What business changes can be reported in an Articles of Amendment form?

Common changes to file for an amendment with the secretary of state are: Changes to the company name Updates to the registered agent's contact information New company business address Director or member information Number of authorized shares Change in business activities Most items that are listed on the original articles can be changed by filing an amendment other than the filing date, incorporator or organizer. You cannot change a registered agent through an Articles of Amendment.

What information is required to file an Articles of Amendment?

The basic information needed includes: Your current entity name The name you wish to change it to (if applicable) The text of the new amendments that you are adopting The date on which each amendment was adopted (some states require member or board of directors voting to pass these amendments), if there is a delay in the date as to when the amendment will be adopted and the name(s) and address(es) of the individual(s) who are submitting this document to be delivered for filing (many states require the signatures of the president and secretary of your company).

Why do I need to file an Articles of Amendment?

Information in the articles of organization is a matter of public record, so LLCs need to make sure that their Articles of Organization on file list the correct information, including company name, owners and managers of the company. If a dispute arises involving ownership, the information contained in the company's Articles of Organization will be used to prove who owns the company. If a name dispute arises with another company, this also ensures your legal rights.

How do I submit my Articles of Amendment?

These forms need to either be mailed to your secretary of state or delivered in person to their office. Some states do offer online forms, but as in Maryland, online forms are considered expedited and can cost an additional fee. However, Incfile can take care of filing your Articles of Amendment for you.

How long does it take to file Articles of Amendment?

The filing time is dependent on the governing state agency and varies by state. For example, in California the process takes over eight weeks. Many states do offered expedited service for an additional fee.

What will I receive when the Articles of Amendment are filed?

The governing state agency will typically return a copy of the filed articles to Incfile, which are then mailed to our customers.

File Articles of Amendment: Change an LLC Name or Address

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What Are Articles of Amendment?

Articles of Amendment are filed when a company makes a significant change to their Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization that were created when the business first formed.

As an organization, you’re always evolving, shifting and improving. This means you’ll inevitably need to change some of the important parameters of your business. That’s where Articles of Amendment come in.

When Do I Need to File Articles of Amendment?

You need to file Articles of Amendment with your Secretary of State when your LLC, C Corp, S Corp or Nonprofit changes or modifies its:

Business address
Business name
Stated business activities
Registered Agent
Member information
Number of authorized shares

Why Is It Important to File?

Not keeping your business’s information up-to-date may result in fines and penalties.

You need to let the state know things have changed so that you remain in good standing. Otherwise, you risk being seen as negligent, damaging your reputation.

For practical purposes, the state needs to know who to send official correspondence and legal notices to. For this reason, keeping information updated, such as your Registered Agent, is key.

1

Determine the Correct Form Needed

This is typically provided by your state. Make sure you can’t file a
cheaper or simpler form. For example, some states have a
separate form solely for changing your Registered Agent that
often requires a lower fee than Articles of Amendment. Research
your state’s requirements before beginning.
2

Fill Out the Amendment Form

A standard form includes your business name, state, date, article
number(s) being amended, a written statement that the article is
being amended, the amendment itself and a statement that all
other articles remain in effect. You’ll also need signatures from
members. Failing to provide all the necessary info could mean
your amendment is denied.
3

Submit the Form to the State and Pay the Filing Fee

Depending on the state, this may be done online or delivered in
person. It typically costs $100-$200 — but if you’re a nonprofit
corporation, the fee is often lower.
4

File Restated Articles of Organization or Incorporation

Once the Articles of Amendment are submitted, you may want
to file restated Articles of Organization that reflect these new
changes. While it’s not a requirement, it helps consolidate your
documents so everything’s streamlined.

Amendment

Entity Type

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State of Foreign Qualification

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How Long Does It Take to Change a Company Name?

The filing time for Articles of Amendment typically takes four to six weeks, depending on the governing state agency. For example, in California, the process takes over eight weeks. In Texas, it may take just three to five business days. Many states offer expedited service for an additional fee.

For the purpose of federal taxes, the IRS typically takes about six to eight weeks to register a change of business name.

How Do I File Out-of-State Articles of Amendment?

If you’re filing an amendment for a business that’s not in your home state, you’ll need to file a Foreign Amendment. These will require additional documentation by your state, including a Certificate of Good Standing.

How Much Does It Cost to File Articles of Amendment?

Our service fee to file Articles of Amendment is $99, so your cost will be $99 + the fee in your state. State feels typically are around $100-$200, but if you're a nonprofit, the fee is often lower.

To review the fee in your state, select the state and entity type above.

Some states also offer expedited filing, which is an additional fee.

Do I Need to Consult a Lawyer When Filing?

An attorney isn’t necessary to file an amendment. That said, if you’re ever faced with a confusing business situation, it’s never a bad idea to consult a trusted legal professional to ensure you’re making the most educated decision you can.

What Will I Receive When the Articles Are Filed?

You’ll receive a copy of the articles once they’re filed. If you file with us, the governing state agency will return a copy to us. Then we’ll mail it to you for your records.

File Articles of Amendment

Here’s how to change your LLC’s name, address or member information.

What Are Articles of Amendment?

When Do I Need to File Articles of Amendment?

Why Is It Important to File?

How to File Articles of Amendment

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Common Questions About Filing Articles of Amendment

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