How to Change Registered Agent on LLC: State by State Guide

If you are a business owner, you may have heard about registered agents and their importance in the LLC formation process.

 A registered agent is a person or entity that is designated to receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your business. Every LLC is required to have a registered agent, and if you need to change your registered agent, it is important to understand the process.

I am in this situation right now – I want to change my registered agent service from Incorp to either ZenBusiness or Northwest Registered Agent as they offer better pricing and service.

So I thought I’d put together this guide on how to do it for people in a similar position.

The process for changing registered agents can vary depending on the state where your LLC is registered, but we have provided the basic steps for you below.

In some states, you may need to file specific forms with the Secretary of State, while in others, you may only need to update your information with the state’s business filing office. 

To help you navigate the process, we have compiled a list of links to relevant forms for each state. Please note that while this address is up to date, you should always check with your state’s business filing office for the most up-to-date information.

Why Change Registered Agent

As a business owner, you may find that you need to change your registered agent for a variety of reasons. Here are a few common reasons why you may need to make this change:

1. Change of Address

If your registered agent has moved or changed their address, you will need to update your registered agent information with the state. This is important because your registered agent is the point of contact between your business and the state, and you need to ensure that any official correspondence is sent to the correct address.

2. Poor Service

If you are not satisfied with the level of service you are receiving from your current registered agent, you may want to consider changing to a new registered agent. Poor service can include things like missed deadlines, failure to forward important documents, or unresponsive customer service.

3. Cost Savings

If you are looking to save money on your registered agent services, you may want to shop around and compare prices from different registered agent providers. You may be able to find a provider who offers similar services at a lower cost.

4. Change in Ownership or Management

If there has been a change in ownership or management of your business, you may want to change your registered agent to reflect this change. This is important because your registered agent is the point of contact between your business and the state, and you need to ensure that any official correspondence is sent to the correct person.

5. Better Service Options

If you are looking for additional services or features that your current registered agent does not offer, you may want to consider changing to a new registered agent. For example, some registered agent providers offer additional services like document storage, compliance monitoring, or business formation services.

6. Relocation to a New State

If your business is relocating to a new state, you will need to change your registered agent to a provider who is authorized to do business in that state. Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding registered agents, so it is important to ensure that your new registered agent is compliant with the laws of the state where your business is located.

Before you make the decision to change your registered agent, it is important to consider all of your options and weigh the pros and cons of each provider. By doing your research and choosing a reliable and trustworthy registered agent, you can ensure that your business stays compliant with state regulations and that you receive the best possible service.

How to Change Registered Agent Services

If you’re looking to change your LLC’s registered agent, the process can vary depending on your state. However, there are a few general steps you can follow to make the change.

Step 1: Check LLC Operating Agreement

Before you start the process of changing your registered agent, check your LLC’s operating agreement to see if there are any specific requirements or procedures that must be followed. Some operating agreements may require a vote or approval from members before making any changes.

Step 2: Choose a New Registered Agent

Once you’ve reviewed your operating agreement, you’ll need to choose a new registered agent. Your new agent can be an individual or a professional service company that’s authorized to do business in your state. Make sure your new agent is reliable, trustworthy, and has a physical address in your state.

Step 3: File Change of Registered Agent Forms

After you’ve selected a new registered agent, you’ll need to file the appropriate forms with your state’s business filing agency. The specific forms and filing fees can vary by state, so be sure to check with your state’s agency for the correct information. Some states may require additional documentation, such as a certificate of good standing or a resignation letter from your current registered agent.

Below are links to the change of registered agent forms for some of the most popular states:

Remember, the process for changing your LLC’s registered agent can vary by state, so it’s important to check with your state’s business filing agency for the correct procedures and forms. By following these general steps and doing your research, you can make the change smoothly and efficiently.

State-Specific Forms and Requirements To Change Registered Agent Service

1. Alabama: To change a registered agent in Alabama, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Alabama Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/sites/default/files/Statement_of_Change_of_Registered_Agent_Office.pdf
2. Alaska: To change a registered agent in Alaska, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing. Here is the link to the form: https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/portals/5/pub/DBS/Forms/Corporation/08-404.pdf
3. Arizona: To change a registered agent in Arizona, you must file a Statement of Change of Known Place of Business or Statutory Agent form with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Here is the link to the form: https://www.azcc.gov/Divisions/Corporations/Customer-Service/Forms/Statutory-Agent-Change
4. Arkansas: To change a registered agent in Arkansas, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Arkansas Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/uploads/businessServices/Change_of_Registered_Agent_-_Foreign.pdf
5. California: To change a registered agent in California, you must file a Statement of Information form with the California Secretary of State and indicate the change of agent. Here is the link to the form: https://bpd.cdn.sos.ca.gov/si-550.pdf
6. Colorado: To change a registered agent in Colorado, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Colorado Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.state.co.us/pubs/business/forms/StatementofChangeofRegisteredAgentorRegisteredOffice.pdf
7. Connecticut: To change a registered agent in Connecticut, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Connecticut Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ElectionServices/Forms/Change_of_Registered_Agent.pdf
8. Delaware: To change a registered agent in Delaware, you must file a Certificate of Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Delaware Division of Corporations. Here is the link to the form: https://corp.delaware.gov/changeagent.shtml
9. Florida: To change a registered agent in Florida, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Florida Department of State. Here is the link to the form: https://dos.myflorida.com/media/696359/statement-of-change-of-registered-agent-and-or-registered-office.pdf
10. Georgia: To change a registered agent in Georgia, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Georgia Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sos.ga.gov/admin/files/Change_of_Registered_Agent_or_Registered_Office.pdf
11. Hawaii: To change a registered agent in Hawaii, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Here is the link to the form: https://cca.hawaii.gov/breg/files/2013/01/REG-15.pdf
12. Idaho: To change a registered agent in Idaho, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office form with the Idaho Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sos.idaho.gov/Forms/Corp/ChangeAgentOffice.pdf
13. Illinois: To change a registered agent in Illinois, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Illinois Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/bca1235.pdf
14. Indiana: To change a registered agent in Indiana, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Office form with the Indiana Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.in.gov/sos/business/files/Change_of_Registered_Agent_or_Office.pdf
15. Iowa: To change a registered agent in Iowa, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Office form with the Iowa Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sos.iowa.gov/forms/business/635_0101.pdf
16. Kansas: To change a registered agent in Kansas, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Agent form with the Kansas Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.ks.gov/forms/business/Change_of_Registered_Office_or_Agent.pdf
17. Kentucky: To change a registered agent in Kentucky, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Kentucky Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.ky.gov/bus/business-filings/Documents/Change%20of%20Registered%20Agent%20or%20Registered%20Office.pdf
18. Louisiana: To change a registered agent in Louisiana, you must file a Change of Registered Office or Agent form with the Louisiana Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.la.gov/BusinessServices/StartABusiness/FileBusinessDocuments/FormsAndFees/Documents/DomicileChange.pdf
19. Maine: To change a registered agent in Maine, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Maine Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/corp/forms/corp_change_registered_agent.pdf
20. Maryland: To change a registered agent in Maryland, you must file a Change of Resident Agent form with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation. Here is the link to the form: https://dat.maryland.gov/businesses/Documents/Change%20of%20Resident%20Agent.pdf
21. Massachusetts: To change a registered agent in Massachusetts, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office form with the Massachusetts Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/cor/corpdf/c156.pdf
22. Michigan: To change a registered agent in Michigan, you must file a Change of Registered Office and/or Resident Agent form with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Here is the link to the form: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/lara/CSCL_LLC_532_Change_of_Registered_Office_and_or_Resident_Agent_470414_7.pdf
23. Minnesota: To change a registered agent in Minnesota, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/4083/statement-of-change-of-registered-office-or-registered-agent.pdf
24. Mississippi: To change a registered agent in Mississippi, you must file a Change of Registered Office or Agent form with the Mississippi Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.ms.gov/content/documents/business_services/Change%20of%20Registered%20Office%20or%20Agent.pdf
25. Missouri: To change a registered agent in Missouri, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Missouri Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.mo.gov/forms/Corp/Corp68.pdf
26. Montana: To change a registered agent in Montana, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Montana Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sosmt.gov/wp-content/uploads/Change-of-Registered-Agent-or-Registered-Office.pdf
27. Nebraska: To change a registered agent in Nebraska, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Nebraska Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.ne.gov/business-services/forms/change-registered-agent
28. Nevada: To change a registered agent in Nevada, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Office form with the Nevada Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.nvsos.gov/sosentitysearch/corpForms/ChangeRA.pdf
29. New Hampshire: To change a registered agent in New Hampshire, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Office form with the New Hampshire Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.nh.gov/corporate/ChangeAgentOffice.pdf
30. New Jersey: To change a registered agent in New Jersey, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the New Jersey Department of Treasury. Here is the link to the form: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/revenue/dcr/programs/charitable/pdf/Form-CRA-1.pdf
31. New Mexico: To change a registered agent in New Mexico, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the New Mexico Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.state.nm.us/uploads/files/Change%20of%20Registered%20Agent%20or%20Office.pdf
32. New York: To change a registered agent in New York, you must file a Certificate of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the New York Department of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.dos.ny.gov/forms/corporations/1338-f-l.pdf
33. North Carolina: To change registered agent service  in North Carolina, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form with the North Carolina Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sosnc.gov/Forms/Documents/Change_of_Registered_Office_or_Agent.pdf
34. North Dakota: To change registered agent service in North Dakota, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the North Dakota Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sos.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/forms/business-services/Change_of_Registered_Agent_or_Registered_Office.pdf
35. Ohio: To change registered agent service in Ohio, you must file a Change of Statutory Agent form with the Ohio Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.state.oh.us/globalassets/business/forms/533a.pdf
36. Oklahoma: To change registered agent service in Oklahoma, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.ok.gov/forms/Change%20of%20Registered%20Agent%20or%20Office%20Form%20-%20Foreign%20Corp%20-%20Revised%20Oct%202019.pdf
37. Oregon: To change a registered agent services in Oregon, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Oregon Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sos.oregon.gov/business/Documents/change-of-registered-agent.pdf
38. Pennsylvania: To change registered agents in Pennsylvania, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form with the Pennsylvania Department of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.dos.pa.gov/BusinessCharities/Business/Resources/Documents/Forms/Registration%20Forms/15-411.pdf

39. Rhode Island: To change registered agent service  in Rhode Island, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Rhode Island Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.ri.gov/assets/downloads/documents/forms/business-services/ChangeOfRegisteredAgentOrOffice.pdf
40. South Carolina: To change registered agent service in South Carolina, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Agent form with the South Carolina Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.sc.gov/forms/Corp/520.pdf
41. South Dakota: To change registered agentx in South Dakota, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Agent form with the South Dakota Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sdsos.gov/docs/forms/business-services/change-registered-office-agent.pdf
42. Tennessee: To change  registered agents in Tennessee, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Agent form with the Tennessee Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/sos/documents/forms/ss-4431.pdf
43. Texas: To change a registered agent in Texas, you must file a Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Texas Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/forms/401_ch.pdf
44. Utah: To change a registered agent in Utah, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Office form with the Utah Department of Commerce. Here is the link to the form: https://corporations.utah.gov/pdf/Statement-of-Change-of-Registered-Agent-or-Office.pdf
45. Vermont: To change a registered agent in Vermont, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Vermont Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sec.state.vt.us/media/771689/changeagent.pdf
46. Virginia: To change a registered agent in Virginia, you must file a Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Here is the link to the form: https://www.scc.virginia.gov/clk/formfee.aspx?Filing=Change+of+Registered+Office+or+Registered+Agent
47. Washington: To change a registered agents in Washington, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Office form with the Washington Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://www.sos.wa.gov/_assets/corps/forms/ChangeOfRegisteredAgentOrOffice.pdf
48. West Virginia: To change a registered agents in West Virginia, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Office form with the West Virginia Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sos.wv.gov/business-licensing/forms/Pages/default.aspx
49. Wisconsin: To change a registered agent in Wisconsin, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. Here is the link to the form: https://www.wdfi.org/_resources/indexed/site/corporations/Corporation_Change_of_Registered_Agent_or_Registered_Office.pdf
50. Wyoming: To change a registered agents in Wyoming, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Wyoming Secretary of State. Here is the link to the form: https://sos.wyo.gov/Forms/Business/ChangeRegisteredAgent.aspx

Conclusion

Changing your registered agent is a straightforward process that can be done by following the guidelines set by your state’s regulations. It’s essential to ensure that you select a new registered agent before terminating the services of the current one to avoid any potential legal issues.

Remember, the registered agent is a crucial part of your LLC, as registered agents are responsible for receiving legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your business. Therefore, it’s essential to select a reliable and trustworthy registered agent that will fulfill their duties efficiently.

Each state has its own specific forms and procedures that must be followed when changing registered agents. You can find the relevant forms and information on your state’s official website or by contacting your Secretary of State’s office. Below are links to the relevant forms for some of the most populous states in the US:

Remember to check with your state’s official website or Secretary of State’s office for the most up-to-date information and forms. By following the correct procedures and selecting a reliable registered agent, you can ensure that your LLC will continue to operate smoothly and efficiently.