How to Change Business Name in Minnesota

Changing a business name can give your company a new lease on life, but following the correct legal procedures is essential to ensure a smooth transition. The name is the first identity of your business. If you run it for a while and then decide to change, you must update the new name everywhere. In Minnesota, popularly known as The North Star State, the process of modifying your business name can be quite straightforward, provided you adhere to the necessary rules and regulations.

You must follow some steps and regulations while changing your business name. For example, if you start an LLC in Minnesota, you must follow specific regulations the Minnesota state government sets. The current population of the so-called The North Star State is 5,827,265. Changing the name of your existing business in any city (especially in the capital, Saint Paul) might affect your business reputation and existing customers adversely. Hence, before you change the name of your business, make sure the decision is rightfully taken.

Technically, the process of changing your business name in Minnesota involves three major steps. In this article, I have shared how to change a business name in Minnesota. To learn everything about changing a business name, I recommend you read the whole article till the end.

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

Reasons to Change a Business Name in Minnesota
- Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in Minnesota
How to Change a Business Name in Minnesota
Things to do After Filing the Minnesota Amendment
FAQs

Reasons to Change a Business Name in Minnesota

Rebranding: A business may want to change its name in Minnesota to reflect the new brand identity, target a different market, or signify a shift in the company’s vision and goals.
Merger or acquisition: If a business in Minnesota merges with or is acquired by another company, a name change may be necessary to represent the combined entity accurately.
Legal reasons: A business in Minnesota may need to change its name due to trademark disputes, cease and desist letters, or other legal issues.
Expanding to new markets: If a business in Minnesota is looking to expand into new regions or countries, a name change may be needed to avoid confusion with existing businesses in those markets or to appeal to a broader audience.
Negative associations: A business in Minnesota may want to change its name if the current name has become associated with negative events, such as scandals or poor customer experiences.
Simplifying the name: A business in Minnesota may choose to change its name to a simpler or more memorable one, making it easier for customers to remember and find.
Reflecting a change in ownership: If a business in Minnesota changes ownership, the new owners might change the business name.

Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in Minnesota

There are a few things to consider before you change your existing business name. A business name change is a huge decision for any company. Changing the business name in Minnesota frequently is neither easy nor desirable. If it is absolutely necessary to change the business name, you must consider the following points-

Legal requirements: Ensure you follow the necessary legal steps to change your business name in Minnesota.
Name availability: Search the Minnesota business registry to make sure your desired new name is available and does not infringe on any existing trademarks or business names.
Impact on branding and marketing: Assess how a name change will affect your existing brand identity, marketing materials, and overall company image in Minnesota.
Customer perception and loyalty: Consider how your current customers in Minnesota will react to a name change and whether it may cause confusion or negatively impact customer loyalty.
Costs associated with the name change: Changing your business name in Minnesota may involve costs such as new signage, website updates, and reprinting marketing materials. Be sure to budget for these expenses.
Updating licenses and permits: You must update any licenses, permits, and registrations with the new business name in Minnesota.
Maintaining continuity: Consider maintaining continuity with your old name during the transition period and address any potential confusion among customers and clients in Minnesota.
Tax implications: Consult with a tax professional to understand any tax consequences or implications of changing your business name in Minnesota.
Reputation management: Be prepared to manage your online reputation during the transition, as customers may leave reviews or comments on social media related to the business name change.

How to Change a Business Name in Minnesota

Changing your business name in Minnesota is not difficult, as I mentioned. But, before we start with the steps, you must know that one must follow some LLC naming guidelines while naming their LLC. Based on the type of business structure, naming guidelines may vary. Following are some of the guidelines an LLC must follow while changing the business name-

The name should be available to use
Any other business does not use the name.
The new name must include “LLC” if it is a limited liability company.
The name should not be confused with a government entity, such as banks, treasury, or any governmental organization.

Read Minnesota LLC name search to learn about LLC naming if you form an LLC. Now, let’s dive into the steps to change the business name-

Step 1: Choose the New Name for Your Business

The first step is to choose a new name for your business. Many people file a DBA (Doing Business As) or a Fictitious Name before filing their business with the SOS. Later, they can change that name and get a new one when filing their business. When you decide to change the name of your business, you can search for the name to check if the new name is already taken or available for you to use.

To choose a new name, you must go through the same process you did when you first named your business. You go to the Minnesota SOS, search for the name, check if the name is available to use if it is available, finalize it and proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare Documents to File the Amendment

As soon as you are ready with the new business name, you must start preparing to file the Minnesota Amendment. Along with the name change form, you must submit the following details,

Current business name
New business name
The entity number of the business – issued by Minnesota state
Board of Directors’ approval statement (for corporations)
Information of shares (if applicable)
Signatures of members (LLC) or Shareholders (Corporation)
Minnesota amendment filing fee

You must submit the above-mentioned list of details to the Minnesota SOS while filing the new business name. Ensure the details you provide for the Amendment are consistent with the initial filing documents. Failing to do so might result in the cancellation of the registration.

Step 3: File the Minnesota Amendment

Once everything is arranged and checked, you can file the Amendment. You must amend Minnesota LLC Articles of Organization for LLC or amend Minnesota Articles of Incorporation for the corporation. Remember, you must attach the name reservation form with the Amendment forms. You can file it online or by mail, whichever is available.

What Will Happen If I Change My Business Name in Minnesota

You can change the name of your business in Minnesota. You must file the Amendment for changing your name to the Minnesota Secretary of State. The process of filing the amendment is the same for an LLC and a corporation. However, the forms are different. The forms are available on the official website of Minnesota Secretary of State.

It is recommended to check if the name change is absolutely necessary. Because it can affect the whole business. In some cases, it is better to start a new Business than change the name of an existing one.
– LLCBuddy Editorial Team

Things to do After Filing the Minnesota Amendment

As soon as you are done with the filing process, you must update the new business name in other areas as well. Following are some points to consider after you change your business name in Minnesota-

Legal documents: Minnesota statement of information, loan documents, active legal contracts, or any other legal documents must be amended with the changed name.
Informing stakeholders: Ensure that you communicate the name change effectively to all your stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, and partners in Minnesota.
City/local registration: Some cities/local authorities in Minnesota might need business registration. If your city has the same rule, then you must register your new business name with the city by submitting appropriate documents.
Business License: The business licenses you obtained previously to run a business in Minnesota have the current name of your business. Hence, you must update your new name with the proper department to obtain appropriate business licenses and permits.
Bank Accounts: It is obvious that all your business accounts in Minnesota have a current business name. Once you change the name, file the amendment, and pay the fees, you must update the bank accounts to avoid any inconvenience.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS): It is essential to update the IRS once you change your business name in Alabama. Neglecting to notify the IRS and other relevant entities may lead to confusion and disorganization within your business operations. It is absolutely necessary to amend with the IRS once you change the current business name in Minnesota. Failing to amend with the IRS or any other places results in confusion and disorganization of the business.
Others: If you have employees, you must inform the employment development authority of the name change. Additionally, it is important to update various business permits and other legal documents as needed.
Website: Finally, if you have a domain, update the name there to avoid confusion. Signage, visiting cards, merchandise, and any other places where your business name is mentioned should be updated. Changing the domain name will not be a good idea as it can affect your SEO results.

FAQs

What are the steps required to change a business name in Minnesota?

In order to change a business name in Minnesota, you must file a new Assumed Name Certificate with the Minnesota Secretary of State, update all documents with the new business name, and inform the IRS and Minnesota Department of Revenue of the new business name.

How much does it cost to change a business name in Minnesota?

The cost to file an Assumed Name Certificate in Minnesota is $50.

What documents need to be updated when changing a business name in Minnesota?

When changing a business name in Minnesota, you must update any relevant documents including the company’s website, invoices, contracts, business cards, and any other documents that may include the business name.

Is it necessary to inform the IRS and Minnesota Department of Revenue when changing a business name?

Yes, it is necessary to inform the IRS and Minnesota Department of Revenue when changing a business name in Minnesota.

Is there a time limit for filing an Assumed Name Certificate in Minnesota?

No, there is no time limit for filing an Assumed Name Certificate in Minnesota.

Is it necessary to register a new business name with the Minnesota Secretary of State?

Yes, it is necessary to register a new business name with the Minnesota Secretary of State in order to change a business name in Minnesota.

Are there any restrictions on the types of names that can be used for a business in Minnesota?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of names that can be used for a business in Minnesota. The name must be distinguishable from any other existing business name registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State.

Is the process for changing a business name in Minnesota the same as in other states?

No, the process for changing a business name in Minnesota may be different than in other states. It is important to check the specific laws and regulations in each state before changing a business name.

Does a business name change in Minnesota require a new set of business licensing documents?

Yes, a business name change in Minnesota requires a new set of business licensing documents.

How long does the process of changing a business name in Minnesota typically take?

The process of changing a business name in Minnesota typically takes approximately two weeks.

Is it necessary to update the business’s bank accounts when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, it is necessary to update the business’s bank accounts when changing a business name in Minnesota.

Is it necessary to update the business’s social media accounts when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, it is necessary to update the business’s social media accounts when changing a business name in Minnesota.

Is there any additional paperwork required when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, there may be additional paperwork required when changing a business name in Minnesota. Depending on the type of business, additional paperwork may be necessary to update government agencies and other organizations.

Does a business name change in Minnesota require a new business license?

Yes, a business name change in Minnesota requires a new business license.

Is it necessary to update the business’s trademark when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, it is necessary to update the business’s trademark when changing a business name in Minnesota.

Are there any restrictions on how often a business name can be changed in Minnesota?

Yes, there are restrictions on how often a business name can be changed in Minnesota. A business name can only be changed once every five years.

Is it necessary to update the business’s legal documents when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, it is necessary to update the business’s legal documents when changing a business name in Minnesota.

Is it necessary to inform customers of the business name change in Minnesota?

Yes, it is necessary to inform customers of the business name change in Minnesota.

Does a business name change in Minnesota require a new Employer Identification Number (EIN)?

Yes, a business name change in Minnesota requires a new Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Is there a form to fill out when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, there is a form to fill out when changing a business name in Minnesota. The form is an Assumed Name Certificate, which can be found on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

Does a business name change in Minnesota require a new business address?

No, a business name change in Minnesota does not require a new business address.

Does a business name change in Minnesota require a new business phone number?

No, a business name change in Minnesota does not require a new business phone number.

Does a business name change in Minnesota require a new website?

No, a business name change in Minnesota does not require a new website.

Is it necessary to inform the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, it is necessary to inform the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development when changing a business name in Minnesota.

Is it necessary to inform the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry when changing a business name in Minnesota?

Yes, it is necessary to inform the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry when changing a business name in Minnesota.

Does a business name change in Minnesota require a new business insurance policy?

Yes, a business name change in Minnesota requires a new business insurance policy.

What are the requirements to change a business name in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the county office in the county where the business is located. You must also provide the Minnesota Secretary of State with a copy of the filing. Additional paperwork may be required depending on the type of business entity.

How do I file a Certificate of Assumed Name in Minnesota?

The process for filing a Certificate of Assumed Name in Minnesota is done through the county office where the business is located. The filing process is done in-person or by mail.

What documents do I need to change my business name in Minnesota?

To change your business name in Minnesota, you will need to submit a completed Certificate of Assumed Name, along with any additional documentation that may be required depending on the type of business entity.

How long does it take to change a business name in Minnesota?

Generally, the process of changing a business name in Minnesota takes around one to two weeks.

Is my business name protected after I change it in Minnesota?

Yes, your business name is protected after you have filed the Certificate of Assumed Name with the state and the county.

Do I need to update my business license when I change my business name in Minnesota?

Depending on the type of business entity you have, you may need to update your business license when you change your business name. It is important to check with your local county office to determine what steps you need to take.

Do I need to notify my customers when I change my business name in Minnesota?

Yes, it is important to notify your customers that your business name has changed. You should also make sure to update your website and any other marketing materials with the new name.

Why Minnesota Change Business Name is So Important

The decision by Minnesota Change to change its business name is a significant step in this direction. By acknowledging the implications of its previous name, the company is demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and a willingness to evolve with the changing societal landscape.

For many people, a company’s name is more than just a label. It is a reflection of who they are and what they stand for. When a business chooses to change its name, it is sending a powerful message that it is willing to listen, learn, and adapt. This kind of self-awareness and willingness to evolve is crucial in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world.

In the case of Minnesota Change, the decision to change its name is particularly important due to the potential harm that can be caused by a name that is offensive or outdated. In a globalized world where information travels at lightning speed, companies cannot afford to overlook the impact of their name on the public perception of their brand.

Moreover, a business name that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of the values of the company can also have a positive impact on employee morale and productivity. When employees feel proud of the company they work for, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated, leading to better overall performance and productivity.

The importance of a name change goes beyond just the symbolic gesture. It is also a tangible way for a company to show its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By choosing a name that is more reflective of its values and principles, Minnesota Change is taking a concrete step towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming work environment for its employees and customers.

Furthermore, changing a business name can also have positive implications for the company’s bottom line. A name change can help to reinvigorate a brand, attract new customers, and drive growth and innovation. By signaling a commitment to change and progress, a company can also differentiate itself from competitors and position itself as a forward-thinking leader in its industry.

In conclusion, the decision by Minnesota Change to change its business name is an important and necessary step in the right direction. By recognizing the importance of a name that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of its values, the company is setting a positive example for others to follow. It is through actions like this that we can create a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable world for all.

Conclusion

It is not desirable to change business names frequently. But if it is required, you must change it. Whether you are rebranding or restructuring your company, this guide walks you through the essential steps to change your business name in Minnesota efficiently and effectively. The process of changing the name and filing the amendment form in Minnesota is not so difficult. However, a list of details is needed to submit. Make sure they all are accurate and consistent with the previous filing documents.