How to Change Registered Agent in Kentucky – 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.

All Posts by Steve Goldstein →
Business Formation Expert  |   Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Last updated: 
LLCBuddy™ offers informative content for educational purposes only, not as a substitute for professional legal or tax advice. We may earn commissions if you use the services we recommend on this site.
At LLCBuddy, we don't just offer information; we provide a curated experience backed by extensive research and expertise. Led by Steve Goldstein, a seasoned expert in the LLC formation sector, our platform is built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the nuances involved in establishing and running an LLC. We've navigated the intricacies of the industry, sifted through the complexities, and packaged our knowledge into a comprehensive, user-friendly guide. Our commitment is to empower you with reliable, up-to-date, and actionable insights, ensuring you make informed decisions. With LLCBuddy, you're not just getting a tutorial; you're gaining a trustworthy partner for your entrepreneurial journey.
Change registered agent in Kentucky

Change Registered Agent in Kentucky: A registered agent in Kentucky is a point of contact between your LLC and the state. You must appoint a Registered Agent when you form an LLC in Kentucky. At any point in time, you might need to replace/change your Registered Agent in Kentucky. When it comes to changing the registered agent in Kentucky, it is a straightforward method. To change your Registered Agent in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky. Also, you will get to learn when and why you have to change your Registered Agent, appointed for your Kentucky LLC.

What is Registered Agent in Kentucky

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

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

To change the Registered Agent in Kentucky, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $10 to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the Kentucky Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in Kentucky 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky Statement of Change of Registered Agent (PDF) from the official website of the Kentucky 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
Kentucky Statement of Change of Registered Agent – PDF
Kentucky Registered Agent – Requirement
Michael G. Adams, Office of the Secretary of State, P.O. Box 718, Frankfort, KY 40602

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Kentucky registered agent is $10. This fee will be paid to the Kentucky 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 Kentucky

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 Kentucky, there is a separate document called the Statement of Consent of Registered Agent has to be submitted to the SOS office. You must get the Statement of Consent of Registered Agent , 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 Kentucky Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Kentucky

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

FAQs

What are the requirements to change a registered agent in Kentucky?
You will need to file a Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Kentucky Secretary of State.
Is there a fee for changing a registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, there is a $10 fee to file the Change of Registered Agent/Office form.
Can I change my registered agent online in Kentucky?
Yes, you can file the Change of Registered Agent/Office form online through the Kentucky Secretary of State’s website.
How long does it take to change a registered agent in Kentucky?
It typically takes about 1-2 business days for the new registered agent to be updated on the Kentucky Secretary of State’s website.
Can I change my registered agent to a foreign entity in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent to a foreign entity as long as they are authorized to do business in Kentucky.
What happens to my old registered agent in Kentucky when I change?
Your old registered agent will be notified of the change and will no longer be listed as the registered agent for your business entity.
Is there a specific form I need to use to change my registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, you will need to file a Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Kentucky Secretary of State.
Can I change my registered agent and office address at the same time in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and office address at the same time by filing a Change of Registered Agent/Office form.
What is the deadline for changing my registered agent in Kentucky?
There is no specific deadline for changing your Registered Agent in Kentucky; however, it’s best to do it as soon as possible to ensure proper communications are maintained with the state.
Who can be a registered agent in Kentucky?
Any person who is a resident of Kentucky or a business entity that is authorized to do business in Kentucky can be a registered agent in Kentucky.
Can I act as my own registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in Kentucky as long as you have a physical address in Kentucky, rather than just a PO Box.
What is a registered agent’s responsibility in Kentucky?
A registered agent in Kentucky is responsible for accepting legal papers and government notices on behalf of your business.
What are the consequences of not having a registered agent in Kentucky?
The most serious consequence of not having a registered agent in Kentucky is that your business entity may be declared inactive or no longer exist in the eyes of the state.
How do I know if my registered agent needs to be changed in Kentucky?
You may need to change your registered agent in Kentucky if your current agent is no longer available to act as your agent, if you are dissatisfied with their services, or if you need to update your agent’s contact information.
Can I change my registered agent to a person who does not work for my company in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent to a person who does not work for your company in Kentucky as long as they have a physical address in Kentucky and are willing to act as your registered agent.
Can I change my registered agent to an attorney in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent to an attorney in Kentucky.
Can I change my registered agent to a family member in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent to a family member in Kentucky.
Can I change my registered agent during the process of forming an LLC in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent during the process of forming an LLC in Kentucky if your articles of organization have not yet been filed.
Is there a certain time of year that is best to change my registered agent in Kentucky?
There is no specific time of year that is best to change your registered agent in Kentucky; however, you should make the change as soon as possible to avoid any potential complications.
Can I change my registered agent for free in Kentucky?
No, there is a $10 fee to file the Change of Registered Agent/Office form in Kentucky.
How many registered agents can my business have in Kentucky?
You can only have one registered agent for each business entity in Kentucky.
Can I change my registered agent for an ongoing lawsuit in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent for an ongoing lawsuit in Kentucky by filing a Notice of Appearance for change of Registered Agent/Office.
Can I change my registered agent for a trademark application in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent for a trademark application in Kentucky by submitting a new Power of Attorney form.
How will the new registered agent receive legal notices and documents in Kentucky?
The new registered agent will receive legal notices and documents through the mail at the address provided during their appointment.
Can the owner of my business entity be my registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, the owner of your business entity can be your registered agent in Kentucky as long as they have a physical address in Kentucky.
Who can help me change my registered agent in Kentucky?
An attorney or CPA can help you change your registered agent in Kentucky, but it is not required.
Will my business name change when I change my registered agent in Kentucky?
No, changing your registered agent in Kentucky will not change your business name.
How will I receive confirmation of my new registered agent appointment in Kentucky?
You will receive confirmation of your new registered agent appointment in Kentucky through the mail.
Can I change my registered agent for multiple business entities at once in Kentucky?
No, you will need to file a separate Change of Registered Agent/Office form for each business entity that you want to change the registered agent for in Kentucky.
How do I change my registered agent in Kentucky?
To change the registered agent in Kentucky, file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent with the Kentucky Secretary of State.
How often can I change the registered agent in Kentucky?
You can change your registered agent in Kentucky as often as you like.
What is the cost to change my registered agent in Kentucky?
The filing fee to change the registered agent in Kentucky is $10.
Who can act as a registered agent in Kentucky?
A registered agent must be a Kentucky resident or a Kentucky registered business entity.
Can I be my own registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Kentucky.
What are the requirements for a Kentucky registered agent?
A registered agent in Kentucky must have a physical address in the state, be available during normal business hours, and be able to receive legal documents on behalf of the business.
How long does the process of changing a registered agent in Kentucky take?
The process of changing a registered agent in Kentucky usually takes a few business days.
Is changing a registered agent in Kentucky a difficult process?
No, it is a simple process to change a registered agent in Kentucky.
Is there any special form required to change a registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form with the Kentucky Secretary of State.
Can I change both my registered office and registered agent at the same time in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change both your registered office and registered agent at the same time in Kentucky.
Is there a deadline to change my registered agent in Kentucky?
No deadline exists for changing your registered agent in Kentucky.
Can I change my registered agent when my corporation/LLC is being formed in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent when your corporation/LLC is being formed in Kentucky.
Is it necessary for my new registered agent to sign the Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form in Kentucky?
No, your new registered agent does not need to sign the form in Kentucky.
Can I hire a professional registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, you can hire a professional registered agent in Kentucky.
Do I need to have a mailing address in Kentucky to change my registered agent?
No, you do not need to have a mailing address in Kentucky to change your registered agent.
What happens if I don’t notify the Kentucky Secretary of State of a change in my registered agent?
You may not receive important legal documents and may lose your good standing with the state of Kentucky.
Can I change my registered agent if I have a pending legal case in Kentucky?
Yes, you can change your registered agent if you have a pending legal case in Kentucky.
Is there any publication requirement in Kentucky when I change the Registered Agent?
No, there is no publication required when you change your registered agent in Kentucky.
What do I need to attach with Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form in Kentucky?
You don’t need to attach any specific documents with your form.
Can I email or fax my Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form in Kentucky?
No, the Kentucky Secretary of State does not accept forms through email or fax.
Once I change my registered agent in Kentucky, will I receive confirmation?
Yes, you will receive confirmation from the Kentucky Secretary of State after a change has been made to your registered agent.
Can a Kentucky professional registered agent notify the Secretary of State when a change of scenario happens?
Yes, a Kentucky professional registered agent can notify the Secretary of State when a change of scenario occurs.
Can the same registered agent serve for multiple entities in Kentucky?
Yes, the same registered agent can serve for multiple entities in Kentucky.
What is the implication of appointing a disqualified or ineligible registered Agent in Kentucky?
Appointing a disqualified or ineligible registered agent in Kentucky may lead to legal issues such as lawsuits, forfeiting your business status, and dissolution of your company.
Can non-Kentucky residents serve as the registered agent for an entity qualified to do business in Kentucky?
No, non-Kentucky residents cannot serve as the registered agent for an entity qualified to do business in Kentucky.
Is there any difference when changing a registered agent for an LLC in Kentucky versus a corporation?
No, the process is the same for both LLCs and corporations when changing a registered agent in Kentucky.
Can the Kentucky Secretary of State act as my registered agent?
No, the Kentucky Secretary of State is not available to act as a registered agent.
Do I need to provide any justification for changing my registered agent in Kentucky?
No, you do not need to provide a justification for changing your registered agent in Kentucky.

Also Read

Why Change Registered Agent in Kentucky is So Important

Changing your registered agent may not seem like a pressing matter, but it is actually an important step that can have significant implications for your business operations. There are several reasons why changing your registered agent in Kentucky is so important.

First and foremost, having an up-to-date registered agent is crucial for maintaining compliance with state regulations. Failing to have a registered agent or having an outdated one can result in penalties, fines, or even the suspension of your business. By promptly changing your registered agent when necessary, you can avoid unnecessary risks and ensure that your business remains in good standing with state authorities.

Additionally, changing your registered agent can also help to ensure effective communication with your business. Your registered agent is responsible for receiving important legal documents and notices on behalf of your company. If you have an outdated registered agent who is no longer reachable or unavailable, you may miss important deadlines, court summons, or other critical information. By changing your registered agent to a reliable and responsive individual or company, you can ensure that you are always informed and prepared to address any issues that may arise.

Furthermore, changing your registered agent can also help to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of your business operations. By selecting a registered agent who is experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to their role, you can streamline the process of receiving and managing important documents. This can ultimately help to facilitate smoother communication, quicker response times, and better organization overall.

In conclusion, changing your registered agent in Kentucky is an important step that all business owners should take seriously. By ensuring that you have an up-to-date and reliable registered agent, you can maintain compliance with state laws, stay informed about important legal matters, and improve the efficiency of your business operations. So, whether you are considering changing your registered agent due to a move, a change in business structure, or any other reason, it is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Make sure to carefully evaluate your options, choose a registered agent who meets your needs, and make the change promptly to protect and support your business.

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 Kentucky 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.

Leave a Comment