name is a manageable process when you follow the proper steps and stay organized. The key is thorough preparation and systematic updates to all your business records and relationships.

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.