How to change your Registered Agent.
Changing your Registered Agent is a routine state filing usually completed in a single form. Most common triggers: switching from an expensive incumbent (LegalZoom, Northwest), moving your business out of your home address, or consolidating multiple entities under one RA service. This guide covers the process, state fees, timing, and our free year of Registered Agent service.
Step by step.
Use a professional RA service (us, Northwest, Harbor Compliance, etc.) or designate yourself if you have a permanent address in the state and accept the privacy tradeoff.
Professional services confirm in writing. If using a person (yourself or a friend), they must sign a Consent to Serve where required.
Most states have a simple form. Some allow online filing. Fees: $0 in many states; $50 in some; $200 in Massachusetts.
State issues confirmation that the change is recorded. Typically 1-7 business days for processing.
Notify the old RA in writing. Some require 30 days notice; some prorate refunds.
Operating agreement reference (if applicable), bank account on file, internal documents.
If your entity is registered in multiple states, repeat the change in each state separately. Foreign qualifications each have their own Registered Agent on file.
What to avoid.
Just hiring a new RA service does not change your state-of-record RA. The state filing is required.
LLCs qualified in multiple states need RA changes in each state. Missing one means lawsuits or state notices to the wrong address.
Cancel the old service in writing before the renewal date. Otherwise the credit card is charged again.
Your home address becomes a public record visible to anyone (including process servers and people you would rather not have it). Professional RA service keeps your address private.
Cheap RA services sometimes just forward physical mail to your home. Useful RA services scan all state mail same-day and upload to a digital portal.
Common questions.
Why change a Registered Agent?
How much does it cost?
How long does it take?
Can I be my own Registered Agent?
What does a Registered Agent do?
What if my Registered Agent resigns?
Do I need an RA in every state I am qualified in?
Will my old RA cooperate with the switch?
Can my attorney be my RA?
Ready when you are.
Tell us a few details. We file with the state, handle the paperwork, and notify you when complete.
On the $129/yr Compliance Annual Filings plan, we cover state late fees.
When you autofile your annual report through the $129/yr plan and we miss the deadline, we pay the state's late fee. The guarantee applies to that specific plan and the filings it includes. Other File.Business services are billed at the prices on this page.