IRS EIN Name Change: How to Update Your Business Name Correctly
Learn how to update your business name with the IRS. Find out if you need a new EIN, the required forms, and why EIN name change online isn't an option. 5 min read updated on February 07, 2025
Key Takeaways:
- Most business name changes do not require a new EIN, but the IRS must be informed.
- If restructuring (e.g., changing from an LLC to a corporation), a new EIN may be required.
- You can update your business name with the IRS through a tax return form or by submitting a letter.
- Different forms apply based on business structure: Form 1065 (partnerships), Form 1120 (corporations), Form 1120S (S corporations).
- Additional steps include updating business records, notifying relevant agencies, and rebranding efforts.
- The IRS does not allow an EIN name change online; requests must be mailed or submitted with a tax return.
Changing Your Business's Name with the IRS: An Overview
If conducting an IRS business name change, you should make sure that everyone knows about it, including customers, wholesalers, and the IRS.
Most of the time, changing the name of your business with the IRS doesn't mean you need a new EIN or Employer Identification Number. However, you'll need to change the name associated with the EIN.
You should get a new EIN if your LLC's name change is due to a change in business organization. For example, you could convert your company from a corporation to an LLC. For a new Employer Identification Number, apply online through the IRS's EIN Assistant. If you just got an EIN for your business or changed it recently and you haven't filed any taxes with the IRS, you should send your request to IRS-Stop 343G, Cincinnati, OH 45999.
When you're filing your tax return for the current year, you can change the name of your business with the IRS by checking the box and adding your company's new information on the correct form. If you're operating a partnership or you're filing a current year Return of Partnership Income form, it's Line 3 G, Form 1065. Provide the new name of your business, and get a company officer to sign the form. If you're not filing Form 1065, write a letter to the processing center that handled your tax return that's signed by one of the partners.
If your business is a corporation, use Form 1120 or Form 1120S. On Form 1120, the name change box is on page 1, Line E, box 3. The same box is on page 1, Line H, Box 2 for Form 1120S. You should write the new name of your company in Section A, and there's no need to include your business's previous name. For an LLC or a corporation, you should also file a Certificate of Amendment with the country or state where it was formed to change its name.
When You Need a New EIN
Changing your business name does not always mean you need a new EIN. However, you will need one if:
- You switch your business structure (e.g., LLC to corporation).
- A partnership incorporates or is taken over by a single owner.
- A sole proprietorship becomes an LLC or corporation.
- A new entity is formed due to a merger or acquisition.
If your situation requires a new EIN, you can apply online through the IRS EIN Assistant.
Step by Step Instructions
To change the name of your business with the IRS, follow these steps:
- Use the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's trademark search tool to find out if the name you would like to use is already registered by someone else.
- If the name isn't being used, see if the domain name is available for your website. Even if you don't set up your site right away, you can reserve the domain name to keep competitors from using it. A .com address is best for a for-profit business, and .org is for nonprofit.
- Use the correct form to let your Secretary of State know about your company's name change. There's usually a fee for changing your business's official name.
- To change your business's name on any licenses or permits that, contact the issuing offices. You'll usually need to pay a fee to change federal, state, city, or county permits or licenses.
- Notify the IRS, and remember that the requirements vary for different types of businesses.
- Update all the documents for your business.
- Change your logo and change signs, your website, business cards, employee uniforms, and other forms of branding to match well with your company's new name.
- Ask your website administrator to redirect visitors to your previous website to your new URL.
- Use email, paper mail, TV, radio ads, and other forms of advertisements to let your customers and everyone else you do business with know that the name of your company has changed. That way, you won't have to start from the beginning to build your brand.
Additional Agencies to Notify When Changing Your Business Name
Aside from updating the IRS, you must also notify several other agencies and business partners about your name change:
- State Business Filing Office – File a Certificate of Amendment with your state.
- Banking and Financial Institutions – Update your business accounts, credit cards, and loan records.
- Vendors and Suppliers – Ensure they have your new name for billing and contracts.
- Licensing and Permits – Update all federal, state, and local business permits.
- DUNS Number – If your business has a Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) number, update it accordingly.
Failing to notify the necessary agencies can cause legal and financial complications.
Changing Your Business Name for an EIN
The EIN or Employer Identification Number is a common way to identify businesses, and you should keep the information for it up to date, especially if you change your company's name. There's no way to update the name associated with your EIN electronically. There's also no official form, so you'll need to write a letter. Fortunately, changing the name of your business for your EIN is free and simple, even without a way to do it online.
How to Notify the IRS of Your EIN Name Change
The IRS does not allow EIN name change online, meaning you must submit a request by mail or with your tax return. The method depends on your business type:
- Sole Proprietorships & Individuals – Send a signed letter to the IRS requesting the change.
- Corporations & LLCs – Check the name change box on Form 1120 or 1120S.
- Partnerships – Update business name information on Form 1065.
If you have not yet filed a tax return, send a letter to the IRS address where you file your return. Ensure the letter is signed by an authorized representative.
FAQs
1. Can I change my EIN name online?
No, the IRS does not allow EIN name changes online. You must submit a tax return with an updated name or send a request by mail.
2. How long does it take for the IRS to update my business name?
Processing time varies, but it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks after submitting a name change request.
3. Do I need to notify the IRS if my business address changes?
Yes, you should file Form 8822-B to update your business address with the IRS.
4. Will my EIN change if I update my business name?
No, your EIN remains the same unless you change your business structure, which may require a new EIN.
5. What happens if I don’t update my business name with the IRS?
Failure to update your business name with the IRS can cause issues with tax filings, banking, and compliance with legal requirements.
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