Notify the IRS of your business name change in minutes. Fill in your details below and generate a ready-to-mail letter — client-side only, no data stored.
Free foreverNo accountData stays in browserPrint-ready output
1
Enter your details
Old name, new name, EIN, and the date your state approved the change.
2
Generate the letter
Get a properly formatted, IRS-ready letter with all required fields.
3
Print, sign & mail
Sign in ink, send via certified mail to your IRS service center.
Letter ready — review, then print or download
Where to mail: Send to the IRS service center where you file your federal tax return.
If you have already filed for the current year, you may mail directly to
Internal Revenue Service, Cincinnati, OH 45999.
Use certified mail with return receipt requested — keep your receipt as proof.
How to notify the IRS of a business name change
The IRS does not update business name records automatically — you must send a written notification. The most common approach is a signed letter that states your old name, new name, EIN, and the effective date of the change approved by your state.
LLCs and Partnerships
LLCs and partnerships cannot report a name change by checking a box on their return. A separate signed letter to the IRS is required. This tool generates that letter. The IRS will update its records once it receives and processes the letter — typically within 4–6 weeks.
Corporations (C-Corp and S-Corp)
Corporations can report a name change by checking the "Name change" box on Form 1120 or Form 1120-S and attaching a copy of the state-approved amendment to their return. A separate letter also works — use this tool if you prefer that approach or need to notify the IRS outside of filing season.
What stays the same after a name change
A name change does not affect your EIN, tax classification, filing obligations, or existing tax elections. Your business continues to file and pay under the same EIN. Update your bank, state tax authority, business licenses, and contracts separately — this letter only covers the federal IRS record.
One thing to confirm before you mail
The name change must already be approved by your state (Secretary of State or equivalent) before you notify the IRS. The IRS update follows the state approval — you cannot notify the IRS of a change that has not yet been accepted at the state level.
Frequently asked questions
How do I notify the IRS of a business name change?
+
Send a signed letter to the IRS that includes your EIN, your old legal business name, your new legal business name, and the effective date of the change. For LLCs and partnerships, a separate letter is required. Corporations can also check the "Name change" box on Form 1120 or 1120-S and attach a copy of the amended state filing.
Where do I mail the IRS business name change letter?
+
Mail to the IRS service center where you file your federal return. If you have already filed your return for the current year, mail to: Internal Revenue Service, Cincinnati, OH 45999. Send via certified mail with return receipt requested and keep your receipt as proof of delivery.
Do I need a new EIN after a business name change?
+
No. A business name change does not require a new Employer Identification Number. Your EIN stays the same. You only need a new EIN if the ownership structure or entity type fundamentally changes — for example, if a sole proprietorship incorporates, or if an LLC converts to a corporation.
Who must sign the IRS name change letter?
+
The letter must be signed by a current principal officer, general partner, grantor, owner, or trustee — someone who is authorized to act on behalf of the entity. For an LLC, this is typically the managing member or manager. For a corporation, a principal officer such as the president or CEO.
Do I need to update my state records for a business name change?
+
Yes. You must first get the name change approved by your state (typically through the Secretary of State's office) before notifying the IRS. This letter addresses only the federal IRS record. Update your state tax authority, bank accounts, business licenses, and any contracts or registrations separately.
How long does it take for the IRS to update its records?
+
The IRS typically processes business name change notifications within 4 to 6 weeks of receipt. You will generally not receive a confirmation letter. Keep your certified mail receipt as proof of delivery and retain a copy of the letter for your business records.
General information only — not legal or tax advice.
This tool generates a letter based on the information you enter. The letter follows general IRS guidance for business name change notifications, but requirements can vary by entity type, circumstance, and IRS service center. Confirm the correct procedure and mailing address for your specific situation with a qualified CPA, tax attorney, or the IRS directly (Business & Specialty Tax Line: 1-800-829-4933) before mailing. Full disclaimer · Privacy · Terms
TheLLCWiki
Before you continue
TheLLCWiki provides free guides and tools for US small business owners. All content is for general informational purposes only — not legal, tax, or accounting advice. No professional relationship is created by using this site.