To change the name of a company registered in Delaware, you’ll need to contact the Delaware Division of Corporations. Here’s what you need to know:
Can I change my business name in Delaware?
Yes. Any business registered with the Delaware Division of Corporations may change its name by filing a certificate of amendment. Before you change your name at the state level, however, you must first go through the proper protocols within your company.
- Corporations – Hold a board meeting to discuss, vote on, and officially adopt a new company name.
- LLCs – Get approval from each LLC member and adopt a member resolution approving the new company name.
Voting procedures and internal amendment processes will differ from company to company, so make sure you follow the rules outlined in your corporate bylaws or LLC operating agreement.
Why do I have to file a DE Certificate of Amendment?
You have to file a certificate of amendment with the Delaware Division of Corporations to officially change any information about your company filed at the state level, as the state needs to keep accurate records of all active businesses. A certificate of amendment is really just a fancy way of saying “edit”—you’re essentially filing an amendment to edit your formation documents with the state.
How do I file a DE Certificate of Amendment?
To file a certificate of amendment for your Delaware business, you’ll have to find the amendment form that pertains to your business. First, head to the Division of Corporation’s Forms by Entity Type page, then select your entity type (i.e. domestic corporation, foreign corporation, LLC, LLP, LP) and from there select the “amendment” document.
That said, these forms are merely a template. While they should suit your needs for changing the name of your business, you may wish to draft your own amendment document if the state’s form isn’t adequate. You can also use Northwest’s attorney drafted templates: LLC Articles of Amendment or Corporation Articles of Amendment.
For more information about filing an amendment in Delaware, see our page: How to File an Amendment for a Delaware Corporation and How to File a Delaware LLC Amendment.
How much does it cost to file a DE Certificate of Amendment?
Filing fees range from $100 to $500, though most entities are charged a standard $200 to file a certificate of amendment. Here’s a cost breakdown by entity type:
- Stock corporation: $194 (plus $9 for each additional page)
- Nonstock corporation: $194 (plus $9 for each additional page)
- Exempt corporation: $164 (plus $9 for each additional page)
- Foreign corporation: $100 (for name change only)
- LLC: $200
- Foreign LLC: $200
- Limited liability partnership: $200
- Limited partnership: $200
- Partnership: $200
- Statutory trust: $500