How to Change Business Name in Oklahoma

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 Oklahoma, popularly known as The Sooner 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 Oklahoma, you must follow specific regulations the Oklahoma state government sets. The current population of the so-called The Sooner State is 4,021,753. Changing the name of your existing business in any city (especially in the capital, Oklahoma City) 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 Oklahoma involves three major steps. In this article, I have shared how to change a business name in Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma
- Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in Oklahoma
How to Change a Business Name in Oklahoma
Things to do After Filing the Oklahoma Amendment
FAQs

Reasons to Change a Business Name in Oklahoma

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

Things to Consider Before Changing Your Business Name in Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

Legal documents: Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma.
City/local registration: Some cities/local authorities in Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma. 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 go about changing my business name in Oklahoma?

To change the name of your business in Oklahoma, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. You may submit the form online, by mail, or in person at the Secretary of State’s office.

Is there a fee to file a name change in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a fee of $25 to file a Certificate of Assumed Name in Oklahoma.

What information do I need to provide to change my business name in Oklahoma?

When filing a Certificate of Assumed Name, you must provide your business’s current name, the new name you wish to use, the principal address of the business, and the names and addresses of all owners of the business.

Is there a waiting period for a business name change in Oklahoma?

No, the Certificate of Assumed Name is processed immediately. There is no waiting period.

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

You may need to file additional documents depending on the type of business you operate. For example, LLCs and Corporations must file an Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation/Organization with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

Do I need to notify other agencies when I change my business name in Oklahoma?

Yes, you may need to notify other agencies in Oklahoma, such as the IRS, the Oklahoma Tax Commission, and the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.

What if I need to change my business name in Oklahoma but I am not located in Oklahoma?

You may still file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. You must provide the required information and the applicable fee.

What happens if I don’t officially change my business name in Oklahoma?

If you do not officially change your business name in Oklahoma, you may face legal consequences. It is important to file the necessary paperwork and pay the applicable fees to ensure that your name change is properly documented.

How long does a business name change in Oklahoma remain in effect?

A business name change in Oklahoma remains in effect for a period of five years. To maintain the name, you must renew the Certificate of Assumed Name prior to the expiration date.

How do I renew my business name change in Oklahoma?

To renew a business name change in Oklahoma, you must submit a renewal form and the applicable fee to the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

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

Yes, you must update your business license with your new business name. Depending on the type of license you hold, you may also need to update other documents with the new name.

Is a business name change in Oklahoma subject to public disclosure?

Yes, under the Oklahoma Open Records Act, documents filed with the Oklahoma Secretary of State, including Certificates of Assumed Name, are subject to public disclosure.

What if I want to change the name of my LLC in Oklahoma?

To change the name of your LLC in Oklahoma, you must file an Amendment to the Articles of Organization with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

Is there a fee to change the name of an LLC in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a fee of $25 to file an Amendment to the Articles of Organization in Oklahoma.

What if I want to change the name of my corporation in Oklahoma?

To change the name of your corporation in Oklahoma, you must file an Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

Is there a fee to change the name of a corporation in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a fee of $25 to file an Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation in Oklahoma.

What if I want to change my business name and address in Oklahoma?

To change both your business name and address in Oklahoma, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

Is there a fee to change my business name and address in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a fee of $25 to file a Certificate of Assumed Name in Oklahoma.

Do I need to notify the IRS when I change my business name in Oklahoma?

Yes, you must notify the IRS when you change the name of your business in Oklahoma. You may need to apply for a new employer identification number (EIN) and update your business’s records with the IRS.

Do I need to notify the Oklahoma Tax Commission when I change my business name in Oklahoma?

Yes, you must notify the Oklahoma Tax Commission when you change the name of your business in Oklahoma. You may need to update your business’s records with the Commission.

Do I need to notify the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission when I change my business name in Oklahoma?

Yes, you must notify the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission when you change the name of your business in Oklahoma. You may need to update your business’s records with the Commission.

Do I need to update my business contracts when I change my business name in Oklahoma?

Yes, you must update any contracts and agreements associated with your business when you change the name of your business in Oklahoma.

What if I change the name of my business in Oklahoma but I don’t like the new name?

You may file a new Certificate of Assumed Name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State and choose a different name. There is a fee of $25 to file a new Certificate of Assumed Name.

Do I need to file a new Certificate of Assumed Name if I just want to change the spelling of my business name in Oklahoma?

Yes, you must file a new Certificate of Assumed Name if you wish to change the spelling of your business name in Oklahoma. There is a fee of $25 to file a new Certificate of Assumed Name.

What if I need to make changes to my Certificate of Assumed Name after it has been filed in Oklahoma?

You must submit an amendment to the Certificate of Assumed Name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. There is a fee of $25 to file an amendment.

What is required to change a business name in Oklahoma?

To change a business name in Oklahoma, you must file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

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

The fee to change a business name in Oklahoma is $25.

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

The process of changing a business name in Oklahoma usually takes between 3 and 5 business days, depending on how quickly the filing is processed.

Is it necessary to create a new business entity when changing the name of an Oklahoma business?

No, it is not necessary to create a new business entity when changing the name of an Oklahoma business.

Do I need to register a new domain name when changing the name of an Oklahoma business?

Yes, it is recommended that you register a new domain name when changing the name of an Oklahoma business.

How do I change the name of an Oklahoma business on my bank accounts and other accounts?

You will need to contact your bank and other accounts to update the business name and provide them with the new Certificate of Assumed Name.

Is it necessary to notify the Oklahoma Tax Commission when changing the name of an Oklahoma business?

Yes, it is recommended that you notify the Oklahoma Tax Commission when changing the name of an Oklahoma business.

What paperwork is needed when changing the name of an Oklahoma business?

The paperwork required when changing the name of an Oklahoma business includes a Certificate of Assumed Name, a Statement of Identity, and a copy of the Assumed Name Certificate.

Do I need to update my business license when changing the name of an Oklahoma business?

Yes, it is necessary to update your business license when changing the name of an Oklahoma business.

Why Oklahoma Change Business Name is So Important

The name of a business is more than just a label; it is the foundation of its identity. Names have the power to evoke specific emotions, perceptions, and associations in the minds of consumers. When a name is offensive or disrespectful, it can alienate potential customers and tarnish a company’s image. In today’s socially conscious world, consumers are increasingly choosing to support businesses that align with their values and beliefs. By changing their name, the Oklahoma-based company is not only demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and diversity but also signaling to consumers that they are aware of and responsive to changing societal norms.

Furthermore, a name change can also have a positive impact on employee morale and retention. Employees want to work for companies that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. When a business takes steps to address problematic aspects of its brand, it sends a message to employees that their voices are heard and valued. This, in turn, can lead to higher job satisfaction, productivity, and long-term loyalty.

In addition to the internal and external benefits of a name change, there is also a legal and ethical imperative for businesses to ensure that their branding is respectful and compliant with applicable laws and regulations. The Oklahoma-based company’s decision to change its name reflects a commitment to ethical business practices and compliance with anti-discrimination laws.

Change can be challenging, especially when it involves something as foundational as a company’s name. However, companies must be willing to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs and expectations of their employees and consumers. In the case of the Oklahoma-based company, the decision to change its name is a positive step towards fostering a more inclusive and respectful business environment.

In conclusion, while a name change may seem like a small and insignificant gesture, it can have a significant impact on a company’s brand, reputation, and relationships with employees and consumers. By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion in its branding, the Oklahoma-based company is not only setting itself up for future success but also sending a powerful message about the importance of adapting to a changing world.

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