LLC Reinstatement

Getting a message pop-up that says ‘payment failed’ on the screen during your LLC formation is extremely frustrating. The aftereffect of payment failure is even scarier. It delays your plans, creates confusion, and takes up your time. If your payment is cancelled or fails during LLC formation, you might have to start over!

When you start an LLC (limited liability company) by filing it online, the payment page is the most important and risky. Your payment may or may not be successful at the end of the registration process. But the good news is, you don’t have to keep stressing over it — there is a solution, and here’s how to fix it when payment fails during formation.

Key Takeaways

• Payment failures are common and usually easy to fix.
• A failed payment doesn’t cancel your transaction automatically.
• Small technical issues can cause temporary declines.
• Alternative payment options are available if online payment fails.

How to Fix Payment Failure Issue

Payment failure refers to a situation where a financial transaction does not go through successfully, and the payment is not processed as intended. When a payment process fails, it means the merchant or recipient did not receive the indicated amount.

When there is a problem, there is always a solution. Here are some simple actions you can take to resolve a failed payment:

Double-check your information before resubmitting payment

Always check if the information is given correctly. From the account number to the correct spelling of names, addresses, and other information, everything should align with the bank details. Double-check before you resubmit the payment option.

Verify that sufficient funds are available or that the credit limit has not yet been reached

This is very crucial. Make sure that the account you are using to make the payment is enough funded. Sometimes, not having enough funds (less than the minimum required balance) stops the payment. Check before you hit the ‘payment’ button.

Make sure the payment method you’re using is accepted

There can be multiple ways to make the payment. Choose carefully, as some might not be available with your account or bank. For example, in some cases, the only payment method is credit cards. If you don’t own one, you might not be able to make the payment successfully. Choose the payment method carefully before proceeding to the final payment step.

Reload the system or website, wait a few minutes, and try the transaction again

Often, government sites crash before you complete the final step of LLC registration. If you face a similar thing, please reload the system or website. If that does not work, wait for a few minutes, say 4-5, and try the transaction again.

These steps resolve most payment issues and usually don’t require further action. If your transaction goes through successfully, congrats! But if it still does not work, we have some alternative ways to fix it.

Alternative Solutions to Payment Failure

If payments continue to fail, you may need to exert extra effort and try these alternatives:

1. Use a different credit or debit card, or a digital wallet, preferably from another bank.

2. Switch to bank transfer, if available.

3. Avoid transactions during peak hours and try completing the payment later when the system is less busy.

4. Reach out to the customer support team for assistance.

Pro Tip

If online payment is still unsuccessful after trying all these steps, you may consider using money remittance centers such as Western Union, MoneyGram, and Ria Money Transfer. You may also consider mailing a check or money order, though this will take more time and effort.

Types of Payment Failure

A payment failure is a transaction error in which the attempt to pay was unsuccessful. Whether the transaction is declined, canceled, or left pending. There are three categories used to determine a transaction error:

1. Hard Declines
   – It means the payment is permanently rejected, and the decline is final. Even if you retry the same transaction multiple times, it will not be approved. This usually happens when there is a permanent or serious issue with your bank or digital wallet.

2. Soft Declines
   – It means the payment is temporarily rejected, and may be resolved by retrying the transaction. When this happens, there must be minor issues you had overlooked, such as insufficient funds, spending limits, or incomplete details.

3. Processing Errors
   – It means the payment is rejected due to technical issues or system errors during the transaction process. This usually happens during system outages, server issues, software bugs, or network timeouts. Payees are not responsible for this type of payment failure.

It is important to identify which type of payment failure your transaction falls under. Once you’ve determined the category, you may encounter the following transaction error codes:

• The card number is on a blacklist.

• Your ID or card number is invalid.

• There are certain restrictions in your security settings.

• You didn’t comply with the authentication request.

• Your bank or digital wallet is temporarily unavailable.

Common Causes of Payment Failures

Payment failures occur when a transaction cannot be completed, whether due to the bank, the card issuer, or the system itself. During formation, documents, orders, or applications remain pending until payment is successfully processed. Of course, successful payments come with a confirmation. So if there isn’t one, or if it shows a “payment failed” message, you really need to check what went wrong with your transaction.

• Card or billing information is incorrect, such as typos in card number, expiration date, CVV, or billing address.

• Funds are insufficient, or credit limits are reached.

• Payment method is unsupported.

• Errors in the system or website, particularly during maintenance, slow internet connections, or temporary outages.

If you have already identified the cause of payment failure from this list, then you’re ready to move on to the next section.

Important

There is always a reason behind every payment failure, so make sure to inspect the issue carefully to avoid unnecessary stress.

Conclusion

A payment failure during formation or transaction does not indicate a risk. Usually, it simply means there is an underlying issue that needs attention. Take a few extra minutes to thoroughly review transaction details and explore alternative payment options. Trust me, it will save you hours of frustration later on.

Feel free to leave a comment below if you have further clarifications, or you might wanna share how this article helped you. We’d be happy to hear from you!

Receiving international payments for your business is not an uncommon thing today. When you run a business, especially an online business, you can get your customers from anywhere in the world. Hence, you must be prepared and well-equipped to receive payments from your international clients. It is true that having clients beyond your geographical border is fun. But you must know that cross-border payments can come with compliance fees, currency conversion, and tax complexities.

If not properly managed, it can hinder cash flow, get you caught up in complex tax filings, and cause accounting headaches. On the contrary, if you know how to receive international payments and how to handle such accounts, you can smoothly continue growing your business across the globe.

Key Takeaways

• Common challenges businesses face when receiving international payments.
• Steps to receive money internationally in a complaint and efficient manner.
• Practical solutions to reduce fees, delays, and reporting issues.
• Types of international payment platforms to receive money safely.

How to Receive International Payments for Your Business

Receiving international payments requires a little homework to help you avoid complications. If you run a business in the USA, you must be aware of tax rules. When you accept payments from cross-border transactions for your business, make sure you have updated bank requirements beforehand. Before you start receiving money from across the globe, you need to know about these important steps.

Step 1Choosing the Right Payment Method

The first thing you must know is to choose the right payment platform. There are a few safe and secure channels to try. The following are the ones you can try for your international payment.

• PayPal: Widely used and trusted. It is used by many small business owners because it enables payments in over 200 markets. PayPal is good for merchants to accept various currencies, but one has to carefully consider fees as well as the exchange.

• WISE: Offers low-cost international transfers with real-time exchange rates, making it ideal for businesses receiving frequent cross-border payments. Wise often offers faster settlement compared to a traditional bank transfer.

• STRIPE: Provides robust global payment processing with multi-currency support and seamless integration for online platforms

• Traditional Bank Wire Transfer: This is one of the slowest and complicated ways to receive cross-border payments. If your business receives frequent payments from across the border, this option should be the last resort.

Step 2Complete Required Tax Verification

Receiving international payment for business is definitely different from receiving it for personal purposes. For business payments, it is required to get bank verifications and tax verifications before setting up a payment channel. For example, you must have a business account that allows receiving payments from foreign sources.

Complete required identity and tax verification, including submitting your business name, EIN or SSN, and banking details. Also, before setting up the payment channel, make sure you have all the taxes filed and the licenses to conduct business across borders and receive payments.

Step 3Set Currency and Conversion Preferences

The next step is to decide on the currency and conversion. When you conduct business overseas, you receive payments in different currencies. You can either keep them in their original form or convert them to U.S. dollars. This should be set when setting up your merchant account with the payment channel.

Payment channels usually have both options. You can either convert funds to U.S. dollars or keep them in their original currency.

Step 4Set up the Merchant/Business Account

The next step is to sign up with the payment channel or open a merchant/business account. Set up your account by entering your personal details such as name, email, company name, nature of business, phone number, and address.

Add your bank account(s) to receive international payments. If your business involves making payments to international accounts, then you must add your credit cards for future purchases. Before you set up your business account, review processing fees, exchange rates, and payout timelines.

Step 5Test Accounts With Small Transactions

As soon as your account is created and banks are connected, you can receive your cross-border payment. It is recommended to test it by receiving small amounts. Make small transactions to verify that the payment and the conversion are going smoothly. As soon as you start receiving your international payments without any hassle, you can then start receiving large amounts frequently.

Struggles of Receiving International Payments

U.S.-based businesses receiving international payments are subject to identity verification and compliance checks to comply with anti-money laundering and know-your-customer regulations. Payment platforms may require additional identity verification, tax information, or banking documentation before allowing international transactions. Failure to meet these requirements can result in delayed payouts or account restrictions.

Fees, Currency Conversion, and Delays

International transactions often include higher processing fees, foreign exchange markups, and intermediary bank charges, which can reduce overall revenue if not managed carefully. Additionally, International payments typically take longer to settle, which can affect cash flow planning. Different platforms handle these costs in varying ways:

• PayPal typically charges higher percentage-based fees for international transactions and applies a markup on exchange rates. Settlement time can vary depending on the customer’s country and currency.

• Wise is known for transparent, low-cost international transfers with real exchange rates and minimal hidden fees. Though direct customer payments may require setup through supported business accounts.

• Stripe offers competitive multi-currency processing with clear pricing, though there may still be additional fees for cross-border transactions and currency conversion. Settlement speed is generally reliable but may take a few business days depending on the destination bank.

• Traditional Banks are while secure, but they often charge flat fees plus conversion costs, and processing can take several business days, making this the slowest and often most expensive option for frequent international payments.

Quick Overview

International Payments largely depend on exchange rates. The final amount (U.S. Dollar) varies due to change in exchange rates.

Conclusion

Receiving payments internationally can unlock significant growth opportunities for businesses, but it requires careful planning and execution. By understanding compliance requirements, choosing the right payment methods, following structured steps, and maintaining accurate records, entrepreneurs can minimize risks and ensure smooth, easy international transactions. A well-managed international payment strategy ensures consistent cash flow and long-term business expansion.

Often, business owners encounter an issue after successfully filing their LLC. The LLC does not appear in the State business database. This can happen to anyone for many reasons. In most cases, people often assume that the LLC has vanished into thin air when, in reality, several reasons can prevent an LLC from appearing online.

Key Takeaways

• Each State maintains its own Official Business Registry.
• To check the existence of your LLC, you must visit your State’s Secretary of State (SOS) website.
• The rules and requirements for LLCs vary from state to state.
• There are a few ways to check your LLC’s name and status online.

What to Do if Your LLC Does Not Appear in the State Business Database

Now, this can be a big issue if your LLC does not appear in the State database. Each state database has its own list of LLCs formed in that year. If you are unable to find your LLC name there, then you might have a panic attack. However, instead of getting panicked, you can try the following alternative ways to find your LLC name in the list,

1. Contact State Directly

You have probably scanned the whole list of LLCs registered with the state on the Secretary of State website. Hence, you can now call or email the state business authority directly to inquire about your LLC’s name being removed from the database. Each state has its own contact process and timeline. Check out the Secretary of State websites from 50 states and the District of Columbia.

A friendly note: It is not always easy to call and have your issues resolved immediately. You will probably have to call 10 times to get to the desk and then to the main person or executive to escalate your issue. It might be the same for the email as well. However, calls are a faster way to contact the desk directly than emails.

2. National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS)

NASS is the “nation’s oldest, nonpartisan professional organization for public officials“. The main motto of this organization is to share information across states for various purposes. In case you don’t find your LLC’s name in the state database, you can try finding your LLC name through NASS.

You can also contact NASS by sending an email or reaching out to their support. NASS is a central point of all the state’s websites and information.

3. Online Presence of the LLC

In some cases, the online presence of the company is more effective than having the name listed in the State database. For example, if the company’s domain is active and its social media presence is frequent, it helps the LLC save its brand even when not listed in the State Business Database.

If your LLC is appearing on Google search or any leading search engine, along with a social media presence with a moderate or high number of engagements, you don’t need to worry about anything else.

Alternative Ways to Search Your LLC Name in the State Business Database

If you searched for your LLC by your name and it is not showing in the database, here are some other ways you can look for your LLC name,

• Check with the Department of State ID: Every business receives a DOS ID while filing their business/LLC. You can search with the ID if your name does not appear.

• Check with the assumed name ID: Another way to find your name is to use the assumed name ID. Provide your DBA or doing business as name ID and search for your LLC.

Reasons Why You Can’t See It

You may have typed the business name, entity number, agent name, owner or member name, or any other fields that may have identified your LLC., and still come up empty. Either the exact name does not appear in a pool of similar entries, or the LLC seems to have disappeared entirely.

The truth is that this can happen for a variety of reasons, administrative delays, compliance issues, or data mismatch. Let’s quickly unravel the mystery below:

1. LLC is Newly Formed or Modified

State Offices may not update the databases in real time, although all the required documents were submitted.

• For newly formed LLCs, the formation documents may still be pending, so it may take some time before the LLC appears in public records.

• For recently modified LLCs (e.g., change in address, registered agent, ownership, etc.), the updates may likewise take time for such changes to reflect in the database.

The usual processing time depends on the state where you file and whether you submit it online or by mail. In these situations, the best way is to check your filing receipt or confirmation email.

2. LLC Status Is Not In Active Status

• Active – It is currently in operation and in good standing.

• Inactive – It is still in existence but has missed certain filings or deadlines, or has temporarily paused operations.

• Dissolved – It formally ceased operations and is no longer allowed to conduct business; or

• Suspended/Forfeited – It has not complied with state regulations (e.g., unpaid fees or unfiled reports).

In other words, an LLC may have different statuses that affect its visibility online. When the LLC is anything other than ‘active’, state agencies may limit the information displayed in public business records or restrict the entity’s visibility in online searches. Worse, some completely remove them from the database, especially the old ones.

3. Search Mismatch

Save for some technical and bug issues that may have prevented you from verifying the LLC name, the issue lies in the method and source of your search. Let’s dig deeper:

• Wrong State: If you search the LLC in State X, but the same is registered in State Y, you probably won’t find any because LLCs in the US are state-level entities. However, if the LLC is registered in multiple states, it can appear in several databases. Some businesses choose to incorporate in states like Delaware or Nevada due to favorable legal and tax conditions, even if they operate elsewhere.

• Different Business Structure: Of course, the entity type matters. If you were looking for an LLC but such a business is registered as a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or another structure, it may show up somewhere else. Surprise!

• Punctuations and Name Variations: Even minor hyphens, commas, or abbreviations can throw off your search. For instance, your LLC might show up as “LL.C.” instead of “LLC,” or “Limited” could appear as “Ltd.” Try searching for different variations of the name. You can also see if the LLC has an associated domain by testing the extensions (.com). Why knows? You might be surprised that they were just that stylish!

• Doing Business As (DBAs) Names vs. Legal Entity Name: The legal entity name is what appears in the state business registry. If the business operates under a trade name or DBA, it may be registered separately and could appear in a different database, often at the county or city level. The same principle applies to trademarks, which are distinct from the official legal entity name.

• Unofficial Sites: Think of it as a road map. You have the freedom to navigate through social media, search engines, business lookup sites, business credit reports, name it! Even tidbits of information can be uncovered on certain alternative government sites, such as business license databases, trademarks, and patent office, or courts. But keep in mind, these sources are only secondary guides. They may be incomplete and outdated because they are not as official as the real thing. So remember: verify through official channels only.

Bottom Line

Indeed, a missing LLC in a public database can create practical challenges. For business owners, it may complicate routine transactions such as opening a business bank account, applying for permits, or entering into contracts. For third parties, the absence of an LLC in official records can create real-world difficulties in making an informed business decision, engaging in a business relationship, or conducting due diligence.

Finding a missing LLC is often a matter of knowing what to look for, where to look, and how to look. Do not panic yet if you can’t find any. Check the possible reasons. Nonetheless, if you hit the wall, then go straight to the traditional source—contact your state’s business office or visit in person.

Once you have established your limited liability company (LLC), approval is the most important thing. However, if there is something you need to change after the LLC approval comes, it is obviously worrisome. If you have the same question about how to correct articles after LLC approval by the state, there is an easy way to do that.

Every state has a rule to change or update your LLC information or Articles after the approval is received from the state. It is normal and very common for any LLC to file an amendment with the respective state to update the state about the changes they made in the LLC.

Key Takeaways

• An LLC can modify their Articles anytime after approval.
• Every LLC must file an amendment to update the state about the changes.
• Amendment is not required if an LLC makes changes in the oprating agreement.
• Selected articles change requires filing an amendment.

What is an LLC Amendment?

Every state allows all the established companies to update or correct their information after it gets approved by the state. An LLC amendment is a document or application that allows LLCs to inform the state about the modifications they have made to the LLC while running the business. For example, if an LLC decides to change its name for any reason, it must file an amendment with the state.

How to File an LLC Amendment?

Based on the state, the amendment filing varies. Some states allow online filing, while some allow an offline method. The overall filing process is similar. Here are the general steps to file LLC amendments irrespective of the state. Before you file an amendment, make sure to be ready with the articles you are going to change. For example, if you are making a modification to the name or changing it completely, make sure to have all the documents, like the new name filing and name reservation documents, with you.

Step 1Get the Amendment Form

The first thing is to get the amendment form from the Secretary of State’s website or office. The form is usually available in a PDF format for offline filing. One must download the form on their computer before filling it out and submit it to the offices by mail or fax (whichever is available and convenient).

For the online filers, online forms are available on the official SOS website. You do not always have to download it on your local machine. You can directly fill it out and submit by clicking the necessary options. Online applications are easier, hassle-free, and take less time to submit than offline forms.

Step 2Fill it Out with the Correct Modifications

Once you get the form, the next step is to fill it out with the correct information. As said earlier, there are selective changes that require amendment, such as the name or purpose of the LLC. You are required to fill out the form with those changes and modifications. Here’s a general list of changes/modifications that need an amendment,

• Change in LLC Name and Address

• Change in the purpose of the LLC

• Change in member-managed or manager-managed structure in LLCs

Once you file the amendment, you must make changes to your operating agreement according to the modifications you made. For some changes, like name and address, you must update the IRS (Internal Revenue Service), your business licenses and permits, and other financial-related documents.

Step 3Submit the Form to the SOS

The next step is submitting the form. Many states have online provisions for filing an amendment. In many states, on the other hand, they have offline filing, where you must send the filled-out form to the SOS office by mail. If there is a fee to pay, you can send it by check or draft. Usually, no state receives cash. The fee ranges from $20 to $150, approximately, based on the state.

Pro Tip

If you have many changes or corrections of articles after getting the LLC approval, file the restatement of Articles of Organisation instead. It includes all the changes and modifications that are not on the original formation document.

Points to Note While Filing LLC Amendments with the State

• For a member-managed LLC, you must get consent from all the members in the LLC before filing the amendments

• Amendments are for bigger changes, such as a change in name, registered agents, and address of the LLC

• Amendments can be of two types. External changes, such as the registered agent, and another is for internal changes, like changes in members’ contributions. The internal change requires updating the operating agreement.

State-wise LLC Amendment Regulations

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• DC
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa

• Kansas

• Kentucky

• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York

• North Carolina

• North Dakota

• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

In Conclusion

Amending your Articles after getting the LLC approval from the state is a common thing, no matter which state you’re in. However, if the changes are minor or internal, you may not be required to file an amendment. But, if it is external or affects the brand name of the company, you must amend your articles and file the amendment. As mentioned, it is necessary to take other members’ consent before you make any changes or make them official by filing an amendment.

Many states have a separate change of registered agent application process. In this case, you must get the change of a registered agent form from the State SOS official website. The form must be attached to the amendment form when submitting to the SOS.

Operating Agreements

If you see the message “state website error” while submitting your requirements, it only means the state’s filing portal or database had an issue during your submission. The problems can be either a state database mismatch, website downtime, website maintenance, or other issues. In this article, we’ll give you context on what issues could have happened on the state website, and what you can do to process your filings successfully.

Key Takeaways

• State website errors are common.
• Every state has a schedule for website maintenance.
• The payment gateway can be a source of website errors.
• Use Chrome in Incognito when processing filings.

What to Do if You Encounter a State Website Error?

There’s no need to panic if you encounter an error on a state website. Most state websites dedicate a team for contact support to help you with technical issues. Here are some strategies you can do on your own before asking for help from their support team:

• Use Chrome in Incognito

• Try filing after business hours

• Try removing special characters

• Match what the state or IRS has on file

• Check state status pages, and

• Report the website issue

Using Chrome in Incognito will remove browser extensions, ad blockers, and pop-up blockers that may be interfering with your filing process. It will also help to try filing after business hours so the website won’t lag from too many visitors.

Sometimes, systems don’t recognise special characters like &, /, $, or +. Removing them when filling out forms can help during the submission process. As mentioned, the IRS and SOS are very strict with matching database records. If what you submit doesn’t match what they have on file, their system will trigger an error.

Lastly, document the errors you experience and note the date and time. This will help you provide proof of the error when you report the website issue to their support team.

How Does a Website Error Affect Users

Even when a state business filing website is down, the Secretary of State usually continues to treat filing deadlines as active. Unless the state clearly declares that the deadline is extended, the original due date still applies.

Assuming that a deadline will automatically change because of a system outage, without verifying through official announcements, can lead to late filings, penalties, or loss of good standing. It is important to keep in mind that filing deadlines usually stay the same, and mere assumptions can result in serious consequences.

Given that a filing is submitted late, the state may ask for a valid explanation why it was delayed. Without records or documentation, it can be difficult to show that the delay was caused by a system issue, which is inevitable, and not personal neglect.

In such possible scenarios, business owners need to keep records such as:

• Official outage notices

• Screenshots of error messages or downtime alerts

• Mailing receipts or delivery confirmations

• Emails or messages from the Secretary of State

These records help prove that a reasonable effort was made to comply with state requirements on time. But it is also crucial to keep in mind that a website outage alone does not change a required filing deadline. Always keep solid records to prove that the delay was not caused by your own negligence, but by errors in the system.

How to Avoid Late Submissions

Even if system interruptions are a valid reason for delays in filing submissions, as these circumstances are often unpredictable, you should not assume that your request will still be considered and accepted.

To avoid such delays, you should check official notices from the Secretary of State where your business is registered. These notices can be found on the main business filing website, the agency’s homepage, or official social media accounts. They will indicate whether the filing system is currently unavailable.

Other Options to Keep in Mind

Some states release advance official announcements regarding maintenance alerts. These notices explain when filing systems will be unavailable and provide their expected restoration times. Saving these notices can be helpful if ever questions about filing delays arise later on.

If the state allows you to comply beyond the deadline, you may consider filing by mail or in person. You may also use an agent or filing service to represent you on your behalf. But keep in mind that you should first confirm and verify that these options are officially accepted before taking the step.

Are State Website Errors Common?

State website errors do not necessarily mean they will happen all the time, but they are common. In Washington, outages still exist in 2025 and are announced on the Secretary of State’s Public Notices page.

Fast Fact

States are very strict with records. One simple change in spelling or format can trigger an error.

Why Do State Website Errors Occur?

State website errors can occur based on many factors, such as state database mismatch, website downtime, high traffic, and browser incompatibility. There are also times when errors happen due to payment processing failure or form validation bugs. If your business is similar to another business, the system can consider your filing for manual review. Here are more details on how each error happens.

State Database Mismatch

A state database mismatch occurs when your name or address may not match the record in their system. If your business is new, your Employer Identification Number (EIN) may not yet be recognized by the state.

States are very strict with records. A simple change in spelling or format can trigger the system to reject your filing. When filling state requirements, ensure all information about you and your business is correct so the portal can sync with the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) or Secretary of State databases.

Website Downtime or Maintenance

Every state has a schedule for website maintenance, also called website downtime. During this phase, programmers or engineers check bugs on the website to improve speed and security.

As technology improves, programmers and engineers also find ways to make websites more accessible and user-friendly for everyone. However, while these improvements are being implemented, the website may crash, and your filings can fail.

High Traffic or Ongoing Filing of Backlogs

On peak compliance deadlines, state systems can lag and experience errors. Schedule filings earlier to prevent coinciding with the:

• Annual report season

• January business registrations

• End-of-year filing rush

• Tax deadline months

Browser or Session Incompatibility

Surprisingly, state websites often crash on browsers like Safari and Firefox. Portals also glitch when accessed through phones or tablets.

For a better filing experience, use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. These browsers are more compatible with state websites.

Payment Processing Failure

Sometimes, the payment gateway is the source of website errors. Ensure that your name and address match the details on your cards.

Other payment gateways can also limit payment options. Please check the website to confirm accepted payment methods. The Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, for example, accepts credit cards and e-checks.

Form Validation Bugs

Some states have outdated form fields. Characters like “&” and “/” may not be accepted in form fields. Newly assigned ZIP codes by the USPS (United States Postal Service) may not be updated in the state portal and can be flagged by forms as invalid. Requests for new ZIP codes can take a year of transition, in which the old or new ZIP code can be used.

Filing Needs Manual Review

The system can also show an error if your business name is almost similar to another business. In this situation, your filing will be reviewed manually. It may sound alarming, but the state is only adding a human approach to the process to correct lapses on the system’s end.

Manual review is also considered for incomplete prior filings or old businesses tied to your name or SSN (Social Security Number). Always review your filings to prevent penalties, interest, and a longer process.

Did You Know?

The system can also show an error if your business name is almost similar to another business.

Here are some other instances when state business filing websites become unavailable:

1. Hardware Failure – It happens when there is a malfunction in a server, storage device, or network equipment that interrupts the service.

2. Software Error – It happens when there are bugs, glitches, or crashes in the system’s software that interrupt normal operation.

3. Cybersecurity Incident – It happens when there are hacking or ransomware attacks that disrupt system availability.

4. Network Connectivity Issue – It happens when there are problems with internet service, routers, or data centres that block connection access.

5. Power Outage – It happens during an electricity loss at data centres or offices where the server is hosted, commonly known as a blackout.

6. Traffic Spike – It happens when there is an unexpected high volume of users or requests that overload the system.

Final Words

State website errors are common, and the best approach we can take is to report the issue. Some state websites offer a live chat feature that allows you to consult with a representative immediately. Other than reporting, using incognito mode clears cached sessions that cause forms to crash. Enabling pop-ups and ad blockers to prevent payment page errors also helps. State portals also seem to run faster late at night due to lower traffic of portal users. When filling out information, be sure to erase apostrophes, hyphens, and slash marks. Even punctuation matters.

Registered Agents

Making mistakes is an integral part of human rights. Even when we are extra careful while doing an important task, mistakes can still occur. One such small yet significant mistake is when we type a wrong name on forms or documents. It could be mispelled or missing a letter from the name or surname. Entering the wrong name of an LLC member is quite a common mistake that often happens.

Key Takeaways

• Entering wrong name of an LLC member is a common mistake people often make.
• Amendment or Certificate of Correction can be sent to the SOS with the correct name.
• LLC should notify IRS about the mistake if the wrong name is on the EIN-related document.
• Update internal documents like Operating Agreement as soos as possible with the correct name.

Indeed, it is stressful to witness something, especially when forming an LLC for the first time. It may seem like a small typo, but it makes a huge difference when dealing with banks, tax filings, compliance, or any other types of legal documents. However, it is not something beyond fixation. Let’s find out how you can solve the problem of incorrect LLC members’ names on formation and other legal documents.

How to Fix a Wrong LLC Member Name

Correcting an incorrect name of an LLC member on documents depends on where the error appears and how the LLC was originally filed. In most cases, the fixation or correction involves updating state records and aligning them with federal records, including records from other entities like banks, insurance companies, etc.

Step 1File an Amendment or Certificate of Correction With the State

Most states have an Amendment of Articles that can be filed with the correct name. This document is required when you make any changes to your LLC after it is completely formed. This document can also be used to correct any errors, such as the wrong name of an LLC member, while forming the company.

In some states, a separate document, called the Certificate of Correction, is available for correcting mishaps like wrong name, address, or mispelled surname. For example, in Delaware, a Certificate of Correction is required to file for such errors. On the other side, in New York, an Amendment of Articles of Organization must be filed with the SOS for the name error.

Sample: NYC Amendment of Articles of Organization

Sample: Delaware Certificate of Correction

Fast Fact

Some states charge a filing fee for amendments. The processing time also varies across different states. Before you file the amendment, verify all the rules and regulations with the official SOS website.

Step 2Update IRS Records If Required

The next step is to update the Internal Revenue Service‘s records to inform the IRS about the name error. If the name is wrong on EIN-related documents, the LLC owner is required to file the Form 8822-B to rectify the error. This form is basically to update the new business address or a new responsible party/owner. However, this form can be used to update the changed name.

Step 3Update Internal LLC Documents

As soon as you are done updating the correct name on state and federal government records, the next step is to update internal documents. Internal documents, like the operating agreement, must be updated with the changed/corrected name of the LLC member. In most states, filing an operating agreement is not mandatory. However, it is always recommended to have one for smooth internal operations.

Step 4Update Documents in Bank, Insurance Company, and Others

Now, it is time to notify your bank and other entities related to your LLC. Insurance, Licenses, and other legal documents must be updated with the corrected name of the LLC member. If you fail to update these documents, it might bring deeper problems like cancellation of accounts, delay in payments, and tax-related issues.

Why is Wrong LLC Member Name a Problem

A wrong LLC member name usually appears in state filing forms, operating agreements, or federal records, like the IRS. These errors may seem minor, but they can cause a major issue when verifying ownership, opening bank accounts, or responding to government notices. Fixing the error early helps prevent these avoidable complications.

The following are types of name errors that often occur,

• Typographical Errors During Filing

Many LLC name errors occur during the initial filing process. A simple misspelling, missing middle name, or incorrect suffix can be carried over into official records and remain unnoticed until the LLC requires verification.

• Mismatch Between State and IRS Records

Sometimes, the member name listed with the Secretary of State does not match what was submitted to the IRS when applying for an EIN. This mismatch can delay EIN processing or cause issues when filing taxes.

Important

Banks and government agencies often rely on exact name matching. Even a minor discrepancy can result in rejected applications or requests for additional documentation.

Conclusion

Having the wrong name of an LLC member is not an unfamiliar event that we often witness. However, this minor mistake can cause massive problems for the person and he company. It can cause unnecessary delays and complications. However, it is usually fixable with the right steps. Addressing the issue early, updating both state and federal records, and maintaining consistent internal documents helps with compliance and avoids future problems.