How to Change Registered Agent in California – A Complete Guide


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Change registered agent in California

Change Registered Agent in California: A registered agent in California is a point of contact between your LLC and the state. You must appoint a Registered Agent when you form an LLC in California. At any point in time, you might need to replace/change your Agent for Service of Process in California. When it comes to changing the registered agent in California, it is a straightforward method. To change your Agent for Service of Process in California, one has to submit the statement of change of the Agent for Service of Process. It can be filed online or by mail.

In this article, you will learn how to change registered agent in California. Also, you will get to learn when and why you have to change your Agent for Service of Process, appointed for your California LLC.

What is Agent for Service of Process in California

The California Agent for Service of Process, appointed by the limited liability company, is a person who receives all the legal documents on your company’s behalf. To become a registered agent in California, one must meet the following requirements,

  1. The person must be or above 18 years old
  2. The person has to be a permanent resident of California
  3. The person should have a legal permit to conduct business in California
  4. The person must be available during business hours at the designated office address in California

You can also be your own registered agent in California. However, it is not wise to be your own agent as it can divert your attention from the core of your business.

How to Change a Registered Agent in California

To change the Agent for Service of Process in California, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $20 to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the California Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in California online, you must search for the appropriate online form. You can file your change of Agent for Service of Process statement online if the online form is available through the Secretary of State. Follow the below-given instructions:

  • Visit the California Secretary of State’s official website
  • Log in to the portal using your credentials.
  • You will find the ‘Update’ option in your dashboard if the online update option is available.
  • Click on the ‘update’ option to find the ‘registration’ option.
  • You will get an online form (or in PDF format)
  • Fill out the form (or download it on your PC, then fill it out) with the old and new registered agent’s details.
  • Submit (or upload) the completed form to the portal.
  • In the next section, you will get payment details (if applicable) and pay the fees using a credit card.

Your online updation is done! It takes some time to update the details on the portal. Once it is updated, your new registered agent can start conducting business on your behalf.

Filing Through Mail or In-person

If you want to file the statement of change of registered agent via mail or in person (if available), then you should follow the rules. For in-person or mail filings, you need to download the California Cover Sheet Submission (PDF) from the official website of the California Secretary of State. Complete the form by filling in all the information about the LLC and both (new and existing) registered agents. The form has to be signed by the new registered agent. This will provide the consent of the new agent. Once completed, submit it to the below-mentioned address:

Important LinksSubmit Offline Form
Change of Registered Agent – Online
California Cover Sheet Submission – PDF
California Registered Agent – Requirement
Secretary of State, Business Entities Filings, P.O. Box 944228, Sacramento, CA 94244

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the California registered agent is $20. This fee will be paid to the California Secretary of State by check or credit card.

If you hire a Registered Agent service, filing the Statement of Change would be much easier. Also, the registered agent will help you with the consent letter the new registered agent has to sign. LLCBuddy editorial team suggests a list of the best LLC services that offer registered agent services. Some of them offer standalone registered agent services.

Recommended: You can get the best registered agent service at a reasonable price with online LLC service providers. We recommend using –

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LegalZoom Registered Agent – $299 Per Year

Registered Agent Consent Letter in California

The registered Agent’s Consent letter is a document that a new registered agent must submit along with the formation document. It is a statement that the agent submits upon agreeing to work with the LLC. When you change the Agent for Service of Process, you must also submit the consent letter signed by the new agent. In many states, submitting the Change of Registered Agent form does the job; sending any additional consent document to the SOS is unnecessary. However, there are many states where you must submit the consent letter separately and pay a certain fee (if applicable). This consent must include the following details-

  • LLC name
  • A letter that says the person gives consent to serve the LLC as a registered agent
  • The execution date
  • Name of the registered agent
  • Signature of the registered agent

In California, there is a separate document, the Submission of Cover Sheet has to be sent to the SOS along with the change of registered agent form. You must get the Submission Cover Sheet, fill it out, and submit it to the SOS. The agent must sign the form or self-attest. It is proof that the new Agent for Service of Process has given the nod to provide their services to the LLC. An additional filing fee (or expedited fee) might be charged. Check California Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in California

There can be several reasons why LLCs want to change their registered agent in California. Some of the main and most important reasons are listed below,

Be Your Own Registered Agent

A very common reason is that if anyone wants to be his/her own registered agent. Any LLC owner can be the registered agent himself/herself as per the California Secretary of State. So, you may want to change the registered agent and become one yourself for your LLC. In that case, you must submit the change form with your details.

Want to Hire a Professional Registered Agent

You may have designated yourself or someone from the family as the registered agent for your LLC in the initial phase. But with expansion in business, your roles and responsibilities also expand. You may not be present at the office during working hours. And a registered agent is required to be available in the office. So, you must hire a registered agent who could replace you.

Existing Registered Agent Resigns

If your current registered agent resigns or your service provider is out of business, you can change your Registered Agent in California. You must change the registered agent if the existing one resigns or is out of service.

Forming foreign LLC

This is to be noted that a person is eligible to be a California Agent for Service of Process only if they are the California resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in California, you might need to change your registered agent because not all registered agents are eligible to work in different states.

FAQs

What is a registered agent in California?
A registered agent is a person or entity authorized to receive legal documents on behalf of a business entity.
Why do I need to change my registered agent in California?
You may need to change your registered agent in California if your current registered agent is not fulfilling their duties or if you want to switch to a more reliable registered agent.
How do I change my registered agent in California?
To change your registered agent in California, you need to file a Statement of Information (Form SI200) with the state and indicate the new registered agent.
Do I need to hire a new registered agent before I can change my registered agent in California?
Yes, you need to have a new registered agent in place before you can change your registered agent in California.
Can I be my own registered agent in California?
You can be your own registered agent in California if you have a physical address in California and give your personal address as the registered agent address.
Is there a fee to change my registered agent in California?
Yes, there is a $20 filing fee to change your registered agent in California.
How long does it take to change my registered agent in California?
It can take 4-6 weeks for the Secretary of State’s office to process the change of agent information in California.
Can I change my registered agent in California by phone or email?
No, you cannot change your registered agent in California by phone or email. You need to file a Form SI200.
Can I change my registered agent before my initial registration in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent before your initial registration in California.
Can my registered agent be a corporation in California?
Yes, a registered agent can be a corporation in California if the corporation is authorized to conduct business in California.
Can I change my registered agent if I am suspended from doing business in California?
No, you cannot change your registered agent if you are suspended from doing business in California.
Who can be a registered agent in California?
A person who is a resident of California, a corporation authorized to do business in California, or a registered agent service can be a registered agent in California.
How do I find a new registered agent in California?
You can find a new registered agent in California by contacting a registered agent service or by making arrangements with an individual or corporation.
Do I need to notify the old registered agent that I am changing my registered agent in California?
Yes, you should notify the old registered agent that you are changing your registered agent in California.
What happens if I don’t change my registered agent in California?
If you don’t change your registered agent in California, your current registered agent may still receive legal summons on your behalf, even if you’ve terminated the relationship.
Can I change my registered agent if I am a foreign business entity registered to do business in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent if you are a foreign business entity registered to do business in California.
How do I terminate my old registered agent after changing my registered agent in California?
You can terminate your old registered agent after changing your registered agent in California by notifying them in writing and removing their name on your Statement of Information.
Can I change my registered agent if I have ongoing legal disputes in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent if you have ongoing legal disputes in California.
Can I change my registered agent as part of a corporate restructuring in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent as part of a corporate restructuring in California.
Does my registered agent need to be located in California?
No, your registered agent does not need to be located in California if they are a registered agent service.
When does the change of registered agent take effect in California?
The change of registered agent takes effect on the date the Secretary of State approves the Statement of Information.
Can I change my registered agent if I have outstanding tax obligations in California?
No, you cannot change your registered agent if you have outstanding tax obligations in California.
What happens if I cannot find a new registered agent before terminating the old registered agent in California?
If you cannot find a new registered agent before terminating the old registered agent in California, you may need to file a Change of Registered Agent by Unanimous Written Consent of the Managers/Officers (Form RA100) to appoint an interim registered agent.
Can I change my registered agent online in California?
No, you cannot change your registered agent online in California. You need to file a Form SI200.
Can a registered agent refuse to be my registered agent in California?
Yes, a registered agent can refuse to be your registered agent in California, but they must provide written notice to you and the Secretary of State.
Can I change my registered agent if I am in the process of filing for dissolution in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent if you are in the process of filing for dissolution in California.
How do I notify my clients and vendors of the change of registered agent in California?
You should notify your clients and vendors of the change of registered agent in California by sending them a formal notice in writing.
Can I change my registered agent without the consent of my current registered agent in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent without the consent of your current registered agent in California.
Can I change my registered agent in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in California at any time by submitting the necessary forms and fees to the Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to change my registered agent in California?
The fee to change your registered agent in California is $20, plus any additional fees charged by the new registered agent.
What forms do I need to fill out to change my registered agent in California?
You will need to fill out Form RA-100, which is the California Statement of Information form, and include the new registered agent’s information.
Do I need to notify the old registered agent when I change my registered agent in California?
No, you do not need to notify the old registered agent when you change your registered agent in California, but you should inform them to prevent them from continuing to receive legal notices.
What are the requirements to be a registered agent in California?
A registered agent in California must be 18 years of age or older, have a physical address in California, and be available during regular business hours.
Can I use a PO Box for my registered agent address in California?
No, you cannot use a PO Box for your registered agent address in California since a physical street address is required.
Can I change my registered agent’s address and name at the same time in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent’s address and name at the same time in California when you submit form RA-100.
What happens if I don’t have a registered agent in California?
Your company will not be able to conduct business in California without a registered agent, and you may face penalties or fines for non-compliance.
Who can I choose as my registered agent in California?
You can choose an individual or a company to act as your registered agent in California.
How do I find a registered agent in California?
You can find a registered agent in California by searching online or using a registered agent service.
Do I need to include a signed accepting consent when I change my registered agent in California?
No, California does not require a signed accepting consent when changing your registered agent.
How do I know if my new registered agent has been approved in California?
The Secretary of State in California will send you an approval notice once your new registered agent has been approved.
Does my registered agent need to sign the statement of information in California?
No, your registered agent does not need to sign the statement of information in California.
Will changing my registered agent affect my business taxes in California?
No, changing your registered agent will not affect your business taxes in California.
Can I change my registered agent in California if I have pending lawsuits?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in California even if you have pending lawsuits.
How does changing my registered agent affect my business address in California?
Changing your registered agent does not affect your business address in California.
Can I change my registered agent while my business is in the process of dissolution in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent while your business is in the process of dissolution in California.
What is the deadline to change my registered agent in California?
There is no deadline to change your registered agent in California, but it is recommended to do so as soon as possible.
Will changing my registered agent affect my business’s good standing status in California?
No, changing your registered agent will not affect your business’s good standing status in California.
Can I change my registered agent to an out-of-state agent in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent to an out-of-state agent in California, but the agent must have a California address for service of process.
Can I change my registered agent during the annual filing period in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent during the annual filing period in California.
Can I cancel the appointment of my old registered agent once I have a new one in California?
Yes, you can cancel the appointment of your old registered agent once you have a new one in California.
Can I change my registered agent to a family member in California?
Yes, you can change your registered agent to a family member in California as long as they meet the state’s requirements.
How often can I change my registered agent in California?
There are no limits to how often you can change your registered agent in California, but it is recommended to choose a reliable agent to minimize disruptions.

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Why Change Registered Agent in California is So Important

One of the main reasons why changing a registered agent in California is so important is to ensure that your business remains in good standing with the state. If your registered agent is unable to carry out their responsibilities or does not properly notify you of important legal documents, your business could fall out of compliance with state regulations. This can lead to fines, penalties, and even the dissolution of your business entity. By changing your registered agent to a reliable and trustworthy individual or company, you can ensure that your business stays compliant and avoids any unnecessary legal troubles.

Moreover, having a reputable registered agent can also help protect your company’s privacy and confidentiality. Legal documents served to your registered agent are often a matter of public record, which means anyone can access them. If you have a registered agent who is not discreet or efficient in handling these documents, your sensitive information could be exposed to prying eyes. By changing your registered agent to one who values confidentiality and professionalism, you can rest assured that your business information is safe and secure.

Additionally, a registered agent who is proactive and responsive can help your business operate more smoothly. Legal documents and official notices often come with strict deadlines that must be adhered to in order to avoid negative consequences. If your registered agent is unreliable or uncommunicative, you may miss important deadlines that could harm your business. By changing your registered agent to one who is diligent and prompt in their duties, you can ensure that your business stays on track and avoids any unnecessary disruptions.

Furthermore, the reputation of your business can also be impacted by the choice of registered agent. When clients, customers, or partners see that you have a competent and trustworthy registered agent, it reflects positively on your business. On the other hand, a disorganized or unprofessional registered agent can raise red flags and cause doubt in the minds of stakeholders. By changing your registered agent to one with a strong reputation and track record, you can enhance the credibility and trustworthiness of your business.

In conclusion, changing a registered agent in California is not just a legal formality – it is a critical decision that can have far-reaching implications for your business. By choosing a registered agent who is reliable, confidential, proactive, and reputable, you can ensure that your business remains compliant, secure, efficient, and well-regarded. So, don’t underestimate the importance of your registered agent – make the switch to a better option today.

In Conclusion

During your business, you may arrive at a point where you need to change the registered agent. The need may arise when the existing agent wants to quit, or you are terminating the existing agent or expanding your business. Changing the California registered agent can be necessary in various situations. It is quite simple as it can be done online and through mail filing. This article has it all. If you have any queries about changing a registered agent, you can drop a comment below in the box.

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