How to Change Registered Agent in Georgia – 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 Georgia

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

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

What is Registered Agent in Georgia

The Georgia Registered Agent, 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 Georgia, 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 Georgia
  3. The person should have a legal permit to conduct business in Georgia
  4. The person must be available during business hours at the designated office address in Georgia

You can also be your own registered agent in Georgia. 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 Georgia

To change the Registered Agent in Georgia, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $20 (online) and $30 (offline) to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the Georgia Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

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

  • Visit the Georgia 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 Georgia CD-920 Form (Instruction) (PDF) from the official website of the Georgia 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
Georgia CD-920 Form (Instruction) – PDF
Georgia Registered Agent – Requirement		Corporations Division,, 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE,, Suite 313 West Tower,, Atlanta, Georgia 30334.

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Georgia registered agent is $20 (online) and $30 (offline). This fee will be paid to the Georgia 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 –

#1 TOP PICK

LegalZoom Registered Agent – $299 Per Year

Registered Agent Consent Letter in Georgia

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 Registered Agent, 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 Georgia, there is no separate document. The newly appointed registered agent must sign the Acceptance of Appointment in the Change of Registered Agent form. The previous agent has to resign by submitting the Statement of Resignation. You must get the Change of Registered Agent Form, fill it out, and submit it to the SOS. The agent must sign the form or self-attest. It is proof that the new Registered Agent has given the nod to provide their services to the LLC. An additional filing fee (or expedited fee) might be charged. Check Georgia Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Georgia

There can be several reasons why LLCs want to change their registered agent in Georgia. 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 Georgia 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 Georgia. 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 Georgia Registered Agent only if they are the Georgia resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in Georgia, you might need to change your registered agent because not all registered agents are eligible to work in different states.

FAQs

Why would I need to change my registered agent in Georgia?
You may need to change your registered agent in Georgia if your current agent is no longer able or willing to fulfill the role, or if you are dissatisfied with their services.
Is it difficult to change my registered agent in Georgia?
No, the process is fairly straightforward and can be completed online or by mail. However, it’s important to ensure that you follow all of the necessary steps and guidelines carefully.
How much does it cost to change my registered agent in Georgia?
The fees for changing your registered agent in Georgia vary depending on the type of entity and the method of filing. Generally, the fee is around $25-50.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia myself?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Georgia yourself. You will need to file the appropriate paperwork with the Georgia Secretary of State and notify your existing agent as well as any other affected parties.
When should I change my registered agent in Georgia?
You may want to change your registered agent in Georgia if your current agent is no longer meeting your needs or if you need to switch to a more reliable or cost-effective agent.
How long does it take to change my registered agent in Georgia?
The length of time it takes to change your registered agent in Georgia will depend on the method of filing and the number of parties that need to be notified. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to complete the process.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if my business is located in another state?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent for a Georgia entity even if your business is located in another state. You will need to file the appropriate paperwork with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Are there any restrictions on who can be a registered agent in Georgia?
The registered agent for a Georgia entity must have a physical address in Georgia and be available during regular business hours to accept legal documents and other important correspondence on behalf of the business.
Can I serve as my own registered agent in Georgia?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent in Georgia if you meet the eligibility requirements. However, many people prefer to use a professional registered agent service to ensure that their legal correspondence is properly handled.
What happens if I don’t change my registered agent in Georgia?
If you don’t change your registered agent in Georgia, your existing agent will continue to receive and forward legal correspondence and other important documents on your behalf.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia without notifying my current agent?
No, you are required to notify your current registered agent when you change to a new agent in Georgia. This can be done via email, mail, or personal delivery.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if I’m in the middle of a lawsuit or other legal action?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent in Georgia even if you’re in the middle of a lawsuit or other legal action. However, it’s important to notify all parties involved in the legal action of the change of agent.
What information do I need to provide when changing my registered agent in Georgia?
When changing your registered agent in Georgia, you will need to provide the name and contact information of your new agent, along with any necessary paperwork and filing fees.
Is there a deadline for changing my registered agent in Georgia?
There is no specific deadline for changing your registered agent in Georgia. However, it’s important to make the change as soon as possible to ensure that your legal correspondence is sent to the correct address.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if I have outstanding debts or obligations?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent in Georgia even if you have outstanding debts or obligations. However, it’s important to continue making payments and fulfilling any outstanding obligations while the change is being processed.
How do I find a new registered agent in Georgia?
You can find a new registered agent in Georgia by searching online, asking for referrals from other business owners, or using a professional registered agent service.
What happens after I file my paperwork to change my registered agent in Georgia?
After you file your paperwork to change your registered agent in Georgia, you should receive a confirmation notice indicating that the change has been processed. You should also notify all parties involved in your business of the change.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if I’m in the process of forming a new entity?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent in Georgia if you’re in the process of forming a new entity. However, it’s important to ensure that all of the necessary paperwork is filed correctly.
How often can I change my registered agent in Georgia?
There is no limit to the number of times you can change your registered agent in Georgia. However, frequent changes may lead to confusion and administrative errors.
What is a registered agent in Georgia?
A registered agent in Georgia is a designated individual or entity that is responsible for receiving legal and other important correspondence on behalf of a business entity.
How do I know if changing my registered agent in Georgia is right for me?
You may want to consider changing your registered agent in Georgia if your current agent is no longer meeting your needs or if you want to switch to a more reliable or cost-effective agent.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if I have multiple business entities?
Yes, you can change the registered agent for multiple entities in Georgia. Each entity will need to file the appropriate paperwork and pay separate filing fees.
What is the role of a registered agent in Georgia?
The role of a registered agent in Georgia is to receive legal and other important correspondence on behalf of a business entity and forward it on to the appropriate parties.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if I’ve already filed my annual report or other paperwork?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent in Georgia even if you’ve already filed your annual report or other paperwork. However, you may need to file additional paperwork to make sure that your change is properly recorded.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if I’m not a Georgia resident?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent in Georgia even if you’re not a Georgia resident. However, your new agent must have a physical address in Georgia that can be used for service of process.
Can I change my registered agent in Georgia if my entity is already in bad standing?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent in Georgia even if your entity is already in bad standing. However, you must take steps to resolve any outstanding issues and comply with all other legal requirements.
What types of entities in Georgia require a registered agent?
All types of entities in Georgia, including corporations, LLCs, and partnerships, require a registered agent.
Why would I want to change my registered agent in Georgia?
You may want to change your registered agent in Georgia if you’re dissatisfied with the level of service you’re receiving from your current agent, or if you’ve relocated your business to a new address.
What are the requirements for becoming a registered agent in Georgia?
To become a registered agent in Georgia, you must be a resident of the state and have a physical street address where legal documents can be delivered during business hours.
Can I be my own registered agent in Georgia?
Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in Georgia if you meet the state’s requirements.
How do I change my registered agent in Georgia?
You can change your registered agent in Georgia by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office with the Georgia Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to change a registered agent in Georgia?
It costs $10 to file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office with the Georgia Secretary of State.
How long does it take to change a registered agent in Georgia?
It typically takes about 2-3 business days for the Georgia Secretary of State to process a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office.
Do I need to notify my old registered agent when I change agents in Georgia?
Yes, you’ll need to notify your old registered agent that you’re changing agents in Georgia.
Will I receive confirmation when I change my registered agent in Georgia?
Yes, the Georgia Secretary of State will send a confirmation letter to your new registered agent once the Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office has been processed.
Can I change my registered agent online in Georgia?
Yes, you can change your registered agent online through the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
What is the deadline for changing my registered agent in Georgia?
There is no specific deadline for changing your registered agent in Georgia, but it’s important to ensure that your new agent is in place before any legal documents are delivered.
Is there any downtime when changing registered agents in Georgia?
There may be some downtime when changing your registered agent in Georgia, as the Georgia Secretary of State needs to process the filing before your new agent can begin accepting legal documents.
How do I find a registered agent in Georgia?
You can use the Georgia Secretary of State’s database to search for registered agent services in the state.
What happens if I don’t have a registered agent in Georgia?
If you do not have a registered agent in Georgia, you may be subject to fines and legal consequences.
Can I have multiple registered agents in Georgia?
You can only have one registered agent per entity in Georgia.
Can I change the address of my registered agent when changing agents in Georgia?
Yes, you can change the address of your registered agent when changing agents in Georgia.
Is there a list of approved registered agents in Georgia?
The Georgia Secretary of State does not maintain a list of approved registered agents in the state.
Can I change my registered agent and registered office at the same time in Georgia?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and registered office at the same time in Georgia by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office.
How do I verify that my registered agent has been changed in Georgia?
You can check the Georgia Secretary of State’s database to verify that your registered agent has been changed.
Are there any special requirements for out-of-state registered agents in Georgia?
Out-of-state registered agents must be able to receive legal documents at their designated address in Georgia during normal business hours.
Does my new registered agent need to sign anything when I change agents in Georgia?
No, your new registered agent does not need to sign anything when you change agents in Georgia.
Do I need to list the name of my current registered agent when filing a change in Georgia?
Yes, you’ll need to list the name of your current registered agent when filing a change in Georgia.
How long does my new registered agent in Georgia need to keep copies of legal documents?
Your new registered agent in Georgia needs to keep copies of legal documents for a period of at least five years.
What happens if my registered agent resigns in Georgia?
If your registered agent resigns in Georgia, you’ll need to appoint a new agent within 30 days to avoid any fines or legal consequences.
Can I file a change of registered agent and office in Georgia at any time?
Yes, you can file a change of registered agent and office in Georgia at any time, so long as you follow the appropriate procedures.

Also Read

Why Change Registered Agent in Georgia is So Important

One of the key reasons why changing your registered agent in Georgia is so important is the fact that the registered agent is the primary point of contact between your business and the state government. Any official notices, legal documents, or correspondence from the state will be directed to the registered agent. This means that your registered agent must be reliable, responsive, and diligent in their duties to ensure that any critical information or deadlines are addressed promptly and efficiently.

Another crucial reason why changing your registered agent in Georgia is important is the potential impact on your business operations. If your registered agent is not fulfilling their duties effectively, it could result in missed deadlines, fines, penalties, or even the loss of your company’s good standing with the state. This could have serious consequences for your business, including the inability to conduct business legally, disruptions in operations, and damage to your company’s reputation.

Furthermore, changing your registered agent can also help to ensure that your business remains protected and secure. Your registered agent is responsible for receiving sensitive legal documents on behalf of your business, and it is crucial that you have full confidence in their ability to handle such information with the utmost professionalism and confidentiality. By selecting a registered agent that you trust and feel comfortable with, you can provide an added layer of security for your business and protect your company’s sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands.

In addition to these practical considerations, changing your registered agent in Georgia can also be a strategic decision for the growth and development of your business. As your company evolves and expands, you may find that your current registered agent is no longer the best fit for your needs. Perhaps you require a higher level of responsiveness, more specialized services, or additional support for your business operations. By changing your registered agent to a more suitable provider, you can ensure that your business has the support it needs to thrive and succeed in a competitive marketplace.

In conclusion, changing your registered agent in Georgia is a critical decision that can have a profound impact on the success and sustainability of your business. By selecting a registered agent that is reliable, responsive, and trustworthy, you can safeguard your company’s operations, protect your sensitive information, and position your business for growth and success. It is essential to carefully consider your options and choose a registered agent that aligns with your business goals and requirements to ensure that your company remains compliant, secure, and well-positioned for future success.

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 Georgia 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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