How to Change Business Name in Mississippi


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Change Business Name in Mississippi

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 Mississippi, popularly known as The Magnolia 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 Mississippi, you must follow specific regulations the Mississippi state government sets. The current population of the so-called The Magnolia State is 2,959,473. Changing the name of your existing business in any city (especially in the capital, Jackson) 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 Mississippi involves three major steps. In this article, I have shared how to change a business name in Mississippi. To learn everything about changing a business name, I recommend you read the whole article till the end.

Reasons to Change a Business Name in Mississippi

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

Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in Mississippi

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 Mississippi frequently is neither easy nor desirable. If it is absolutely necessary to change the business name, you must consider the following points-

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

Changing your business name in Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi state
  • Board of Directors’ approval statement (for corporations)
  • Information of shares (if applicable)
  • Signatures of members (LLC) or Shareholders (Corporation)
  • Mississippi amendment filing fee

You must submit the above-mentioned list of details to the Mississippi 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 Mississippi Amendment

Once everything is arranged and checked, you can file the Amendment. You must amend Mississippi LLC Certificate of Formation for LLC or amend Mississippi 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 Mississippi

You can change the name of your business in Mississippi. You must file the Amendment for changing your name to the Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi-

  • Legal documents: Mississippi 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 Mississippi.
  • City/local registration: Some cities/local authorities in Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Mississippi. 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 is required to change a business name in Mississippi?
To change the name of your business in Mississippi, you must first fill out a Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation form, available on the Mississippi Secretary of State website. You must then submit the form to the Secretary of State’s office, along with a $25.00 filing fee.
Is it necessary to register a new business name in Mississippi?
Yes, if you want to use a new business name in Mississippi, you must register the name with the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office.
Is it required to publish a notice of the name change in Mississippi?
Yes, all name changes must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in Mississippi and in the county where the business is registered for at least one week prior to the date of filing.
How long does it take to change a business name in Mississippi?
Generally, it can take anywhere from 10-14 business days for the Mississippi Secretary of State to process your name change request.
What happens if I don’t change my business name in Mississippi?
If you continue to operate under an outdated name, you may face fines or other legal action.
What are the implications of changing a business name in Mississippi?
Changing a business name in Mississippi can have a wide range of implications, both positive and negative. On the positive side, it can help you establish a new identity, reach a wider audience, or reflect a change in ownership. On the negative side, it can lead to confusion among customers and suppliers, and can require you to invest in new forms and marketing materials.
Is there a fee to change a business name in Mississippi?
Yes, there is a $25.00 filing fee for changing a business name in Mississippi.
What documents are needed to change a business name in Mississippi?
To change the name of your business in Mississippi, you must fill out a Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation form, available on the Mississippi Secretary of State website.
What happens if I don’t comply with the requirements for changing a business name in Mississippi?
If you fail to comply with the requirements for changing a business name in Mississippi, you may face fines or other legal action.
What is the process for changing a business name in Mississippi?
The process for changing a business name in Mississippi includes filing a Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation form with the Mississippi Secretary of State, paying a $25.00 filing fee, and publishing a notice of the name change in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the business is registered.
Are there any restrictions on the types of names that can be used for a business in Mississippi?
Yes, businesses in Mississippi are required to use a unique name that is not already in use or too similar to an existing name. Additionally, the name cannot imply a corporate or government affiliation, or use any obscene or vulgar language.
How do I inform my customers of the name change?
Once the name change is approved, you should inform your customers of the change through various forms of communication, such as email, mailings, and social media posts.
Do I need to obtain a new business license after changing my business name in Mississippi?
Yes, you must obtain a new business license in Mississippi after changing your business name.
Can I use a DBA (Doing Business As) name in Mississippi?
Yes, businesses in Mississippi are allowed to use a DBA or trade name in addition to their legal name.
How can I search for existing business names in Mississippi?
You can use the Mississippi Secretary of State’s database to search for existing business names in Mississippi.
Is it necessary to notify the IRS of a business name change in Mississippi?
Yes, you must file Form 8822-B with the IRS to notify them of a business name change in Mississippi.
Do I need to inform my bank of the name change?
Yes, you must inform your bank of the name change in order to update your account information.
Do I need to update any contracts or documents that use my old business name?
Yes, you should update any contracts, documents, or other legal documents that use your old business name once the name change is approved.
Is there any additional paperwork required to change a business name in Mississippi?
No, once you have filed your Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation form and paid the filing fee, no additional paperwork is required.
Is it possible to reserve a business name in Mississippi?
Yes, you can reserve a business name in Mississippi for a period of up to 120 days by filing a Name Reservation Request form with the Mississippi Secretary of State.
Is there a deadline for filing the name change paperwork in Mississippi?
No, there is no deadline for filing the name change paperwork in Mississippi.
What if I want to change my business name more than once?
If you want to change your business name more than once, you must file a separate Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation form and pay the filing fee each time.
Are there any other filing requirements related to changing a business name in Mississippi?
Yes, all name changes must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in Mississippi and in the county where the business is registered for at least one week prior to the date of filing.
What is the cost of changing a business name in Mississippi?
The cost of changing a business name in Mississippi is $25.00, which is the filing fee for the Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation form.
How do I know if my name change was successful?
Once your name change is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Amendment reflecting the updated name from the Mississippi Secretary of State.
What if my name change request is denied?
If your name change request is denied, you can submit an appeal to the Mississippi Secretary of State.
Can I change my business address at the same time as my business name in Mississippi?
Yes, you can change your business address at the same time as your business name in Mississippi by filing a Certificate of Amendment of the Articles of Incorporation form.
Are there any other fees associated with changing a business name in Mississippi?
No, the only fee associated with changing a business name in Mississippi is the $25.00 filing fee.
How do I know if the name I want to use is available?
You can search the Mississippi Secretary of State’s database to see if the name you want to use is available.
Is it necessary to update my business documents after changing my business name?
Yes, it is important to update all of your business documents, such as contracts and invoices, with your new business name.

Also Read

Why Mississippi Change Business Name is So Important

The name “Mississippi” carries with it a weighty legacy that cannot be ignored. For many, it symbolizes a time when Jim Crow laws reigned supreme and Black Americans were treated as second-class citizens. It resonates with painful memories of violence, oppression, and systemic racism that continue to impact communities to this day. A name that may seem innocuous on the surface holds a deep significance to those who have borne the brunt of its history.

By changing its business name, Mississippi is signaling a commitment to confronting its past and shaping a more inclusive future. This decision is not about erasing history or disregarding tradition; rather, it is about acknowledging the harm that has been done and taking steps to move forward. It is a recognition that words matter, and that the names we choose to represent ourselves can either uphold or challenge the injustices of the past.

Moreover, changing its business name sends a powerful message to residents and visitors alike. It communicates that Mississippi is a state willing to reckon with its past and forge a new path towards equity and justice. It demonstrates a willingness to listen to marginalized voices, acknowledge their pain, and work towards healing and reconciliation. In a time marked by deep division and unrest, this gesture of humility and introspection is both timely and necessary.

Furthermore, changing its business name has broader implications for the state’s economy and reputation. In an increasingly globalized world, businesses are held to higher standards of social responsibility and ethical behavior. Consumers and investors alike are looking for brands that are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By changing its business name, Mississippi is positioning itself as a forward-thinking, progressive state that is ready to embrace change and better reflect the values of its people.

Ultimately, the decision to change its business name is an opportunity for Mississippi to redefine itself and shape its identity for a new era. It is a chance to move beyond the shadows of its past and create a brighter, more inclusive future for all who call the Magnolia State home. As the state takes this important step towards progress, let us all reflect on the power of names and the significance of the words we choose to represent ourselves.

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 Mississippi efficiently and effectively. The process of changing the name and filing the amendment form in Mississippi 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.

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