What is A Iowa Amendment?
An amendment is a process that you have to go through in case you make changes to the information that you have reported on your Articles of Incorporation/Organization. To formalize these changes, you have to submit formal paperwork to the state.
Reasons Why You Need To File An Amendment
Iowa requires all businesses to file an amendment if they make changes that will affect the formal entity structure of the business. Generally, there are five common reasons that may need an amendment.
A. Changing The Company Name –
- LLCs
If an LLC decides to operate under a new name, it has to undergo a legal process. To do this, your company has to file an amendment. It is also necessary to update all the records of your LLC with the state and government.
- Corporations
There are cases when corporations end up having to use a new name. No matter what the purpose of the change is, you will have to go through the amendment process. Your corporation also has to update the company name on all its records with the state and government.
B. Changing Members Of The Business –
- LLCs
Sometimes, when an LLC grows, its members and/or managers change. Since your Articles of Organization contains a list of all members and managers, as well as their contact information and addresses, you will have to inform the state of any changes through an amendment.
- Corporations
Corporations in Iowa listed the names of their officers and directors, as well as their contact information and addresses, in the Articles of Incorporation. The record of the state should be updated. You will have to report any changes to these pieces of information by filing an amendment.
C. Changing Address Related To The Business –
- LLCs
You may have to move your office location once your business starts growing. When that time comes, you have to make sure that the state is well-informed by filing an amendment. Keep it up to date about your LLC’s operating address and registered office. Doing this will ensure that you will receive all the necessary documents addressed to the company.
- Corporations
Filing an amendment will update the records of the state about your corporation. You will also have the assurance that you will receive all documents addressed to the company, such as those related to your filing and tax obligations. So, make sure the state knows it if you change your operating address and registered office.
D. Changing Contact Information –
- LLCs
You have to always keep the state updated about the contact information of your LLC. This way, it can easily reach your company. Generally, the state sends legal documents to the registered agent of your company. Report any changes on the pieces of information about the LLC’s registered agent through an amendment.
- Corporations
If there are changes in the contact information of your Iowa corporation, make sure you let the state know. This way, the state can easily access your company in case it has legal queries or concerns. Since the point of contact of the state with your corporation is the registered agent, you will have to inform them of any changes on the contact details of the agent. You can do that through an amendment.
E. Changing The Number Of Shares That A Corporation Is Authorized To Issue – Since LLCs cannot issue stock, they do not have to think about this process. However, corporations have to follow this rule. If your company decides to make changes to its authorized stock, you will have to inform the state about the plan. Filing an amendment will legalize the changing of the number of shares that your corporation is allowed to sell.
What Is Needed To File An Amendment?
LLC
The state of Iowa does not have readily available forms for amendment of the Certificate of Organization. So your LLC has to draft your own. You will have to file the amendment with the Business Services of the Secretary of State by mail, fax, or in person. The filing comes with a $50 fee.
Corporation
The same thing applies to corporations. Since Iowa does not have forms for amendment, your company will have to draft one. Submit the document by mail, fax, or in person to the Business Services of the Secretary of State. It also comes with a $50 filing fee.
How Can DoMyLLC Assist With Streamlining The Process?
Making changes to a company’s formation documents require proper completion and filing of a Iowa amendment. Depending on the changes, you may also have to take care of other documents. To help ease the process, you can turn to a reliable document filing company like DoMyLLC. Our team can provide support and assistance to Iowa business owners who need help in handling formalities to ensure compliance with the state.
Iowa Amendment FAQs
Is There A Filing Fee For The Amendment?
If you decide to file for an amendment, your company will have to pay the $50 filing fee.
What Information Is Required For The Articles Of Amendment?
LLCs have to provide the following information:
- Company name
- The organization date
- A list of all articles to amend
- Signature of a member, manager, or Attorney-in-Fact
Corporations have to provide the following information:
- Company name
- Exact text of the amendments
- Provisions for implementing the amendments
- Manner of approval
How Long Does It Take The State To Process The Amendment?
The state needs approximately 1-3 business days to review and process the amendment applications. If you file in person, you can request them to process your document while you wait.
Do You Receive A Copy Of The Certified Amendment From The State?
The Secretary of State will return the processed amendment document to your company by mail. However, you can request the state to use another method if you pay an additional fee.
Iowa Business Resources
Iowa Office of Secretary of State
Phone:
(515) 281-5204
Address:
Office of the Secretary of State
First Floor, Lucas Building 321 E. 12th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319
If you’re interested in more info on filing an amendment, call 888-366-9552.