How to Change Business Name in North Dakota

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 North Dakota, popularly known as The Peace Garden 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 North Dakota, you must follow specific regulations the North Dakota state government sets. The current population of the so-called The Peace Garden State is 811,044. Changing the name of your existing business in any city (especially in the capital, Bismarck) 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 North Dakota involves three major steps. In this article, I have shared how to change a business name in North Dakota. 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 North Dakota

Rebranding: A business may want to change its name in North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota changes ownership, the new owners might change the business name.

Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in North Dakota

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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota.
Name availability: Search the North Dakota 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 North Dakota.
Customer perception and loyalty: Consider how your current customers in North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota.
Maintaining continuity: Consider maintaining continuity with your old name during the transition period and address any potential confusion among customers and clients in North Dakota.
Tax implications: Consult with a tax professional to understand any tax consequences or implications of changing your business name in North Dakota.
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 North Dakota

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

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

Once everything is arranged and checked, you can file the Amendment. You must amend North Dakota LLC Articles of Organization for LLC or amend North Dakota 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 North Dakota

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

Legal documents: North Dakota 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 North Dakota.
City/local registration: Some cities/local authorities in North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota. 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

How do I change my business name in North Dakota?

To change your business name in North Dakota, you must complete an Application for Name Change (Form LC-1350) and file it with the North Dakota Secretary of State.

What forms do I need to complete to change my business name in North Dakota?

To change your business name in North Dakota, you will need to complete an Application for Name Change (Form LC-1350) and file it with the North Dakota Secretary of State.

Is there a fee to change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes, there is a filing fee of $40 to change your business name in North Dakota.

How long does it take to change my business name in North Dakota?

It typically takes 3-4 weeks for the North Dakota Secretary of State to process a business name change.

What are the requirements to change my business name in North Dakota?

The North Dakota Secretary of State requires that the new business name must not be the same as or deceptively similar to the name of an existing corporation or limited liability company, must not be a name prohibited by law, and must contain certain words in the legal name.

Where do I file my business name change in North Dakota?

You must file your business name change with the North Dakota Secretary of State.

Is there a specific format for the business name I must use in North Dakota?

Yes, the North Dakota Secretary of State requires that the legal name of the business must include one of the following words or abbreviations

Can I use my new business name before filing with the North Dakota Secretary of State?

No, you cannot begin using your new business name until it has been approved by the North Dakota Secretary of State.

Do I need to update my business registration with North Dakota if I change my business name?

Yes, you will need to update your business registration with the North Dakota Secretary of State after filing the name change.

Do I need to change my business name on my tax returns if I change it in North Dakota?

Yes, you will need to make sure to update your business name on all tax returns filed with the North Dakota Tax Commissioner after the business name change.

Do I need to update my business name on my website if I change it in North Dakota?

Yes, you will need to make sure to update your business name on all websites and other online materials associated with your business after the business name change.

Do I need to update my business name with any other governmental agencies in North Dakota if I change it?

Yes, you may need to update your business name with other North Dakota state agencies, such as the North Dakota Department of Labor, depending on the type of business you are operating.

Do I need to update my business name with North Dakota banks if I change it?

Yes, you will need to update your business name with any banks where you have accounts in North Dakota.

Do I need to update my business name on any business licenses I have in North Dakota?

Yes, you will need to make sure to update your business name on all business licenses issued by North Dakota state agencies after the business name change.

What are the steps for changing a business name in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, changing your business name involves filing an amendment to your Articles of Incorporation with the North Dakota Secretary of State’s Office. You will need to submit the completed form along with applicable fees. Additionally, you may need to notify other government entities, such as the IRS and the North Dakota Department of Revenue.

Can I keep my business name if I move to North Dakota?

No. In North Dakota, you must file a new Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State’s office if you wish to change the business name.

How much does it cost to change my business name in North Dakota?

It costs $20 to file an Amendment to Articles of Incorporation with the North Dakota Secretary of State’s Office. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with other governmental entities, like the IRS and the North Dakota Department of Revenue.

Is there a timeframe for changing my business name in North Dakota?

Once you have filled out and filed the Amendment to Articles of Incorporation with the North Dakota Secretary of State, the name change should be effective within 10 business days.

Are there any restrictions on changing my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. In North Dakota, the new business name must include the words “corporation,” “incorporated,” “company,” or “limited” or an abbreviation of one of these words. Additionally, the name must be distinguishable from the names of other businesses on file with the North Dakota Secretary of State.

How do I notify other government entities if I change my business name in North Dakota?

You may need to notify other government entities, such as the IRS and the North Dakota Department of Revenue, if you change your business name. Contact these entities directly to find out what forms and fees are required.

Do I need to change my business licenses or permits if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You may need to update your licenses or permits with the North Dakota Department of Revenue or other government entities. Contact these entities directly to find out what forms and fees are required.

Can I change my business name more than once in North Dakota?

Yes. You can file an Amendment to Articles of Incorporation with the North Dakota Secretary of State as many times as you need to. However, there may be additional fees associated with changing the business name more than once.

Do I need to update my DBA if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You must update your DBA with the North Dakota Secretary of State if you change your business name.

Do I need to update my business logo if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You may wish to update your business logo to reflect the new name.

Do I need to update my website if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. If you have a website, you should update it to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update my business cards and other promotional materials if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your business cards and other promotional materials to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update my bank accounts and other financial accounts if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your bank accounts and other financial accounts to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update my insurance policies if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your insurance policies to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update contracts and other legal documents if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your contracts and other legal documents to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update my social media accounts if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your social media accounts to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update my email accounts if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your email accounts to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update my domain name if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your domain name to reflect the new business name.

Do I need to update my business phone number if I change my business name in North Dakota?

Yes. You should update your business phone number to reflect the new business name.

Why North Dakota Change Business Name is So Important

When North Dakota decided to change its business name, the decision was not taken lightly. The rebranding effort was a strategic move aimed at modernizing the state’s image and aligning its business practices with the evolving demands of the global market. By selecting a new name that accurately represents the values and identity of North Dakota, the state not only refreshed its image but also positioned itself as a forward-thinking and innovative destination for businesses and investors.

One of the key reasons why the name change was so important for North Dakota lies in the power of perception. A company’s name is much more than just a combination of words – it is a powerful tool that can shape how consumers and investors perceive the business. A well-chosen name can convey a sense of trust, reliability, and expertise, while a poorly selected name can trigger doubt and confusion among potential customers.

In the case of North Dakota, the decision to change its business name signals a commitment to staying relevant and competitive in an ever-changing market. By rebranding itself with a name that reflects its core values and strengths, the state is effectively positioning itself as a leader in its industry and a desirable partner for businesses looking to expand or relocate.

Furthermore, a name change can have a significant impact on a company’s internal culture and employee morale. A strong and resonant name can instill a sense of pride and unity among employees, fostering a positive work environment and a shared sense of purpose. By rebranding itself with a new name, North Dakota is not only signaling its commitment to economic growth and development but also rallying its workforce around a common vision for the future.

Another crucial aspect of a name change is its impact on brand recognition and recall. A strong and memorable name is essential for attracting and retaining customers in today’s cluttered marketplace. By choosing a new name that is distinctive, clear, and appealing, North Dakota is enhancing its visibility and resonance with target audiences, ultimately driving customer engagement and loyalty.

In conclusion, the decision to change its business name holds significant implications for North Dakota’s reputation, competitiveness, and overall success in the global market. By selecting a name that accurately reflects its values, strengths, and aspirations, the state is not only revitalizing its brand image but also positioning itself for sustained growth and prosperity in the years to come. As businesses continue to adapt to shifting market dynamics and customer preferences, the importance of a well-chosen name in shaping perceptions, guiding decision-making, and driving success cannot be ignored.

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