How to Change an LLC Name in South Carolina? (Simple Guide)
Changing the name of your South Carolina LLC is usually a big step for entities seeking a new public outlook.
You may need to change your business name for multiple reasons, and it is always smart to be informed about the paperwork needed to file for a name change.
As an LLC expert with years of experience in the field, I have gathered all the needed information about the legal process of changing your business name in this article.
Quick Summary
- To change an LLC name in South Carolina, you will need to file a name reservation form and an Amendment Certificate.
- Online filing in South Carolina provides faster processing time and allows you to save the filing and correct errors until the filing is accepted.
- Only approved individuals, such as the manager or member of an LLC, can file an Amendment Certificate under the laws of South Carolina.
3 Steps To Change An LLC Name In South Carolina
The following are the steps to change an LLC name in South Carolina:
1. Choose a New South Carolina LLC Name
You should choose a new South Carolina LLC name, which has to be approved by the LLC's owner or the LLC's members.
Remember to abide by the general name requirements before you choose a name.
For example, the tag LLC must be at the end of the name and not be similar to other existing business names.
You can always perform a name check with the South Carolina Secretary of State to see if your chosen name is available.
Ensure that the chosen name does not violate the trademark rights of other businesses. If you plan to use your LLC's name as a trademark, take the necessary steps to protect its rights accordingly.
Learn how to look up an LLC in South Carolina.
2. File A Name Reservation Form
You can apply to reserve the exclusive use of a limited liability company name for a non-renewable 120-day period once you pay a filing fee of $25 to the South Carolina Secretary of State [1].
You will be required to provide the name, address, and signature of the applicant, as well as the filing date.
You must file two copies of this application: the original and either a duplicate original or a conformed copy and include a self-addressed, stamped envelope to have a filed copy returned by mail.
3. File A South Carolina Amendment Certificate
You can file a South Carolina Amendment Certificate to Articles of Organization by paying a filing fee of $110 to the South Carolina Secretary of State [2].
In the form, you must provide the name of the LLC, the date you filed the Articles of Organization, the reason why you want to amend the Articles of Organization, and the signature and date of either the LLC manager, LLC member, LLC organizer, fiduciary, or attorney-in-fact.
You must also note the following while filing a South Carolina LLC amendment form:
- You must file the amended LLC Articles of Organization in duplicate with two copies of this form: the original and either a duplicate or a conformed copy.
- You must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope to have a filed copy returned by mail.
- You can attach additional sheets containing a reference to the appropriate paragraph if the space in the form is insufficient.
- Make sure the proper individual has signed the form.
What To Do After You Change Your South Carolina LLC Name?
Once you have changed your LLC name, you will have to do the following:
- Update your LLC operating agreement by incorporating the new business name in your company document.
- Contact your bank and verify if you need to open a new LLC bank account due to the change in your company's name.
- Check Your Business License and Permits: You must contact the relevant authorities in South Carolina to see if you need to update your business license and permits or get new ones with the new LLC name.
- Inform the IRS regarding your company's change of name by sumitting a Certificate of Amendment and determine if you need to apply for a new EIN.
- Make Changes on Relevant Documents: Once your new name is in use, make sure to update all other documents related to your business.
Related articles:
- How to Open an LLC in South Carolina
- Top LLC Formation Service in South Carolina
- Cost of an LLC in South Carolina
- Filing an LLC Annual Report in South Carolina
FAQs
Do I Have To Notify The IRS Of My New South Carolina LLC Name?
You have to notify the IRS of your new South Carolina LLC name, providing them with information about your name change so they can update their records.
How Long Can I Reserve My LLC Name in South Carolina?
You can reserve your LLC name in South Carolina for a non-renewable 120-day period, after which, if you fail to register or trademark it, it will become available for use by other businesses.
Do You Need Help Changing Your South Carolina LLC Name?
If you run an LLC and do not have the time to change your South Carolina LLC name or you don't want to risk making a mistake, you should consult a professional service.
IncFile can get the job done for you at an affordable price.
They will handle all the paperwork and help you make changes to your documents and records to give your LLC a new look while you focus on other essential aspects of your business that matter.
References:
- https://businessfilings.sc.gov/BusinessFiling/Home/DownloadForms?pdfCategoryId=9&category=
- https://businessfilings.sc.gov/BusinessFiling/Home/DownloadForms?pdfCategoryId=2&category=
