How to Change Registered Agent in Arkansas – 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 Arkansas

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

What is Registered Agent in Arkansas

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

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

To change the Registered Agent in Arkansas, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $0 to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the Arkansas Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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 Arkansas Notice of Change of Registered Agent (PDF) from the official website of the Arkansas 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
Arkansas Notice of Change of Registered Agent – PDF
Arkansas Registered Agent – Requirement		Arkansas Secretary of State, 1401 W. Capital Ave., Suite 250, Little Rock, AR 72201

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Arkansas registered agent is $0. This fee will be paid to the Arkansas 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 Arkansas

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 Arkansas, there is no separate Consent Letter to be produced to the Secretary of State. 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 Arkansas Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Arkansas

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

FAQs

How do I change my registered agent in Arkansas?
You can do this by filing a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
Can I change my registered agent to any person or company in Arkansas?
Yes, you can change your registered agent to any person or company that meets the qualifications outlined by the Arkansas Secretary of State.
Is there a fee associated with changing my registered agent in Arkansas?
Yes, there is a $25 fee to file the Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form in Arkansas.
How long does it take for the Secretary of State to process my request to change registered agent in Arkansas?
Typically, the Arkansas Secretary of State processes changes to registered agents within 1-3 business days.
Can I file my change of registered agent in Arkansas online?
Yes, you can file your Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form online through the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website.
Do I have to notify anyone else besides the Arkansas Secretary of State when I change my registered agent?
No, once your Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form is filed with the Arkansas Secretary of State, your new registered agent will be notified.
Can I change my registered agent at any time in Arkansas?
Yes, you can change your registered agent at any time in Arkansas.
Can I be my own registered agent in Arkansas?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Arkansas as long as you meet the state’s qualifications.
What are the qualifications to be a registered agent in Arkansas?
The registered agent must have a physical street address in the state of Arkansas, be available during regular business hours to receive legal notifications for the business, and be over the age of 18.
What should I do if my registered agent resigns and I need to appoint a new one in Arkansas?
You will need to file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Arkansas Secretary of State to appoint a new registered agent.
Can I change my registered office address at the same time as changing my registered agent in Arkansas?
Yes, you can file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form at the same time to change both in Arkansas.
What happens if I don’t have a registered agent in Arkansas?
Your business could face legal and financial consequences, such as not being able to receive or respond to lawsuits properly, if you do not have a registered agent in Arkansas.
Can my registered agent in Arkansas also be a subsidiary of my business?
Yes, your registered agent can be a subsidiary of your business as long as they meet Arkansas’s qualifications.
When should I notify my current registered agent that I am changing to a new one in Arkansas?
You do not need to notify your current agent that you are changing in Arkansas.
Can I serve as registered agent for multiple businesses in Arkansas?
Yes, you can serve as registered agent for multiple businesses in Arkansas.
Is there a specific time frame in which I have to change my registered agent in Arkansas?
No, there is not a specific time frame in which you have to change your registered agent in Arkansas.
Do I have to record the address of my registered agent in public records in Arkansas?
Yes, the registered agent’s address must be included in your business’s public record in Arkansas.
Can a business owner who is not a resident of Arkansas but has a business in the state act as a registered agent?
Yes, as long as they have a physical street address in Arkansas and meet Arkansas’s qualifications.
What is the difference between a registered agent and a resident agent in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, there’s no difference between a registered agent and a resident agent.
Can I change registered agents if my business is inactive in Arkansas?
Yes, you can change registered agents even if your business is inactive in Arkansas.
Will I receive confirmation that my registered agent has been changed in Arkansas?
Yes, you will receive confirmation from the Arkansas Secretary of State when your new registered agent is file stamped proof approved.
Can I legally act as my own registered agent and my own incorporator at the same time in Arkansas?
Yes, it is possible for a business owner to act as their own registered agent and incorporator at the same time in Arkansas.
What is the process for changing a registered agent company to another company in Arkansas?
You will need to file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office form with the Arkansas Secretary of State to appoint a new registered agent company.
Can I change my registered agent only in some counties and not others in Arkansas?
No, a registered agent must be appointed for the entire state of Arkansas.
Can my registered agent provide legal advice to my business in Arkansas?
No, a registered agent cannot provide legal advice to a business in Arkansas.
Can I act as my own registered agent if I operate my business out of a virtual office in Arkansas?
Yes, you can act as your own registered agent if you have a physical address in a legally registered building that operates under a tax ID number in Arkansas.
Why do I need to have a registered agent in Arkansas?
Having a registered agent in Arkansas is required by law to ensure that businesses receive legal notifications and official documents.
Are there any exemptions to the registered agent requirement in Arkansas?
No, there are no exemptions to the requirement to have a registered agent in Arkansas.
What happens if the registered agent in Arkansas does not respond to legal notifications on behalf of the business?
If the registered agent in Arkansas does not respond to legal notifications on behalf of the business, legal proceedings may take place with or without their acknowledgement. However, this ultimately puts the business at high risk of being considered “not defendable”.
Can I change my registered agent online in Arkansas?
Yes, you can change your registered agent online in Arkansas by filing the necessary form and paying the required fee through the Secretary of State’s website.
How much does it cost to change my registered agent in Arkansas?
The filing fee to change your registered agent in Arkansas is $25.
How long does it take to change my registered agent in Arkansas?
The processing time for changing your registered agent in Arkansas can take up to two weeks.
Can I change my registered agent to any person or company I want in Arkansas?
No, your new registered agent in Arkansas must have a physical address within the state and agree to accept legal documents on your behalf.
Do I need to notify my current registered agent before I change to a new one in Arkansas?
Yes, you are required to notify your current registered agent before changing to a new one in Arkansas.
What happens if I don’t change my registered agent in Arkansas?
If you don’t have a registered agent or fail to change your agent in Arkansas when required, it can result in penalties, legal liabilities, and even the loss of your business’s legal protection.
Can my registered agent for Arkansas also be my company’s principal officer?
Yes, the registered agent for an Arkansas entity can also be the company’s principal officer.
How do I amend my articles of organization in Arkansas to reflect a new registered agent?
You need to file an amendment to your articles of organization with the Secretary of State to reflect the change in registered agent for Arkansas.
Can I change my registered agent in Arkansas multiple times a year?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Arkansas multiple times a year, but it is not recommended and may result in additional fees.
Can I change my registered agent in Arkansas myself, or do I need an attorney?
You can change your registered agent in Arkansas yourself with the appropriate paperwork and filings, but it’s always recommended to consult with an attorney beforehand.
Do I need to obtain consent from my new registered agent in Arkansas before making the change?
Yes, your new registered agent in Arkansas must give written consent and sign the Change of Registered Agent form before you can file it with the Secretary of State.
Do I have to provide a reason for changing my registered agent in Arkansas?
No, you do not have to provide a reason for changing your registered agent in Arkansas.
How do I check if my new registered agent in Arkansas has been officially registered?
You can search Arkansas Secretary of State’s entity database to ensure that your new agent is officially registered.
Will my company’s EIN change if I change my registered agent in Arkansas?
No, changing your company’s registered agent in Arkansas will not affect your EIN.
Can I change my registered office address at the same time I change the agent in Arkansas?
Yes, you can change your registered office address and your agent at the same time in Arkansas as part of the Change of Registered Agent form.
Can I file my Change of Registered Agent form in person at the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office?
Yes, you can file your Change of Registered Agent form in person at the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office during business hours.
What happens if I fail to notify my new registered agent in Arkansas of their appointment?
Your new registered agent in Arkansas may not be aware of their appointment, and will not be able to receive important legal documents on your behalf.
How do I know if my old registered agent in Arkansas has been successfully terminated?
You should receive a confirmation letter from the Arkansas Secretary of State indicating that your old registered agent has been terminated.
Can my new registered agent in Arkansas be an out-of-state company?
No, your registered agent in Arkansas must be a resident or a business entity with a physical location within the state.
Do I need to notify the Arkansas Secretary of State that I’ve terminated my previous registered agent?
No, the Secretary of State’s office will receive notification of the change when you file your new Change of Registered Agent form.
Are there any specific qualifications my new registered agent in Arkansas must have?
No specific qualifications are necessary, but your new registered agent in Arkansas must have a physical address within the state to accept legal documents on your behalf.
Is it possible to avoid changing my registered agent by hiring a commercial registered agent?
Yes, you can avoid the need to change your registered agent by hiring a commercial registered agent that specializes in this service.
How detailed should the consent of my new registered agent be in Arkansas?
The consent of your new registered agent in Arkansas must be in writing and signed, specifying that the agent has agreed to accept service of process, notices, and official correspondence on your behalf.
Will I need to provide any additional documents along with my Change of Registered Agent form in Arkansas?
No, you only need to file the Change of Registered Agent form along with the required fee to change your agent in Arkansas.
Does my new registered agent in Arkansas have to be present with me when I file my paperwork?
No, your new registered agent in Arkansas does not need to be present when you file your paperwork with the Secretary of State’s office.
Can I file my Change of Registered Agent form outside of regular business hours in Arkansas?
No, the Secretary of State’s office only processes paperwork during regular business hours.
Are there any restrictions on who can act as my registered agent in Arkansas?
Your registered agent in Arkansas cannot be the same as the entity’s own address, nor can the agent’s physical address be a PO box or rural route.

Also Read

Why Change Registered Agent in Arkansas is So Important

One of the key reasons why changing your registered agent in Arkansas is so important is to ensure that your business continues to operate smoothly. Your registered agent is your point of contact with the state, responsible for receiving important legal and tax documents on behalf of your business. If your registered agent is not available or cannot fulfill their duties for any reason, you could miss important deadlines or legal notices that could have serious consequences for your business.

Another reason why changing your registered agent is important is to maintain your privacy and protect your personal information. Your registered agent’s address is publicly available and listed on official documents related to your business. If your registered agent is someone who is no longer associated with your business or if you simply want to change to a more reliable and professional registered agent service, it is in your best interest to make that change promptly.

Furthermore, changing your registered agent can also help you avoid potential conflicts of interest or other issues that may arise if your registered agent is not impartial or truly representing your business’s best interests. By carefully choosing a registered agent who is reliable, trustworthy, and experienced in handling legal and operational matters, you can ensure that your business is in good hands.

It’s important to note that changing your registered agent in Arkansas is a relatively straightforward process. You simply need to file the appropriate paperwork with the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office and pay a nominal fee. However, the benefits of making this change far outweigh any inconvenience or cost involved in doing so.

In conclusion, while changing your registered agent may not be the most glamorous or exciting part of running a business, it is a necessary step to ensure that your business remains compliant with state laws and operates smoothly. By choosing a reputable and dependable registered agent service and promptly making any necessary changes, you can protect your business, maintain your privacy, and avoid potential legal and operational issues down the road. Don’t overlook the importance of your registered agent – it’s a small but critical role that should not be taken lightly.

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 Arkansas 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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